Do I need Content Manager for drift competitions?

Almost always. Most competitions require it for installing content, joining servers and wheel settings.

Is Content Manager free?

There's a free Lite version that covers what most drivers need, and a full version for supporters with extra features.

What is Custom Shaders Patch?

An extension for Assetto Corsa that adds features to the game engine. Many drift cars and tracks rely on it, and it adds force feedback options.

Which CSP version should I use?

The one your competition specifies. Using the same version as everyone else avoids visual and content problems on event day.

Content Manager and CSP Setup for Assetto Corsa Drifting

Almost every drift competition expects Content Manager and Custom Shaders Patch. Here is what each one does and how to set them up for drifting.

Key takeaway

Install Content Manager, add Custom Shaders Patch through it, install content the same way everyone else does, and use the versions your competition asks for.

What each tool does

Tool	What it is	Why drifters need it
Content Manager	A community launcher that replaces Assetto Corsa's original launcher.	Installs cars and tracks, joins servers, and holds the wheel and FFB settings drifters use.
Custom Shaders Patch (CSP)	An extension that adds features to the game engine.	Many drift cars and tracks rely on it for lights, visuals and extra features, and it adds FFB options.

Content Manager comes in a free Lite version, with a full version for supporters that adds extra features. The Lite version is enough to start.

Step 1: Install Content Manager

Download Content Manager from its official page.
Run it and point it to your Assetto Corsa folder when asked.
From now on, launch the game through Content Manager instead of the original launcher.

Step 2: Add Custom Shaders Patch

In Content Manager, open Settings, then Custom Shaders Patch.
Install the patch from there; Content Manager handles the files.
If your competition names a specific CSP version, install that one, so everyone's cars and tracks look and behave the same.

Newer isn't always better for competition: use the CSP version your event asks for, especially on event day.

Step 3: Install cars and tracks

Content Manager can install most mods by dragging the downloaded archive onto its window. For competition content:

Use the exact files the organizer provides, so checksums match the server.
Don't edit car or track data; modified files can stop you joining.
Install event content early and test it in practice.

Some competitions provide their own launcher or tool that installs event content for you; EFVD's launcher, for example, prepares event files and the Start Lights app.

Step 4: Set up your wheel

Content Manager's Controls section holds your wheel binding and force feedback settings, including soft lock, gyro effect and damping. Our guide to wheel and force feedback settings for drifting walks through each one.

Step 5: Join a server

Open the Online tab in Content Manager.
Search for the server name from your event announcement, or use the direct link or address you were given.
If content is missing, Content Manager shows it; install the event's files before joining.
Enter the server password if the event uses one.

Common problems

Problem	Things to try
"Checksum" error joining a server	Reinstall the exact car or track files from the organizer.
Car lights or visuals missing	Install CSP, or the CSP version the content needs.
Car not in the list	Check it installed into the right Assetto Corsa folder; reinstall via drag and drop.
Wheel feels wrong in one car	Enable soft lock and auto-adjusted steering scale in Controls.

Frequently asked questions

Do I need Content Manager for drift competitions?: Almost always. Most competitions require it for installing content, joining servers and wheel settings.
Is Content Manager free?: There's a free Lite version that covers what most drivers need, and a full version for supporters with extra features.
What is Custom Shaders Patch?: An extension for Assetto Corsa that adds features to the game engine. Many drift cars and tracks rely on it, and it adds force feedback options.
Which CSP version should I use?: The one your competition specifies. Using the same version as everyone else avoids visual and content problems on event day.

Content Manager and CSP setup for drifting