GTA San Andreas Wanted Level Guide: How to Escape the Cops Like a Pro

In San Andreas, it doesn’t take much to get the cops on your back. Maybe you stole a car in broad daylight, or maybe you just felt like causing a little chaos. Whatever the case, once those stars pop up, the game shifts. You’re no longer cruising. You’re basically running most of the time.

The cops in this game aren’t soft either. They’ll ram you off the road, surround you in alleys, and light you up if they catch a chance. And if you let the stars stack up to five stars? You are going to see SWAT vans, helicopters, and even the army if you really go wild. So, if you want to escape this fate, you need to know how the system works. That is why we’ll walk you through the smartest ways to survive police chases in San Andreas.

How does the Wanted Level System Works in GTA: San Andreas?

 

 

First thing to get straight: the stars matter. If it is one star, then it is a chill scene. Cops will follow you a bit, maybe shout, maybe take a shot if you get too close. But this is easily avoidable. However, once you hit two or three stars, it’s real. Police cars double up. They start ramming. They’ll chase you down alleys and won’t back off easily. By five, helicopters are flying above, and at six, you’re not running from cops anymore, you’re running from the military.

Low Wanted Level is Easily Avoidable

One or two stars? It is easy to lose. If you're on foot, duck into a corner or alley and stay still. Out of their line of sight for a few seconds, and you’re good. Otherwise, you can also switch the vehicle. Cops will often lose track if you’re slick about it.

Mid-Level Wanted Level (3–4 Stars)

Once you’re at three stars, it's not just about running. You need a strategy. Cops block roads. SWAT vans show up. This is where map knowledge helps. For this, you can take side streets. Sometimes using the highway can also work to your advantage. If you're near water, you can also dive in an swim under a bridge. This will break the line of sight. Also, try not to stay on foot for long, cars are your best bet for staying ahead.

Also, don't waste time trying to shoot every cop. This is the mistake most players make. But you should know that the more you fight them, the more heat you build.

Five Star Wanted Level? Use Cheat Code

If wanted level reaches five or six stars. Now, you will be in full-blown war. The army might take over, and in this case, hiding casually won't work, to be honest.

So, as per our advice, If you’re not looking for a long chase and just want to clear the heat quickly, there’s always the option of using a classic cheat code. Typing TURNDOWNTHEHEAT reduces your wanted level by one star instantly. It’s a simple way. Yes, that adrenaline rush of escaping won't be there, but at least you

Getting chased in GTA: San Andreas is part of the fun. It adds tension, thrill, and sometimes pure madness. So next time those stars light up? Don't panic. Just follow the above guide, and then you are all set.