%USERPROFILE%\Documents\My Games\DiRT2\savegame\
But note: Games for Windows Live (GFWL) saves are tied to your profile – a 100% save from another user often won’t work without GFWL remover mods (like XLiveLess). Most modern PC players use the Steam or a cracked version to avoid GFWL issues.
To achieve a 100% completion status in Colin McRae: DiRT 2 on PC without playing through the entire career, you can use a community-shared save game file. However, because the game originally relied on Games for Windows Live (GFWL), simply moving files is often not enough; you must also handle the encryption linked to your specific GFWL profile. 📂 Save Game Data Location
Before installing a new save, locate your existing files to back them up. The default paths are: Windows: %USERPROFILE%\Documents\My Games\DiRT2\savegame\.
macOS: $HOME/Library/Application Support/Feral Interactive/DiRT 2/Savegame.
Steam (Linux/Proton):
💡 Pro Tip: You also need to back up your XLive profile located at %LOCALAPPDATA%\Microsoft\XLive\, as your save is tied to this unique ID. ⚙️ How to Install a 100% Save Game
Since GFWL is largely defunct, the most reliable way to use a 100% save is by using a GFWL bypass (XLiveLess).
Download a 100% Save: Look for verified files on community hubs like Speedrun.com or fan forums.
Install XLiveLess: Download an xlive.dll replacement file and place it in your main game folder (where dirt2_game.exe is located). %USERPROFILE%\Documents\My Games\DiRT2\savegame\
Place the Save: Copy the 100% save files into the Documents\My Games\DiRT2\savegame folder.
Rename (Optional): Some bypasses require you to edit an xlive.ini file to match the username used in the save file (e.g., changing "Player1" to the name in the downloaded save). 🔓 What a 100% Save Unlocks
A complete save file provides immediate access to all content that otherwise requires significant playtime: All Cars: Unlocks legendary vehicles like the Subaru Impreza WRX STi (1995) from the Colin McRae Challenge and the Ford RS200 Evolution .
All Tracks: Every location across Asia, Europe, Africa, and North America becomes available in all modes. But note: Games for Windows Live (GFWL) saves
World Tour & X-Games: Complete access to high-tier stadium events and championship series. 🛠️ Common Fixes for Windows 10/11
If you encounter crashes or issues while trying to load a save: Colin McRae: DiRT 2 - PCGamingWiki PCGW
DiRT 2 on PC originally used Games for Windows Live, which tied saves to your profile ID. Many 100% saves online are for cracked versions (GFWL removed). If you own the legitimate Steam version, Steam replaced GFWL with its own system, so most GFWL saves won’t work. Look specifically for “Steam 100% save” or use a GFWL disabler mod first.
The ethics of save game swapping in single-player games are subjective. In a modern context, many consider it preservation, not cheating.
Rename the downloaded folder (the one with the long number) to match your GFWL ID number. Then, copy this renamed folder into C:\Users\[UserName]\Documents\My Games\DiRT2\savegame\