Home News Project Zomboid: How to Hotwire Cars

Project Zomboid: How to Hotwire Cars

Author : Victoria Feb 06,2025

Mastering Car Hotwiring in Project Zomboid: A Comprehensive Guide

Project Zomboid's expansive map encourages vehicle use, but acquiring cars often involves hotwiring. This guide details the process and skill requirements. While not requiring a top-tier build, meeting specific prerequisites is crucial.

Hotwiring Mechanics in Project Zomboid

Hotwiring allows driving without keys, provided the car has fuel and is in good condition. The key requirement is Level 1 Electrical and Level 2 Mechanics skills. Alternatively, choosing the Burglar profession at character creation bypasses these skill needs.

Hotwiring Steps:

  1. Enter the vehicle.
  2. Access the vehicle radial menu (default key: V).
  3. Select "Hotwire" and wait.

Once the process completes (handled automatically), press W to start the engine. Remember to check fuel levels beforehand.

Skill Level Progression:

For non-Burglar characters, skill levels increase through specific actions:

  • Electrical: Disassembling electronics (watches, radios, televisions).
  • Mechanics: Removing and reinstalling mechanical parts.

Books and magazines found in homes, shops, mailboxes, and storage sheds also provide skill XP. Server admins can use the "/addxp" command to directly grant skill XP. Appropriate tools (like screwdrivers) are necessary for dismantling and installation. Right-clicking vehicle parts and selecting "Vehicle Mechanics" allows part removal.

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