Project Zomboid: How to Hotwire Cars

Mastering Car Hotwiring in Project Zomboid: A Comprehensive Guide

Project Zomboid's expansive map makes traversing on foot a daunting task. Fortunately, many vehicles remain functional, and if keys are elusive, hotwiring offers a solution. This guide details the process and requirements.

Hotwiring Mechanics in Project Zomboid

Successfully hotwiring a car grants access to driving as long as fuel and vehicle condition permit, regardless of possessing the correct keys. However, prerequisites exist: attain at least Level 1 Electrical and Level 2 Mechanics skills. Alternatively, selecting the Burglar profession during character creation bypasses these skill requirements.

Hotwiring Steps:

1. Enter the vehicle.
2. Access the vehicle's radial menu (default key: V).
3. Choose the "Hotwire" option and await completion.

Upon fulfilling the prerequisites, follow these steps on any operable vehicle. Hotwiring is automated; once finished, press W to start the engine. Remember, fuel levels vary, so securing gasoline is advisable.

Skill Progression: Electrical and Mechanics

For non-Burglar characters, skill development involves specific in-game actions:

• Electrical: Dismantle electronics (watches, radios, televisions).
• Mechanics: Remove and reinstall mechanical parts.

Books and magazines also boost skill levels. These are often found in homes, shops, mailboxes, sheds, and on bookshelves. Server admins can utilize the "/addxp" command to directly award skill XP. Appropriate tools (screwdrivers, etc.) are necessary for dismantling and installation. Right-clicking vehicle parts and selecting "Vehicle Mechanics" allows part removal.