Project Zomboid: How to Hotwire Cars

Mastering Car Hotwiring in Project Zomboid: A Comprehensive Guide

Project Zomboid's expansive map encourages vehicle use for efficient traversal. While walking is possible, it's impractical. Fortunately, hotwiring provides a solution for acquiring and operating vehicles even without keys. This guide details the process and skill requirements.

Hotwiring Mechanics in Project Zomboid

Successfully hotwiring a car allows operation as long as fuel and vehicle condition permit, bypassing the need for keys. However, Level 1 Electrical and Level 2 Mechanics skills are prerequisites. Alternatively, selecting the Burglar profession during character creation negates these skill requirements.

Hotwiring a Vehicle: A Step-by-Step Guide

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

After meeting the skill requirements, follow these steps on any operable vehicle. Hotwiring is automated; once finished, press W to start the engine. Remember to check fuel levels beforehand.

Skill Progression: Electrical and Mechanics

For non-Burglar characters, skill levels are increased through in-game activities:

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

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