Project Zomboid: How to Hotwire Cars

Mastering Vehicle Hotwiring in Project Zomboid: A Comprehensive Guide

Project Zomboid's expansive map encourages exploration, but traversing its vastness on foot is impractical. Fortunately, many vehicles remain functional, and hotwiring provides a solution when keys are unavailable. This guide details the process and skill requirements for successfully hotwiring cars.

Hotwiring Mechanics in Project Zomboid

Hotwiring allows you to operate a vehicle indefinitely, provided it has fuel and is in good condition, bypassing the need for keys. However, you must meet specific prerequisites: Level 1 Electrical and Level 2 Mechanics skills are required. Alternatively, choosing the Burglar profession at character creation eliminates this skill requirement.

Hotwiring Steps:

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

Upon meeting the prerequisites, follow these steps for any operable vehicle. The hotwiring process 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: Dismantle electronics (watches, radios, televisions).
• Mechanics: Remove and reinstall mechanical parts.

Books and magazines found in homes and businesses (mailboxes, sheds, bookshelves) also provide skill boosts. Server administrators 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 for part removal.