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Project Zomboid: How to Hotwire Cars

by Alexis Jan 08,2025

In the sprawling world of Project Zomboid, traversing the map on foot is a daunting task. Fortunately, many vehicles remain functional, and if keys are elusive, hotwiring offers a solution. This guide details how to hotwire a car and level up the necessary skills.

Hotwiring in Project Zomboid is surprisingly straightforward, requiring minimal effort once prerequisites are met.

Hotwiring Requirements:

To hotwire a vehicle, you need either:

  • Level 1 Electrical and Level 2 Mechanics skills.
  • The Burglar occupation selected at character creation.

Hotwiring Steps:

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

Once completed, press W to start the engine. Remember, fuel is essential!

Skill Progression:

For those not starting as a Burglar, increase Electrical and Mechanics skills through:

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

Books and magazines found in homes and businesses also provide skill boosts. Administrators on Project Zomboid servers can use the "/addxp" command to grant players skill experience points. Remember to use the appropriate tools (like a screwdriver) for dismantling and repairs. Right-clicking vehicle parts and selecting "Vehicle Mechanics" allows for part removal.