Project Zomboid: How to Hotwire Cars

In the sprawling world of Project Zomboid, traversing the map on foot is a monumental task, best left for challenge runs. Fortunately, many vehicles remain functional, and if keys are elusive, hotwiring offers a convenient solution.

Hotwiring is surprisingly straightforward, often requiring just a few button presses. However, prerequisites exist before you can commandeer a car. While not demanding a top-tier Project Zomboid character build, these requirements are crucial:

Hotwiring Mechanics in Project Zomboid

Successfully hotwiring a car grants temporary use, provided fuel and vehicle condition remain adequate, bypassing the need for keys. To hotwire, you need at least Level 1 Electrical and Level 2 Mechanics skills. Alternatively, selecting the Burglar profession during character creation bypasses these skill requirements.

How to Hotwire a Car:

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

Once the prerequisites are met, these steps work on any operable vehicle. Hotwiring is automated; after completion, press W to start the engine. Remember, fuel levels vary, so securing gasoline is advisable.

Leveling Up Electrical and Mechanical Skills:

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

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

Books and magazines also boost skills. Check mailboxes, sheds, and bookshelves during looting. Project Zomboid server admins can directly grant skill XP using the "/addxp" command (syntax displayed in the chat box).

Appropriate tools (like screwdrivers) are necessary for disassembly and installation. Right-click vehicle parts and select "Vehicle Mechanics" to remove them.