The expansive world of Project Zomboid offers players a vast map to explore, yet traversing it on foot can be daunting unless you're up for a challenge. Fortunately, the game features numerous functional cars, and even without keys, players can hotwire them for a quick escape or a leisurely drive. Hotwiring a car is simpler than it might seem, requiring just a few button clicks, but there are specific prerequisites you need to fulfill before you start collecting vehicles. While you don't need the best build to accomplish this, keep these requirements in mind before you start your vehicular adventures.
How Does Hotwiring Work in Project Zomboid?
Successfully hotwiring a car allows you to drive it as long as it has fuel and remains in good condition, even without the keys. To hotwire, you must achieve at least Level 1 in Electrical and Level 2 in Mechanics skills. Alternatively, choosing the Burglar occupation during character creation bypasses these skill requirements, enabling immediate hotwiring.
How to Hotwire a Car in Project Zomboid
- Enter the vehicle.
- Open the vehicle radial menu (default key is V).
- Select the Hotwire option and wait for a few seconds.
Once your character meets the skill or occupation criteria, follow these steps for any operable vehicle. The hotwiring process is automatic; upon completion, press W to start the engine. Remember, not all vehicles come with fuel, so ensure you have some gas ready in Project Zomboid.
How to Level Electrical and Mechanical Skills
For those who prefer not to start as a Burglar, you can manually increase your Electrical and Mechanical skills through specific in-game activities. To gain XP for these skills:
- Electrical: Dismantle electronics such as digital watches, radios, and televisions.
- Mechanics: Remove and reinstall mechanical parts.
Reading books and magazines also boosts your skill levels. These items can be found while exploring homes and commercial spaces. Check mailboxes, storage sheds, and bookshelves for readable materials during your looting expeditions. If you're an admin hosting a Project Zomboid server, you can directly grant skill XP to players using the "/addxp" command and following the on-screen syntax in the chat box.
For dismantling or installing, you'll need a screwdriver or a suitable tool. To work on a vehicle, right-click its parts and select the Vehicle Mechanics option.
