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Breaking: Project Zomboid Guide to Surviving Unveils Car Hotwiring Trick

by Liam Feb 12,2025

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 explains how to hotwire a car in Project Zomboid.

Hotwiring is simpler than it sounds, often requiring just a few button presses. However, prerequisites must be met. While not requiring a top-tier character build, certain skills are necessary.

Hotwiring Mechanics in Project Zomboid

Successfully hotwiring allows driving as long as fuel and vehicle condition permit, even without keys. The requirement is Level 1 Electrical and Level 2 Mechanics skills. Alternatively, choosing 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.

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

Leveling Electrical and Mechanical Skills:

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 also provide skill boosts, found in homes, businesses, mailboxes, sheds, and bookshelves. Project Zomboid server admins can use the "/addxp" command to directly grant skill XP. A screwdriver or suitable tool is needed for dismantling/installation. Vehicle parts are accessed by right-clicking and selecting "Vehicle Mechanics."