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How to Siphon Gas in Project Zomboid

In this article, we will describe in detail how to siphon gasoline from a car in Project Zomboid — and not without reason, as this is one of the most valuable skills at every stage of the game. At the beginning, gasoline may seem like one of the more easily accessible resources, but as time goes on, obtaining it becomes increasingly difficult. After the power shuts off, gas stations will stop working, and using them again will require a generator. It is at this point that every single drop of this valuable resource begins to matter.

Steps to Siphon Gas in Project Zomboid

The entire process requires only a few simple steps:

1. Obtain an Empty Gas Can

The very first and absolutely essential step is obtaining an Empty Gas Can. Project Zomboid does not allow any form of improvisation when it comes to siphoning fuel — gasoline cannot be drained into water bottles, jars, or any other random containers. If your character does not have an Empty Gas Can in their inventory, the Siphon Gas option will not appear at all.

2. Find a Vehicle That Has Gas in the Tank

The next step is locating a vehicle that actually contains gasoline. This can be slightly tricky, as not every car you encounter in the game world will have fuel in its tank. Many abandoned vehicles are completely empty, especially wrecks found along roads and highways. Because of this, players often need to check multiple cars before finding one that can be used as a fuel source.

3. Stand Close Enough to the Vehicle

In order to siphon gas, your character must stand directly next to the vehicle. Being a few tiles away or standing at the wrong angle may prevent the interaction from working. The game requires the action to be performed from close range, which also increases the risk involved. Before starting the process, it is important to make sure there are no zombies nearby, as being caught off guard can quickly lead to serious trouble.

4. Open the Interaction Menu

Once you are positioned correctly, click V button to open the interaction menu. This menu displays all available actions related to the car, such as entering the vehicle, inspecting it, or interacting with its fuel system.

project zomboid siphon gasoline

5. Siphon Gasoline

If your character has an empty gas can and the vehicle contains fuel, the Siphon Gasoline option will appear in the interaction menu. Selecting it will begin the fuel-draining process. This action takes several seconds to complete, during which your character cannot defend themselves or react to threats.

Where to Find Gas Can in Project Zomboid

Gas Can can be found in locations related to vehicles and technical facilities, with one of the most common sources being car trunks, where the canister has a relatively high chance of appearing as random loot. It is worth regularly checking abandoned vehicles, even if they are not suitable for driving. Another frequent location includes garages, tool sheds, workshops, and gas stations, where gas cans may be found on shelves, racks, or inside containers. It is also worth searching warehouses and industrial buildings.

project zomboid empty gas can

If you want to survive a shared zombie adventure together with your friends, rent a Project Zomboid server today!