How to Siphon Gas in Project Zomboid

In Project Zomboid, gasoline isn’t just a luxury — it’s survival. Whether you're trying to hotwire a car and cruise out of a zombie-infested town or just keep your generator running during a stormy night, knowing how to siphon gas in Project Zomboid is an absolute must. Fortunately, you don’t need to be a real-life mechanic to pull it off — just follow these steps and avoid the undead while you’re at it.

Let’s break down the process of how to siphon gas in Project Zomboid step-by-step so you can fuel up and get moving.

Step-by-Step Guide on How to Siphon Gas in Projet Zomboid

Step 1: Get Close to a Car or Fuel Pump

First things first — you’ve got to find your fuel source. Head over to any car parked on the street, in a lot, or maybe abandoned in someone’s driveway. You can also walk up to a gas station pump if you’re looking for a more reliable fill-up.

Gas pumps are found at—you guessed it—gas stations. Just be careful. These areas tend to be crawling with zombies or already looted. But hey, it’s the apocalypse. No one said it was going to be easy.

Step 2: Open the Radial Menu

Standing next to a car or a gas pump? Hit the V key to open the radial menu. This is your go-to shortcut for all sorts of interactions in Project Zomboid—and it’s exactly where the siphon option will pop up.

Whether you're refueling, climbing through a window, or just checking what your options are, the radial menu keeps things smooth and fast.

Step 3: Select the "Siphon Gas" Option

Once that radial menu is open, scroll around and select “Siphon Gas” or “Siphon Gasoline.” If the option doesn’t appear, don’t panic. It just means the gas source is bone dry—yes, that tank is emptier than a zombie’s thoughts.

This is where players often ask, “Can you siphon gas in Project Zomboid even if the car looks okay?” Sadly, if there’s no gas inside, you’re out of luck. Time to find another ride or pump.

Step 4: Use an Empty Gas Can

You’ve picked the siphon option, but nothing’s happening? Odds are your gas can is already partially filled—or worse, full. Your character can’t magically fit extra gas into their pockets.

You’ll need an empty gas can in your inventory to start the siphoning process. If it’s not empty, transfer the existing fuel to a generator, car, or another container. Once your can is good to go, your character will automatically start transferring the fuel into it.

Step 5: Check for Gasoline

This step might seem obvious, but it’s a common mistake. If the “Siphon Gas” option isn’t even showing up on the radial menu, it likely means the tank is already empty. Not every car or fuel pump you find will have gasoline in it.
Check the fuel gauge if you're near a car or keep an eye out for the visual cues at gas stations. Some pumps may have already been drained dry by other survivors (or your past self).

Pro tip: Always carry a couple of gas cans and don’t rely on just one source. The apocalypse rewards the prepared.

Step 6: Check for Power Source

Trying to siphon gas directly from a gas station pump? Hold up—make sure there’s power.

That’s right: siphon gas Project Zomboid style means you need electricity if you want anything from a gas pump. If the power’s out (and let’s face it, it probably is), you’ll need to hook up a generator nearby. Without it, the pump is just a fancy decoration.

So, always check if there's juice running through the station before wasting your time (and possibly getting surrounded).

Step 7: Visit Gas Stations

If cars are failing you and pumps seem sketchy, make the gas station your next stop. Sure, it might be risky, but these spots usually have multiple pumps and sometimes even a storage area with extra fuel cans.

Visiting a station is the most dependable way to get gas in Project Zomboid—as long as you’re ready to defend yourself or sneak in quietly. Load up, stock up, and then bounce before things get too loud.

Note: Game Versions Might Change Things

A quick heads-up: depending on which version of the game you're playing, the steps for how to siphon gas Project Zomboid style might shift slightly. Always check patch notes or community guides if you notice something's off.

Mods can also affect mechanics, so keep that in mind if you're running a heavily modded save.

Wrapping Up

Now you’re fully equipped with the knowledge of how to siphon gas in Project Zomboid—no trial and error necessary. Just approach your target, hit that radial menu, and make sure your gas can is ready for action.

Whether you're stocking up for a long drive or trying to breathe life into a rustbucket in the woods, mastering the art of how to siphon gas in Project Zomboid will keep you cruising long after others are stuck on foot.

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