9.4 Fueling & Driving
Vehicles are a game-changer in DayZ, offering faster travel and increased cargo capacity. However, they are useless without fuel. Mastering the art of fueling and driving your vehicle is essential for efficient transportation across Chernarus.
Finding a working vehicle is only half the battle. To truly benefit from its speed and utility, you need to keep it topped up with fuel and understand its handling. This guide covers everything you need to know about keeping your wheels turning.
Finding Fuel:
- Gas Cans: The most common way to transport fuel. Look for red or blue gas cans in garages, sheds, industrial areas, and gas stations.
- Gas Stations: These locations often have pumps that can be used to refuel vehicles directly if you have an empty container or if the vehicle has an integrated tank.
- Vehicle Fuel Tanks: Some vehicles have a built-in fuel tank that can be filled directly from a gas station pump.
Fueling Your Vehicle:
- Find a Gas Can: If you don't have one, find an empty gas can.
- Fill the Gas Can: Go to a gas station pump. Interact with the pump to fill your gas can. This will fill the can and consume fuel from the station.
- Refuel the Vehicle: Approach your vehicle. Open your inventory, drag the filled gas can onto the vehicle, and select the 'Refuel' option.
- Direct Refueling: If your vehicle has an accessible fuel tank and you are at a gas station, you can often refuel directly without a gas can.
Vehicle Fuel Consumption:
Different vehicles consume fuel at different rates. Larger, more powerful vehicles tend to use more fuel. Driving at high speeds and frequent acceleration/braking will also increase consumption.
Driving Mechanics:
- Engine Start/Stop: Use the End key to start or stop the engine.
- Gear Shifting: Use Page Up and Page Down to shift gears (automatic transmissions simplify this).
- Acceleration/Braking: Use W to accelerate and S to brake.
- Steering: Use A and D for left and right steering.
- Handbrake: Press Spacebar for the handbrake. Useful for sharp turns or stopping quickly.
Vehicle Maintenance:
Vehicles also require maintenance:
- Spark Plugs: Essential for the engine to start. Found in garages and industrial areas.
- Car Batteries: Required for the electrical system, including lights and ition. Found in garages and industrial areas.
- Radiators: Prevent engine overheating. Found in garages and industrial areas.
- Wheels: Vehicles need four wheels. They can be damaged or destroyed, rendering the vehicle immobile.
Tips for Driving:
- Plan Your Route: Know where you're going and ensure you have enough fuel.
- Avoid Off-Roading (Unless Necessary): Rough terrain can damage your vehicle and slow you down sificantly.
- Listen for Engine Sounds: Unusual noises can indicate damage or impending failure.
- Park Safely: Park your vehicle in a hidden or defensible location when not in use.
Tip: Always carry at least one spare gas can, even if your vehicle is full. You never know when you might need to refuel on the go or help out a teammate.