How to Siphon Gas in Project Zomboid
Fuel is the lifeblood of survival in Project Zomboid. Whether you need to keep your getaway car running or power your generator to keep the frozen food fresh, knowing how to siphon gas is an essential skill.
Required Items
Depending on your game version, the requirements differ slightly:
Build 41 (Stable)
- Empty Gas Can: The standard container for fuel.
- Note: Some throwables/bottles may work in modded servers, but the Red Gas Can is the gold standard.
Build 42 (Beta/Future)
- Empty Gas Can (or specific liquid containers)
- Rubber Hose: A new requirement added in Build 42. You cannot siphon without it.
Source 1: Siphoning from Other Cars
Abandoned vehicles often have fuel left in their tanks. This is the most common way to get gas early game.
- Equip your Gas Can: Have it in your main inventory (not inside a backpack).
- Approach the Vehicle: Walk up to a car. You typically do not need to be on the specific side of the fuel cap, but being close helps.
- Open the Radial Menu: Hold
Vto bring up the vehicle menu. - Select "Siphon Gas":
- If the option is greyed out or missing:
- The car might be empty (check dashboard content).
- You might not have an empty container.
- (Build 42) You might be missing the Rubber Hose.
- If the option is greyed out or missing:
- Wait: Your character will perform the action. If interrupted by a zombie, the action cancels.
Source 2: Siphoning from Gas Pumps
Gas stations (like the specialized ones in Muldraugh, Rosewood, etc.) have functionally infinite fuel, but getting it out requires power.
Scenario A: Power is Still On
If you are in the first few weeks (0-30 days default) and the grid is active:
- Drive your car next to the pump (align the fuel cap side).
- Right-click the vehicle -> "Refuel".
- OR: Stand next to the pump with a Gas Can -> Right-click Pump -> "Take Fuel".
Scenario B: Power is Shut Off
Once the electricity shuts off, pumps stop working. You must restore power locally.
- Find a Generator: Search garages and sheds.
- Find the Manual: "How to Use Generators" magazine (unless you are an Electrician).
- Connect Generator: Place it within 20 tiles of the gas pumps. Right-click -> "Connect Generator" (Requires Generator knowledge).
- Fuel & Turn On: Add a little gas to the generator itself, turn it on.
- Siphon: The pumps are now powered. You can fill your cans or cars indefinitely.
Troubleshooting
| Issue | Possible Cause | Solution |
|---|---|---|
| "Siphon Gas" option missing | Car is empty | Check vehicle mechanics or dashboard to confirm fuel level. |
| "Siphon Gas" option missing | No container | Ensure you have an Empty Gas Can in your main inventory (not backpack). |
| Action cancels immediately | Moving/Panic | Stand still. Verify no zombies are attacking you. |
| Pump won't dispense | No Power | Check if the lights work. If not, connect a Generator. |
FAQ
Q: Can I siphon into a water bottle?
A: In standard Build 41, usually no, you need a Gas Can. In Build 42, the system allows more fluid containers, but Gas Cans are most efficient.
Q: Where do I find Gas Cans?
A: Check Garages, Gas Station shelves, and Car Trunks. They are somewhat rare, so prioritize finding one early.
Q: Does the gas in pumps ever run out?
A: Technically yes, but the amount is massive (tens of thousands of units). In single-player, you will never drain a station. In multiplayer, it's possible but takes a long time.
Related Guides
- How to Hotwire Cars
- Sandbox Settings Guide (Adjust Fuel Consumption)