Your Car Needs Service in Tarkov Guide

2 min read 06-03-2025

Maintaining your vehicle in Escape from Tarkov is crucial for successful raids. A broken-down car can leave you stranded, vulnerable, and potentially lead to a premature end to your run. This guide will cover everything you need to know about servicing your car and avoiding costly breakdowns in the harsh world of Tarkov.

Understanding Vehicle Maintenance in Tarkov

Unlike real-world car maintenance, Tarkov's system is simplified but still requires attention. Your vehicle's condition is represented by a percentage, indicating its overall health. This percentage degrades with use, particularly during aggressive driving or if your vehicle sustains damage. When the percentage drops too low, your car will become unusable.

Key Indicators of Vehicle Degradation:

Decreasing Percentage: The most obvious indicator. Keep a close eye on this number in your inventory.
Performance Issues: You may experience decreased speed or handling as the vehicle deteriorates.
Visual Cues: While not always reliable, visual damage to your car can suggest underlying mechanical problems.

Servicing Your Vehicle

Servicing your car requires specific tools and items found in-game. Neglecting regular maintenance will almost certainly result in a breakdown at the worst possible time.

Necessary Items:

Repair Kits: These are essential for restoring your vehicle's health. Different repair kits have varying effectiveness, so choose wisely based on your vehicle's condition and the available resources.
Fuel: Keep your tank topped off to avoid running out of gas mid-raid. This is particularly important in longer raids or areas with limited fuel stations.
Spare Parts: While not directly used for "servicing", keeping spare parts in your stash can prevent a complete loss if your vehicle sustains significant damage.

The Repair Process:

Locate a Safe Area: Find a secure location to perform repairs. Avoid doing this in high-traffic areas or near enemy players.
Access Your Inventory: Open your inventory and select your vehicle.
Use Repair Kit: Select the appropriate repair kit and use it on your vehicle. The percentage will increase accordingly.

Preventing Vehicle Breakdowns

Proactive maintenance is key to avoiding frustrating breakdowns. Here are some tips:

Regular Inspection: Before each raid, check your vehicle's health.
Smart Driving: Avoid aggressive maneuvers and reckless driving that can quickly damage your vehicle.
Strategic Use: Consider the distance and the terrain before using your vehicle. Short trips are less likely to cause issues.
Carry Spares: Always carry extra repair kits and fuel to address any issues that may arise.

Conclusion

Maintaining your vehicle in Escape from Tarkov is a crucial aspect of successful gameplay. By following these guidelines and practicing preventative maintenance, you can avoid costly breakdowns and increase your chances of survival. Remember, a well-maintained vehicle is an invaluable asset in the unforgiving world of Tarkov.