After spending over 60 hours navigating the hazards of the Olympic Exclusion Zone in Pacific Drive, we’ve compiled 16 advanced tips to help you survive and upgrade your car effectively. From resource management to handling dangerous anomalies, these strategies will keep you on the road and out of danger.

1. Efficient Use of the Matter Deconstructor

The Matter Deconstructor isn’t just for junk. You can throw in items like excess paint or decals to extract useful resources such as chemicals, duct tape, and cloth. This is a reliable way to convert surplus items into more valuable materials needed for crafting.

2. Mastering the Handy Vac

The Handy Vac is a game-changer for quickly collecting resources. Use it to suck up Marsh Eggs and sodium vapor light bulbs without having to destroy them. This tool is especially useful when you need large quantities of specific items.

3. Harvesting Theros Sap Crystals Efficiently

Theros Sap Crystals are vital for engine upgrades. Look for sap compressors, which drop clusters of these crystals. Prioritize collecting them whenever possible, as you’ll need around 42 to build major components.

4. Salvaging Abandoned Squires

Scan abandoned Squires (old cop cars) for a chance to collect lead plating and Theros Sap Crystals. Use the Scrapper or the Liberator to dismantle armored panels for additional resources.

5. Dealing with Tourists

Tourists are dangerous but can be manipulated. Use flares to lure them away or to set off chain reactions. Destroying them often yields valuable resources like Theros Sap Crystals.

6. The Power of the Flare Gun

Equip a flare gun for more accurate shots at enemies like Tourists. It’s a reliable way to clear paths and gather resources without risking close encounters.

7. Strategic Use of Transmuters

Transmuters can convert materials like armor plating into plastic, but their usefulness is situational. Keep this option in mind for emergencies when you’re short on specific materials.

8. Unlocking the Ark Duo for Healing

The Ark Duo is a powerful healing option when sitting in your car, but it drains your battery rapidly. Keep canned food in your inventory for a more resource-efficient way to heal between runs.

9. Friendly Dumpsters at Gas Stations

Always stop at gas stations to loot friendly dumpsters, which can yield a surprising amount of resources. Recheck them a few times until they’re empty.

10. Collecting Tree Candies for Acid Resistance

Tree Candies are found on Twisted Embers and can be vacuumed up to craft acid-resistant gear like raincoats. Prioritize these items if you frequently encounter acid rain.

11. Investing in the Investigator Module

Quirks can be a hassle without the Investigator Module. This upgrade helps you identify and manage vehicle quirks efficiently, making your runs smoother.

12. Resource Radar: A Must-Have

Craft a Resource Radar to highlight valuable items on your map. This device attaches to the roof rack and reveals the locations of essential resources, making it easier to plan your routes.

13. The Power of the Liberator

The Liberator lets you remove intact parts from vehicles, bypassing the need for research. Focus on armored panels from abandoned Squires to boost your car’s defenses early.

14. Utilizing the Route Planner

Scan zones before entering to identify hazards like dense acid or unstable anchors. Knowing what lies ahead can save you from costly mistakes.

15. Building the Anchor Radar

Anchor Obfuscation can make finding anchors a nightmare. Invest in an Anchor Radar to pinpoint their locations quickly, saving time and reducing risk.

16. Upgrading Dismantling Tools

Advanced dismantling tools like the Plasma Scrapper and Thermal Vacuum yield more resources per item. Invest in these upgrades as soon as you can to boost your crafting potential.

Conclusion

These advanced tips will help you make the most of your runs and keep your station wagon in top shape. Master these strategies, and the Olympic Exclusion Zone will become a little less terrifying.