GTA 6 Introduces Nuanced Vehicle Theft Mechanics and Lockpicking Tools

Stealing cars will serve as a key part of player progress around Leonida and Vice City in GTA 6. Unlike previous entries in the series that relied on vehicles being conveniently unlocked or instantly smashing a fist through the glass, the process in GTA 6 features a more nuanced approach, according to details shared by Rockstar Games.

Footage from the Extended Look reveals that approaching a viable vehicle prompts a selection of choices for entering and stealing the car. Players can choose to use a slim jim, a thin strip of metal lockout tool used to slide in and non-destructively pop open the lock. Alternatively, players can simply smash the window to gain quick access, though this method is presumed to draw more attention and increase the likelihood of acquiring a wanted level. Using the slim jim avoids breaking the glass to remain inconspicuous, but it takes longer and initiates a simple lockpicking minigame. During this minigame, players use the right stick to push toward a curved bar until it fills up completely to open the door. Speculation suggests higher-end vehicles may feature smaller or moving target bars to make the process more difficult, while character development could potentially make lockpicking easier the more cars a player steals this way.

Rockstar has stated that players cannot magically hotwire every car and must acquire specific tools as they progress through the game to access more vehicles. Traditional carjacking of passing drivers remains an option to take control of their vehicles. Additionally, players can utilize a phone app to gather details on targeted cars, providing information on what is needed to steal them, their resale value, and the cost of registering them as personal vehicles.