In Used Cars Simulator by DreamWay Games, the shovel is a utility tool used to dig up buried scrap metal and hidden quest items. To use the shovel, you must first scan the ground with a metal detector to reveal a red ❌ marker, then dig directly on the marker to retrieve the buried object.
Where to Get the Shovel
Before you can dig up scrap or quest items, you need to purchase the proper equipment in town:
- Location: The Hardware Store.
- Vendor: The hardware store seller NPC (introduced in developer update logs).
- Required Gear: Purchase both the shovel and the metal detector. The hardware store also supplies other essential tools, such as angle grinders and replacement hammers.
Once bought, the shovel is stored in your inventory and can be equipped when working out in the field.
Step-by-Step: How to Use the Shovel
Digging requires pairing the shovel with a metal detector to locate underground targets.
- Equip the Metal Detector: Head out to open exploration areas, such as the desert or terrain around the map.
- Scan the Ground: Sweep the terrain with the metal detector until it signals that an object is nearby.
- Locate the Red Marker: Once the metal detector pinpoints the exact spot, a red ❌ appears on the ground showing where the scrap is buried.
- Equip the Shovel: Switch to your shovel from your inventory.
- Dig Up the Target: Interact with the red ❌ on the ground using your shovel to dig up the buried scrap or quest package.
- Collect or Haul the Items: Pick up the excavated scrap to trade for cash or store quest items in vehicles supported for cargo transport, such as the D-1CK, Burrito Bison, or Gravel Titan.
What Is the Shovel Used For?
The shovel serves two main gameplay purposes in Used Cars Simulator:
1. Digging Up Scrap for Cash
Wandering the desert with a metal detector and shovel lets you harvest underground scrap metal. Scrap can be traded as part of your garage economy, helping you fund car repairs, parts, and workshop upgrades.
2. Item Recovery Side Quests
Official Update #29 introduced item-hunting side quests offered by random NPCs scattered across the map. These NPCs task you with retrieving specific hidden items that can only be located using a metal detector and excavated with a shovel. Completing these jobs rewards extra cash and EXP.
Tool Durability and Troubleshooting
- Tool Wear: According to developer statements on the Steam forums, certain hand tools wear out with repeated use. If an equipped tool disappears from your inventory after using it, it may have broken from wear, requiring you to buy a replacement from the hardware store seller.
- Inventory Switching: Ensure your desired tool is visibly selected and active in your hand before approaching the dig site. If your tool does not interact with the terrain, verify that you are standing directly over an active red ❌ revealed by the metal detector.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can you dig anywhere with the shovel?
No. The shovel only digs up items at specific buried locations marked by a red ❌ after you have successfully scanned the ground with a metal detector.
Where can I buy a replacement shovel if mine goes missing?
You can purchase replacement shovels and other tools directly from the hardware store seller NPC at the hardware store.
Which vehicles can transport items dug up during quests?
As of Update #29, items can be transported using specific vehicles with cargo utility, including the D-1CK, Burrito Bison, and Gravel Titan.
