  Experimental searches for vector-like quarks have until now only considered
their decays into Standard Model particles. However, various new physics
scenarios predict additional scalars, so that these vector-like quarks can
decay to new channels. These new channels reduce the branching ratios into
Standard Model final states, significantly affecting current mass bounds. In
this article, we quantitatively assess the relevance and observability of
single and pair production processes of vector-like quarks, followed by decays
into both standard and exotic final states. We highlight the importance of
large widths and the relative interaction strengths with Standard Model
particles and new scalars. Then, we review the post-Moriond 2024 status of
these models in light of available LHC data and discuss potential future
strategies to enhance the scope of vector-like quark searches.
