• uk
  • News Digest, March

    The Ukrainian all-terrain vehicle will appear in a Hollywood action movie

    The premiere of the fourth part of the blockbuster “Bad Boys” is scheduled for June 2024. But footage from the action comedy has already been published online. On one of them is a Ukrainian car “Sherp”.

    Low cab and huge wheels – the all-terrain vehicle looks more like a boat than a car. Being an auto-amphibian, it easily overcomes swamps and rocky off-roads. Designed for oilmen, geologists, rescuers and hunters, fishermen.

    “Sherp” has been produced at the Kyiv enterprise since 2012. And three years later, the car was presented at a car exhibition. In 2017, the manufacturer opened a branch in Canada.

    “Sherp” first appeared on the screens four years ago – in a commercial with Kanye West. And now it’s the turn of the cinema.

    Luxury tax: which of the car owners will have to pay

    The press service of the Ministry of Economy has published a list of car models subject to the luxury tax in 2024. The list includes 184 models. Among them: Aston Martin, Audi, Bentley, BMW, Cadillac, Jaguar, Land Rover, Lexus, Maserati, Mercedes-Benz, Porsche, Rivian, Tesla.

    Neither the volume of the engine nor the brand nor the type of fuel is taken into account when taxing, only the year of manufacturing and the average value on the market. Luxury tax is paid for cars under 5 years old and worth more than 375 minimum wages (or more than UAH 2,662,500 as of January 2024).

    Individuals must pay it within 60 days after receiving the notice; and for legal entities – quarterly advance payments by the 30th of the month following the reporting quarter, which are reflected in the annual tax declaration.

    Why does the engine tick after changing the oil?

    Experts named 5 reasons:

    1. The oils were poured in lesser or bigger quantities than necessary.
    2. A faulty oil pump.
    3. Low quality oil and filter.
    4. A dirty oil pump filter, which leads to a restriction of the flow of oil and a decrease in its pressure.
    5. The engine and the filters need time to reach the last lubrication point.

    In the latter case, the noises disappear after a few minutes.

    Importantly, If the oil has left the engine, there is a strong friction of the mechanisms inside, and the wear of the power unit increases.

    Before major problems become evident, the car will travel approximately 70-100 km (up to 200 km under optimal conditions). And then the power unit will overheat and jam it.

    Springtime tips for car drivers 

    It’s time to think about preparing the car for new weather conditions.

    Cleaning and washing

    With the arrival of spring, the first step of car preparation is a thorough wash. Road reagents accumulated over the winter, dirt and salt must be removed from the body to prevent damage to the paintwork.

    Maintenance

    Regardless of whether it is time for scheduled maintenance, it will not be superfluous to conduct an unscheduled inspection. Pay attention to the brake pads, check the level and condition of the engine oil, inspect the main units and units for possible malfunctions.

    Salon care

    During winter operation, the interior carpet may become damp and moldy. Dry it thoroughly, using special dehumidifiers and opening windows in sunny weather.

    Inspection of the engine compartment

    If the car was not used in winter and was parked in an unheated room, special attention should be paid to the bottom. Inspect it for corrosion, check the tightness of all connections, hoses and tubes.

    Replacement of tires and inspection of wheel arches

    With the onset of consistently warm weather, you need to switch to summer tires. Inspect the wheel arches for damage and corrosion. Remove dirt and grime from rims and tires, check tire pressure and balance tires as needed.

    Additional recommendations

    • Check the operation of all car systems, including electrical equipment, lighting, air conditioning.
    • Replace the cabin filter to ensure clean cabin air.
    • Polish the body to restore its original shine and protect it from the effects of external factors.
    • Check the battery for charge and secure connection of the terminals.
    • Fill up a full tank of gas to prevent condensation from entering the fuel system.

    By following these tips, you will prepare your car for the spring season and ensure that it works throughout the warm period of the year. Regular maintenance and timely prevention will help extend its service life and increase the safety of your trips.

    Create studio: WDVH