BAR partners with law enforcement to curb sideshows
For over 20 years, the Bureau of Automotive Repair (BAR) has partnered with California law enforcement to train officers to identify vehicles with illegally modified emissions systems. The training program was started in the early 2000s by the San Diego Police Department and the Office of Traffic Safety to help curb illegal sideshows, street takeovers, and street racing activities. Originally known as “Dragnet,” the training program has evolved into the California Highway Patrol (CHP) Vehicle Racing/Sideshow Modified Vehicle Enforcement (VR/SMVE) program. To date, over 7,100 law enforcement staff from agencies throughout the state have participated in VR/SMVE training.
The rise of sideshows
Sideshows began popping up in the 1990s, born from the car cruising culture of the 1970s and 80s. Sideshows have become increasingly dangerous with drivers performing risky stunts on major roads, often inches away from spectators. This has led to numerous deaths and injuries. To combat the rise of sideshows, some cities have passed laws making sideshow participation and viewing illegal. On September 23, 2024, Governor Newsom signed Assembly Bill (AB) 1978, AB 2186, AB 2807, and AB 3085. These laws impose stricter penalties and authorize law enforcement to impound vehicles involved in illegal sideshows and street takeovers.
Enforcement and inspection
To further deter sideshows, law enforcement officers are authorized to pull over a vehicle and inspect its engine if they think the vehicle has been illegally modified Vehicle Code (VC section 27156(b)). Drivers can also be cited for excessively loud exhaust systems (VC section 27150(a)). To clear an emissions violation, the vehicle must be returned to emissions legal condition and pass an inspection through the Smog Check Referee Program.
Training and support
The VR/SMVE training is taught by both BAR staff and CHP trainers. The goal of the training is to familiarize participants with vehicle engines and emissions control systems. In the classroom, participants learn relevant vehicle codes and regulations, how to check a vehicle’s Smog Check history, and use reference materials including the BAR Smog Check Manual and California Air Resources Board aftermarket parts database. During hands-on practice, participants inspect vehicles provided by BAR to identify legal and illegal modifications and apply the correct vehicle code violations.
BAR also offers ongoing support to law enforcement in the field. Officers may contact BAR to request real-time assistance with vehicle inspections. Using photos, inspection history, and registration data, BAR staff can help officers determine if a vehicle is street legal or not.
Community safety
BAR’s collaboration with law enforcement is core to its mission of protecting consumers and California's air quality. CHP Sergeant Justin Haynes, who oversees the VR/SMVE trainings, recently commented, “Illegal street racing, sideshows, and takeovers have a detrimental impact on community safety. These activities expend valuable public safety resources and cost local jurisdictions thousands of dollars in road repairs. By investing in enforcement training, we enhance the well-being of California communities and keep the roadways safe for everyone.”