Can a Cop make you Pop.... Options

[Random_Stranger]

Your hood for no reason (Or even in California)? I was hearing about things like this happening. Today I got pulled over because my license plate was falling off due to a screw missing, so I put it on my dashboard. I got pulled over for a fix it ticket (not a problem) and the cop asked me if I had any engine modifications. I told him "No", and he took my word for it (and believe me, I have no modifications other than that aluminum hood, not even an exhaust). I was curious why he didn't make me pop it anyways. Was it because had I said yes, he would be allowed to then check it?


I wear hearing that in Santa Barbara, because of illegal displays of "exhibition of speed" (Hah! I didn't say the R word), that any car for whatever reason, they just pull over and say "Pop your hood" and then cars get impounded. I am not saying it is okay to do the "exhibition of speed thing", but some of us cannot afford a Mercedes McLaren, and just want that luxury, ya know?


Anyways, what are your thoughts or facts?


Thanks

[lagos]

i don't think they can make you unless they take you into custody or have probable cause. otherwise that's like searching a house without a warrant. but i might be wrong.

That would make sense, but this is Cali we are talking about.
Everyone I have spoken too said that a cop can pretty much MAKE you open your hood. The probable cause in that case is that they think you are violating smog laws. Its pretty much Nazi Germany over there.

[goferris]

i don't think they can make you unless they take you into custody or have probable cause. otherwise that's like searching a house without a warrant. but i might be wrong.

That would make sense, but this is Cali we are talking about.
Everyone I have spoken too said that a cop can pretty much MAKE you open your hood. The probable cause in that case is that they think you are violating smog laws. Its pretty much Nazi Germany over there.

good point. but what if you aren't doing anything to warrant probable cause? no speeding, not extreme styling, mostly stock... would that warrant a "search" just on the fact you are a teen driving a japanese sporty car?
i will say this much. i'm damn glad i don't live in cali for that reason. can't do anything to the car without all sorts of hassle from the fuzz

This post has been edited by goferris: Jul 21, 2008 - 10:11 PM