Aftermarket Headers and Cops
 

Thought I'd post this in the SoCal forum as my driving will be done around here and my question revolves around the context of CA laws.

I'm looking to purchase catless aftermarket headers, but I'm afraid about having to deal with cops. Someone convince my mind to just yolo it. (also im not a reckless driver, so it is unlikely my driving habits would get me pulled over).

I found different responses on the internet but they're not quite as clear-cut as I'd like.

What are the different consequences that can happen if I get pulled over and caught? (ranging from best case scenario to worst case; easy fix-it ticket, state ref, etc. but explained with details please.)

Thanks in advance

The louder your car is, the more likely you'll get pulled over.
If the cop is bored, he'll start checking your car for violations; tint, exhaust, headers, etc.
Sadly car enthusiasts have been lumped into the same group of people who take over street intersections and have burn-out displays. Cops are under pressure to crack down on these, so right now is a tough time to attract attention.

I got pulled over less then 24hrs after putting on my ark dts catback for it being too loud. Got a ref ticket and luckily it came out to 94.5 db.

I don't want to ruin my luck but I've been ok so far(6 months). I have TRD exhaust, Borla UEL headers, and catless front pipe. When I see cops i do drive like a grandma lol.

Do you still have to pay for the Ref ticket at that point, or just the inspection, or none at all?

Had to pay the inspection which was $108. But I beleive during the inspection theyd call you on not having a cat. But Im not positive about that.

If running a header, go for stock exhaust to maintain stealth, methinks.

Im planning on going JDL UEL catless headers, stock overpipe, stock front pipe and TRD catback. The TRD catback is one of the quieter exhaust systems so maybe i'll be alright lol

So the actual Ref ticket gets waived?

It also depends on the area... Irvine and O/C area cops seem to be worse but everyone is right. You run the risk if you have none carb legal parts. Best to keep as much of the exhaust stock as much as possible. The more your car looks and sounds stock the better chance you have staying under the radar.

I dont think there was an actual ticket, just to get it inspected. I was cited for a loud exhaust, not modified, I believe there is a difference.

Well isn't that just my luck, I go to school in Irvine... maybe I'll just have to wait:lol:

go with a catless uel and oft. Keep the rest of the exhaust the same and you should be as safe as you can be. But when modifying the car you need to pay to play.

The funny thing was I was running a JDL headerback system for past 2 years and I was okay. Also didn't drive wreckless or anything