Gotcha, I figured as much. Thanks for the explanation. Yea, no justification for taking your plates, a tow home and unable to drive the car is enough punishment. The plate revoking is supposed to be when they believe you will disobey the order. Your matter in 2011 should serve no bearing in this. I do believe CVSE inspectors have a legal duty to follow the inspection manual, it and the applicable laws determine pass or reject. CVSE manual is super easy to pass if its only enforced to the level outline. We also have to follow all the laws so more then the CVSE manual applies in an inspection. dealerships go way way beyond what's reasonable with this.
Are you aware there is the MVA, and MVAR? They are different, but both apply in BC.
Canada Traffic act also applies. this should clarify up some questions (and proving most mods are legal)
http://www.bclaws.ca/civix/document/...bc/26_58_multi