Winnipeg police say they will target speeders rather than vehicle equipment problems on popular cruise nights. (CBC) Automobile enthusiasts can expect a different approach from the Winnipeg Police Service on the weekly Sunday cruise night, police say.

Officers handed out 242 tickets on Sunday, under a new policing philosophy that targets speeders and unlawful drivers rather than vehicle equipment problems.

Last year, Manitoba car clubs complained that enthusiasts were being pulled over for petty infractions and that police were driving car lovers off the road. The police service suggested in a news release Tuesday that it may curtail mass inspections of vehicles on Sundays this summer.

Staff Sgt. Mark Hodgson said complaints from car club members prompted the new approach. Police met with the auto clubs in an effort to work with them, he said. "We explained to them there were some issues in regards to equipment that were brought to our attention and they wanted to work with us to try and alleviate these equipment violations."

Most of the 242 tickets issued Sunday were for speeding, police said. Only three were related to equipment issues such tinted windows. Police will continue working with the Manitoba Association of Automobile Clubs to hold information sessions over the summer. Clinics will be held to explain to car owners what kind of equipment is illegal.