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1. Lower the suspension to improve the A4s handling and appearance. Like most cars, in original form the A4 has a relatively high ride height. Lowering the suspension with stiffer, lower springs from a company such as Eibach and with performance shocks will greatly improve the A4s handling and make it feel much lighter and more nimble. You can also install coilovers, which combine the shock and spring in one adjustable unit, though this is the more expensive option.
2. Upgrade the wheels and tires. With the exception of the higher-end S models in the Audi lineup, most Audi models come with relatively plain looking wheels. With its restrained lines and simple styling, the A4 benefits greatly from a larger, more aggressive wheel design. You can either install OEM-style (original equipment manufacturer) wheels from one of the S models or you can aftermarket. A company such as the Tire Rack has a huge selection of wheels that will fit the A4, including the ever-popular BBS. Mount wider, lower-profile tires on those new wheels for a big improvement in handling.
3. Tune the engine for more power. Whether you have a V6 or a 1.8T turbocharged A4, more power can be had from the engine. The 1.8T can produce considerably more power than it does in stock form. Start with an exhaust system and intake, which will make your Audi sound better and make more power. From there, install a modified ECU (engine control unit), which will retune how much air, fuel and spark the motor gets. Turbocharged A4s in particular will benefit from the latter modification. After that, you can install larger turbos, intercoolers, larger fuel injectors and other upgrades to get big power from the motor.
4. Improve the stopping power. With more power and handling comes the need for increases deceleration. Start here by installing more performance-oriented pads and cross-drilled rotors. A set of braided steel brake lines will provide a firmer pedal feel. If you want to get more extreme, install a big brake kit from a company such as Brembo. While not cheap, doing so will improve stopping distances by replacing the stock components with larger calipers and larger diameter rotors.
5. Upgrade the interior. Start with a set of alloy pedals for more grip and a heavier alloy shift knob. If you want seats that will hold you in place better during fast cornering, replace the stock seats with a pair of race buckets from Recaro. Not only do these look great, but they will also reduce the weight of your car.
6. Modify the exterior. Even though it doesnt take much to improve the A4s aesthetics, a more aggressive front air dam and smoked turn signals and taillights go a long way to enhance the exterior.

1. Put your foot on the brake and attempt to move the gear shift out of park. The park-brake interlock system will not allow you to move your cars shift stick into position unless your foot is on the brake. By applying the brake you will be able to shift freely.
2. Remove the console covering the shifter. The console can be easily removed to check for other problems if applying the brake does not work. The Mercedes-Benz has cupholders near the base of the transmission shift stick. If spilled liquid enters the shifting console it can stop it from functioning.
3. Use a clean cloth soaked in an alcohol solution to clean the inside of the stick shift. Make sure you remove any residue that might be causing the issue.
4. Locate the safety override button near the base of the shifter mechanism if these solutions fail to fix the problem. Pushing this button will override the park brake interlock system and allow you to drive your car to be serviced. If you need to resort to this step it is likely that the solenoid or cable mechanism is broken and needs repair.