Overall Issue  The 96-01 Audi A4, and 00-02 Audi S4 can take advantage of Custom Performance Parts (CPP) new aluminum suspension components. Specifically, CPP offers adjustable aluminum control arms for the front suspension on the B5 platform Audis. These control arms allow the enthusiast to be able to dial in a more aggressive amount of negative camber in the front suspension of the Audi A4/S4. Negative camber allows better turn in when the car is use in track or autocross events. The control arms also allow for a caster adjustment.

Where does it go?  

The adjustable control arms replace the stock components and bolt directly to the rest of the front suspension of the Audi A4/S4. 

Advantages 

The CPP adjustable control arms allow the car's owner to go anywhere from a neutral camber position to as much as four (4) degrees of negative camber. By utilizing the adjustable control arms the enthusiast can be aggressive with suspension set-up when he/she desires to do so, but have the flexibility to go back to a stock configuration for street use. These CPP adjustable control arms are also less expensive than the OEM stock units, if one were to purchase them post the 3-4yr/50,000 mile warranty period. 

Disadvantages 

Whenever one modifies their car several things must be taken into account. First, periodically the rod ends will need to be replaced due to normal wear and tear. This means that there will be an ongoing cost for ownership and use of the adjustable control arms. In addition, care must be taken when installing these components. Installation should not be attempted by those unfamiliar with this specific installation. Why? Because it can be difficult to set-up the suspension with the correct alignment due to the adjustability of the components themselves. Lastly, whenever doing this installation a trained technician must align the car after the installation of the components is completed. 

Performance Gains 

Performance gains are made in direct relation to the aggressiveness of the configuration that is used. However, if the installation is not done correctly, or if the alignment is off, the handling performance of the car can actually suffer. 

Availability/Where to purchase 

The CPP Adjustable Aluminum Control Arms can be purchased through a number of US distributors. Cost ranges due to retailer pricing fluctuations and whether or not the the more expensive rod ends are used on the components. Cost is usually in the $750-900 range for the front upper control arms. 

Ease of Installation 

The Adjustable control arm installation usually takes approximately 2.5 hours to install, and then an additional 1-1.5 hours to align the car and straighten the steering wheel. 

Overall Impression 

The CPP adjustable control arm modification is a valuable asset to the serious enthusiast that is trying to maximize handling of their Audi A4/S4.