Audi Repair: Audi A4 Quattro, auto repair shop, shift center

Question
I have a 1998 A4 Quattro that recently had the Automatic Handle/Shift (center Console) pull right off.  It won't allow any shifting out of park, and the first small local auto repair shop (we towed it to), said they were not comfortable fixing it and take it to Audi.  The closest one (Audi Dealer) is in another city, and I was hoping that this kind of repair is not difficult...but that I just need to call around to the right shop.  Could you give me your opinion on the problem, and the normal repair complexity?

Answer
The lever is normally attached by a screwthread, or by a securing screw.  Normally the handle splits which causes it to let go.  I would say if you can keep it in place, you can select a gear and drive the car to the dealership.  I don't see any danger, other than you need to ensure you know how to select different gears, by pressing the center of the gear shift to release it.  Let me know if you have any more questions,  Jan