Dorman 533-260 Suspension Ball Joint - Front Lower

Dorman 533-260 Front Lower Ball Joint

Dorman 533-260 is a threaded suspension ball joint built as a direct replacement for specific front lower applications. It is engineered and tested for reliable OE-style service on Ford Escort, Mercury Tracer, Mazda Protege, Mazda MX-3, and Mazda 323 models.

• Precision-engineered replacement suspension ball joint
• Threaded design with bolt-in mounting type
• Steel construction with grey finish
• Dust boot included for joint protection
• Mounting hardware included
• Premium suspension grade type
• 12 mm wrench size
• Stud type: pinch

Fitment Details

• Fits 1997-2003 Ford Escort, front lower
• Fits 1997-1999 Mercury Tracer, front lower
• Fits 1994-1998 Mazda Protege, front lower
• Fits 1994-1996 Mazda MX-3, front lower
• Fits 1994-1995 Mazda 323, front lower
• Fits 1993 Mazda 323, front lower, from VIN 630911
• Fits 1993 Mazda Protege, front lower, from VIN 630911

Product Description

This Dorman 533-260 front lower ball joint is made from steel and uses a threaded, bolt-in mounting design for the specified vehicles. The included dust boot helps protect the joint from road contamination, while the premium suspension grade construction supports consistent steering and suspension operation. For shoppers searching for a front lower ball joint for 1997-2003 Ford Escort or a replacement ball joint for 1994-1998 Mazda Protege, this part matches the listed OE applications.

This part cross-references MOOG Chassis Products K8773 for the same application.

Common Repair Symptoms

• Front-end clunking or popping over bumps
• Loose or wandering steering feel
• Uneven tire wear from worn suspension geometry
• Excessive play in the front lower suspension joint
• Noise during turning or braking

Installation Notes and Tips

Verify the vehicle’s year, make, model, and front lower position before ordering. Confirm the 1993 Mazda 323 and 1993 Mazda Protege VIN note, since only vehicles from VIN 630911 are listed. Inspect related suspension components, fasteners, and alignment settings during installation, and torque all hardware to the vehicle manufacturer’s specifications.

Quality Assurance

Dorman states this suspension ball joint is precision-engineered and rigorously tested to provide a reliable replacement for the original equipment on the listed vehicles.