Dorman 538-242 Suspension Ball Joint - Front Lower Rearward

Dorman 538-242 Suspension Ball Joint

Dorman 538-242 is a threaded suspension ball joint built for specific BMW front lower rearward applications. It is precision-engineered and tested as a direct replacement for the original equipment part on select BMW X1, 328i xDrive, 335i xDrive, 328xi, 335xi, 325xi, and 330xi models.

Key Features

• Threaded, bolt-in suspension ball joint for front lower rearward placement
• Steel construction with a grey finish
• Premium suspension grade type
• Dust boot included; dust boot material is polychloroprene
• Mounting hardware included
• 12 mm wrench size
• Tapered stud design with 35.5 mm stud thread length
• Non-greaseable design with no grease fitting, cotter pin, or castle nut

Detailed Description

This Dorman suspension ball joint, part number 538-242, is made for front lower rearward suspension locations on select BMW vehicles. The steel, threaded design supports OE-style replacement needs where a worn or damaged ball joint can affect steering response, suspension articulation, and front-end stability. It cross-references MOOG Chassis Products K80678 and TRW JBJ713 for the same application.

Fits 2010-2015 BMW X1, front lower rearward. Fits 2009-2013 BMW 328i xDrive, front lower rearward. Fits 2009-2013 BMW 335i xDrive, front lower rearward. Fits 2007-2008 BMW 328xi, front lower rearward. Fits 2007-2008 BMW 335xi, front lower rearward. Fits 2006 BMW 325xi, front lower rearward. Fits 2006 BMW 330xi, front lower rearward.

What It Helps Fix

• Front suspension looseness or play at the ball joint
• Clunking or knocking from the front lower rearward suspension area
• Uneven tire wear caused by worn suspension geometry
• Steering wander or reduced front-end precision
• Inspection failures related to ball joint wear

Installation Notes and Tips

Confirm the front lower rearward position before installation and verify the threaded, bolt-in mounting style matches the original part. Inspect the surrounding control arm and mounting points for wear before fitting Dorman 538-242. Use the included mounting hardware as specified by the vehicle service procedure, and torque fasteners to BMW specifications after the suspension is at ride height.

Quality Assurance

Dorman engineers and tests this replacement ball joint for reliable service on the listed BMW applications. The part is built to match the original equipment fit and function for the confirmed vehicles and positions shown above.