RIDEX 2462S0115 Front Lower Ball Joint – MX-5 NA/NB LH or RH
Replacement RIDEX front lower suspension ball joint for Mazda MX-5 Mk1/NA, Mk2/NB and Mk2.5/NB-FL models. The same component is suitable for either the front-left or front-right side.
The lower ball joint forms the articulated connection between the lower suspension arm and steering knuckle. It allows the front wheel to steer while simultaneously moving through the suspension travel, making it a critical component for steering accuracy, wheel control and suspension geometry.
Side fitment: RIDEX specifies this component for the front axle, lower position, on both left and right sides. One joint is supplied; order two if replacing both front lower ball joints.
Common symptoms of a worn lower ball joint include knocking or clunking from the front suspension, steering play, vague handling, uneven tyre wear, movement detected during an MOT or suspension inspection, or deterioration of the protective ball-joint boot.
- Part type: Front lower suspension ball joint
- Installation position: Front axle lower
- Vehicle side: Left or right
- Cone size: 18 mm
- Thread size: M14 × 1.5
- Length: 75 mm
- Height: 75 mm
- Approximate weight: 0.74 kg
- EAN: 4059191656394
- Quantity required per vehicle: 2 if replacing both sides
- Quantity supplied: 1 ball joint
- Brand: RIDEX
- Part No.: 2462S0115
Fitment advice: MazSpec confirms this lower ball joint throughout the Mazda MX-5 Mk1/NA and Mk2/NB ranges through 2005, including 1.6, 1.8, 1.8 VVT and 1.8i Turbo variants. It corresponds with Mazda references NA01-34-550, NA01-34-550A and NA01-34-550B. Modified suspension arms or steering knuckles should be checked individually.
Other items to consider: Inspect the opposite lower ball joint, upper ball joints, lower wishbone bushes, track rod ends, anti-roll-bar links, wheel bearings and dampers. Wear in any of these components can contribute to suspension noise, steering play or incorrect wheel alignment.
Wheel alignment: Disturbing a ball joint or lower suspension arm can affect front suspension geometry. A wheel-alignment check is recommended after installation, particularly if the old joint showed substantial wear or associated suspension components were also replaced.
Useful tools / consumables: Vehicle lift or trolley jack and axle stands, socket and spanner set, penetrating fluid, torque wrench, ball-joint separator, suitable press or removal/installation equipment where required and wheel-alignment equipment following the repair.
Difficulty guide: DIY Difficulty: Moderate to Advanced. Removal can be difficult where the joint is corroded into the suspension assembly, and correct seating and tightening are essential.
Why RIDEX? RIDEX suspension components provide a cost-effective aftermarket replacement manufactured to application-specific dimensions. A serviceable lower ball joint is essential for precise steering, correct suspension articulation and safe wheel control.
What’s in the box: One RIDEX front lower ball joint. One unit is supplied; order two if replacing both sides. Suspension arms, installation tools and wheel alignment are not included.
Installation notes: Support the vehicle securely and remove the relevant front wheel. Separate the lower ball joint from the steering knuckle using the correct tool and remove the joint from the lower suspension arm according to the Mazda workshop procedure. Clean and inspect the mounting area before installing the replacement. Ensure the joint is fully seated and tighten all fasteners to the applicable specifications. Refit the wheel, check for free suspension and steering movement and have the front wheel alignment inspected after completion.
| Make | Model | Sub Variant | Chassis / Code | Years | Power (PS) | Engine Codes | Fuel | Transmission | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Mazda | MX-5 Mk1 / NA | 1.6 | NA6C | 1990–1998 | 90–150 | B6-series | Petrol | Manual / automatic where fitted | Front lower; fits left or right side |
| Mazda | MX-5 Mk1 / NA | 1.8 | NA8C | 1993–1998 | 130–135 | BP / BP-ZE | Petrol | Manual / automatic where fitted | Front lower; same joint both sides |
| Mazda | MX-5 Mk2 / Mk2.5 | 1.6 | NB6C | 1998–2005 | 110 | B6-series | Petrol | Manual / automatic where fitted | NB and NB-FL |
| Mazda | MX-5 Mk2 / Mk2.5 | 1.8 / 1.8 VVT | NB8C | 1998–2005 | 139–146 | BP-series | Petrol | Manual / automatic where fitted | Includes later NB-FL VVT application |
| Mazda | MX-5 Mk2.5 / NB-FL | 1.8i Turbo | NB8C | 2002–2005 | 181–185 | BP Turbo | Petrol | Manual | MazSpec explicitly includes turbo application |
| Vehicle Manufacturer | OE Reference Number |
|---|---|
| Mazda | NA01-34-550 |
| Mazda | NA01-34-550A |
| Mazda | NA01-34-550B |