These are the front inner ball joints from my '04 R53. Note that the one marked L has three holes and the one marked R has two holes. Mounting holes are identical and the third hole on the L version is not used. Rock Auto, even though I ordered a L and R from their website and their images are identical to my removed ball joints, sent me two of the L version (three holes). I sent one of them back indicating that it was wrong and they simply sent me another identical ball joint (three holes). The ball joints I received from Rock Auto are not marked L and R. Except for the third hole they appear to be identical. Who can tell me if the L and R are interchangeable? Thanks, and BTW, Rock Auto has no phone number for customer service or questions -- very aggravating!

 

They are NOT interchangeable L to R. I would return both joints and buy Lemforder joints from FCPEuro. They're OEM, about the same price as Rockauto joints, and FCP gives them a lifetime warranty.
FCP is also a great company to do business with.

 

Thanks for the response, Bean. I shipped the Rock Auto versions back and ordered from FCP. Here's hoping that order comes back correctly because I really miss driving the little b'tard.