1. Verify that the joint shaft is not twisted or cracked.
2. Turn the joint shaft by hand and verify that the bearing rotates smoothly and freely.

Drive shaft
Joint shaft removal/installationMazda 6 Service Manual: Front shock absorber inspection
1. Remove the front shock absorber from the vehicle.
2. Inspect for damage and oil leakage.
3. Inspect the rubber bushing for deterioration and wear.
4. Compress and extend the shock piston at least three times. Verify that the
operational force does not change and that there is no unusual nois ...
Mazda 6 Service Manual: Front fender panel
FRONT FENDER PANEL REMOVAL/INSTALLATION
1. Disconnect the negative battery cable.
2. Remove the front side turn light.
3. Remove the fender molding. (See COWL GRILLE REMOVAL/INSTALLATION.)
4. Remove the front bumper. (See FRONT BUMPER REMOVAL/INSTALLATION.)
5. Remove the front combination light ...