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: Service procedure
Inspection, adjustment
Inspection and adjustment procedures are divided into steps. Important
points regarding the location and contents of the procedures are explained
in detail and shown in the illustrations.
Repair procedure
1. Most repair operations begin with an overview illustr ...
Mazda 6 Service Manual: Mounting the Spare Tire
1. Remove dirt and grime from the mounting surfaces of the wheel and hub, including
the hub bolts, with a cloth.
WARNING
Make sure the mounting surfaces of the wheel, hub and lug nuts are clean
before changing or replacing tires: When changing or replacing a tire, not
removing dirt and gri ...