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: Steering wheel and column inspection
Steering Wheel Play Inspection
With the wheels in the straight-ahead position, gently turn the steering
wheel to the left and right and verify that the play is within the
specification.
If the play exceeds the specification, either the steering joints are
worn or the backlash of the stee ...
Mazda 6 Service Manual: Power steering fluid inspection
Fluid Level Inspection
1. Inspect the power steering fluid level.
Add fluid to the specified level as necessary.
Fluid specification
ATF M-III or equivalent (e.g. Dexron®II)
Fluid Leakage Inspection
1. Start the engine and let it idle.
2. Turn the steering wheel fully to the left and ...