1. Check under the hood area to make certain all filler caps are in place and all loose items (e.g. tools, oil containers, etc.) have been removed.
2. Lift the hood, grasp the padded area on the support rod, and secure the support rod in the clip. Verify that the support rod is secured in the clip before closing the hood.

3. Lower the hood slowly to a height of about 20 cm (7.9 in) above its closed position and then let it drop.
CAUTION
When closing the hood, do not push it excessively such as by applying your weight. Otherwise, the hood could be deformed.
Opening the HoodMazda 6 Owners Manual: Variable intake-air system (vis) shutter valve actuator inspection (l3)
1. Remove the air hose. (See INTAKE-AIR SYSTEM REMOVAL/INSTALLATION.)
2. Disconnect the vacuum hose from the VIS shutter valve actuator.
3. Connect a vacuum pump to the VIS shutter valve actuator.
4. Apply vacuum and verify that the rod moves.
If the rod dose not move, replace the intake ma ...
Mazda 6 Owners 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 ...