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: Shift-Lock System
The shift-lock system prevents shifting out of P unless the brake pedal is depressed.
To shift from P:
1. Depress and hold the brake pedal.
2. Start the engine.
3. Press and hold the lock-release button.
4. Move the selector lever.
NOTE
When the ignition is switched to ACC or the ignition ...
Mazda 6 Service Manual: Transaxle range (tr) switch inspection
Operating Inspection
1. Verify that the starter operates only when the ignition switch is at the
START position with the selector lever in P or N position.
If not as specified, adjust the TR switch.
2. Verify that the back-up lights illuminate when shifted to R position with
the ignition ...