1. Remove the stabilizer control link from the vehicle.
2. Inspect for bending and damage.
3. Measure the ball joint starting torque.
(1) Rock the ball joint stud side to side 10 times.
(2) Rotate the ball joint stud 10 times.
(3) Measure the starting torque using a suitable Allen socket and a torque wrench.

Starting torque
0.23-0.47 N·m
{2.4-4.7 kgf·cm, 2.1-4.1 in·lbf}
Rear stabilizer removal/installation
Trailing link removal/installationMazda 6 Service Manual: i-ACTIVSENSE (Some models)
i-ACTIVSENSE is a collective term covering a series of advanced safety and driver
support systems which make use of a Forward Sensing Camera (FSC) and radar sensors.
These systems consist of active safety and pre-crash safety systems.
These systems are designed to assist the driver in safer dri ...
Mazda 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 ...