Rack Inspection
1. Inspect the rack for cracking, damage, and tooth wear. Replace it as necessary.
2. Measure the runout of the rack.

Runout
Near point A: 0.15 mm {0.006 in} max.Near point B: 0.20 mm {0.008 in} max.
3. If not within the specification, replace the rack.
Tie-rod End Inspection
1. Inspect the tie-rod end for damage and boot cracks. Replace it as necessary.
2. Inspect the ball joint for looseness. Replace the tie-rod end as necessary.
3. Rotate the ball joint five times.
4. Measure the rotation torque of the ball joint using the SST
and a pull scale.

Rotation torque
0.4-2.7 N·m {3.5-27.5 kgf·cm, 3.1-23.8 in·lbf} Pull scale reading
3.4-25.5 N {0.35-2.60 kgf, 0.8-5.7 lbf}
5. If not within the specification, replace the tie-rod end.
Tie rod Inspection
1. Inspect the tie rod for bending and damage. Replace it as necessary.
2. Inspect the ball joint for looseness. Replace the tie rod as necessary.
3. Swing the tie rod five times.
4. Measure the swinging torque using a pull scale.

Swinging torque
0.1-4.0 N·m {1-40.7 kgf·cm, 0.9-35.3 in·lbf} Pull scale reading
0.6-24.5 N {0.06-2.49 kgf, 0.2-5.50 lbf}
5. If not within the specification, replace the tie-rod.
Steering gear and linkage disassembly
Steering gear and linkage assemblyMazda 6 Service Manual: Winter Driving
Carry emergency gear, including tire chains, window scraper, flares, a small
shovel, jumper cables, and a small bag of sand or salt.
Ask an Authorized Mazda Dealer to check the following:
Have the proper ratio of antifreeze in the radiator.
Inspect the battery and its cables. Cold reduces b ...
Mazda 6 Service Manual: STEP 2: Contact Mazda North American Operations
If for any reason you feel the need for further assistance after contacting your
dealership management or it becomes necessary to have the components or wiring system
for the supplementary restraint system modified to accommodate a person with certain
medical conditions in accordance with a ce ...