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: Variable tumble control system (vtcs) shutter valve actuator inspection
1. Remove the air hose. (See INTAKE-AIR SYSTEM REMOVAL/INSTALLATION.)
2. Disconnect the vacuum hose from the VTCS shutter valve actuator.
3. Connect a vacuum pump to the VTCS shutter valve actuator.
4. Apply vacuum and verify that the rod moves.
If the rod dose not move, replace the intake ...
Mazda 6 Service Manual: Temporary Spare Tire
Inspect the temporary spare tire at least monthly to make sure it is properly
inflated and stored.
NOTE
The temporary spare tire condition gradually deteriorates even if it has not
been used.
The temporary spare tire is easier to handle because of its construction which
is lighter and small ...