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: Air intake actuator inspection
1. Connect battery positive voltage to terminal D or F and ground to terminal
F or D of the air intake actuator.
2. Verify that the air intake actuator operates as shown below.
If not as specified, replace the air intake actuator.
...
Mazda 6 Service Manual: Changing a Flat Tire
NOTE
If the following occurs while driving, it could indicate a flat tire.
Steering becomes difficult.
The vehicle begins to vibrate excessively.
The vehicle pulls in one direction.
If you have a flat tire, drive slowly to a level spot that is well off the road
and out of the way of tr ...