Intermediate Shaft: Inspection

WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2004 Mazda 3. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

Verify that there is no torsion or cracks on the intermediate shaft. If there is any malfunction, replace the intermediate shaft.
Turn the intermediate shaft by hand and verify that the bearing rotates smoothly and freely. See Fig 1 . Replace it as necessary.

Fig 1: Inspecting Intermediate Shaft

Courtesy of MAZDA MOTORS CORP.