Joint Shaft Pre-Inspection

WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2005 Mazda 6. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

Verify that the joint shaft is not twisted or cracked.
- Replace it as necessary.
Turn the joint shaft by hand and verify that the bearing rotates smoothly and freely.
- Replace it as necessary.
  
  Fig 1: Turning Joint Shaft By Hand For Smooth And Freely Rotation
  Courtesy of MAZDA MOTORS CORP.