Steering Shaft Inspection

WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2003 Mazda 6. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

Inspect the following.
1. Column bearing for damage
2. Steering shaft length
  - Replace the steering shaft component as necessary.
Length
1. 211.6 mm {8.3 in}
Fig 1: Checking Steering Shaft Length
Courtesy of MAZDA MOTORS CORP.
Inspect the tilt and telescope operation.
1. Verify that the adjusting lever moves smoothly from unlock position to lock position.
2. Verify that the steering shaft is fixed firmly when the adjusting lever is locked.
  - Replace the steering shaft component as necessary.
Fig 2: Checking Adjusting Lever Movement
Courtesy of MAZDA MOTORS CORP.