Side Panel Removal Note

WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2014 Mazda 3. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

Move the side panel in the order of arrows (1) and (2) shown in the figure and remove the guide from the rear console box.

Fig 1: Removing Guide From Rear Console Box
Courtesy of MAZDA MOTORS CORP.