joints

A good physical inspection is in order. The front end needs to be lifted, and the lower control arms need to be supported. Then, the tires can be shaken at the 12 and 6 positions, checking for looseness. Any kind of perceptable looseness would be considered "failing" for the ball joint. Keep in mind that wheel bearings can also be felt loose this way, so you need to physically see the ball joints to verify the movement too.