I was looking at a '95 Accord EX for just about $1700, very little rust, some minor paint chips, 144k on the odometer. The only thing that worries me is that the front passenger ball joint is making noise, how much to shops charge to fix this?

There was that and one of the previous owners emptied the oil out, they never drove it like that, but I'm worried that may have damaged something (drove fine, no smoke or anything).

 

The price depends on labor rates. You will have to call around to get an estimate.

Was the person currently selling the vehicle who drained the oil?

For any used vehicle purchase, I'd also recommend getting a shop that specializes in Hondas to do a used vehicle inspection, so you have no other surprises.

 

The owner before them drained the oil, they added some back before driving it much. The current owners did have the car inspected, they found a weak passengers front joint and the broken windsheild, but that was it.

 

Are the noises when turning? Had same problem and it was the due to CV boots were shot and needed replacement long ago. Both front axles needed to be replaced as a result and cost around $500 total. It was expensive but if that's all that's wrong with it, it's better than getting a new car. If that repair is too much, better to pass this one up.

 

It made loud clunks I think, made some nasty rubbing and grinding noises on the highway.

Thank you for the heads up, looks like this one might need a bit more tlc than I planned

 

Looks like it'll be $180-$250 at my local shops, then I have to budget in some AC freon (R-13), an oil change, and a new windsheild, about $2200 in total including the purchase price ($1500).

My biggest concern is the oil burning, no smoke or anything abnormal, just dont wanna be replacing seals all weekend.