I'm the OP of this thread. I finally had the suspension inspection
done after getting some new snow tires put on. The verdict?

damaged/worn/loose right lower ball joint

Over a year ago, I did a tranny oil change at a Honda dealer where the
technician informed me that the ball joint was a bit loose. I thought
I would be selling my car within a few months so I chose to ignore
it.....then I forgot about it.....then the inside of my front tires
were being worn to the belt. My rear tires were wearing a bit unevenly
too so it was prudent to get the 4-wheel alignment.

My frame and alignment shop, I think, is one of those gems that an
earlier poster discussed. It seemed quite old-school, and eminently
fair and honest. I patronized them once before about 5 years ago after
a mishap doing donuts in an empty snow-covered parking lot. They've
been around forever (and they look it--no fancy pantsy interior or
exterior), do no advertising, and always seem to be busy. However,
they don't have state-of-the-art computer alignment equipment. Perhaps
having skilled technicians more than compensated for this shortcoming?
No matter, i have tight steering, stable handling and my car tracks
dead even down unbevelled roads. I'm happy!

Thanks for all the input and advice here!


obligatory factoid: Toe is the most important alignment adjustment on
the vehicle for preventing tire wear. An incorrect toe measurement of
1/8 inch is equal to driving a car one mile and having the tire dragged
sideways eleven feet. Too much toe and the tread is soon scraped off!