YOur best bet on the front tire wear is probably to go to a good alignment shop (try to find one that's honest). They'll check the tie rods and ball joints and whatnot for wear as they do the work, and tell you if something is worn out. Of course, if you intend to do your own work, you should check first for wear, but if you expect to hire someone for repairs, you might as well do it in this order.