Front wheel drive axles consist of [CV] constant velocity joints, which are filled with grease and contained in rubber enclosures called boots. When test driving a vehicle with front wheel drive, first turn the wheel all the way to the right and slowly accelerate. To test the other side, repeat this procedure. If the axles are bad you will hear a bad clicking noise from the axle.  Visual checks on axle boots are also recommended. If the boots are broken, usually there will be grease thrown around the inside of the front tire area and on the tire itself. If you see grease inside of the tire area, these axles more than likely need to be replaced. This is another good bargaining point and this is not a cheap job unless big mike from elmont does it..