i'm new to this forum but am looking at possibly purchasing a Pacifica. i've seen two 2005's online and thinking of test driving.

my question is this......

for those that have one, should i consider AWD vs FWD? are there any inherent problems with one versus the other? both have about 142,000 - 157,000 kms and are listed for $6500-7000 is this a good deal? what kind of problems might i be looking at down the road?

 

The best way to find out if the ball joint is covered is to contact a Chrysler dealer and ask. They will want the VIN and a description of what exactly broke and you may need to tow the car in for them to look at it. The car is now 13 years old and completely beyond warranty so frankly, it's doubtful that at this point in time they are going to be interested but there's no harm in asking.
As for whether there is additional damage as a result of the thing coming apart, somebody knowledgeable is going to have to examine it closely to see. The axle does come out by snapping it out when taking it apart, but that is done under controlled conditions and not when the wheel is loaded with the weight of the car and rolling, even slowly. The axle may have damaged the seal or trans housing on the way out, and there is no way of knowing without looking at it carefully.
Ball joints wear out, but slowly and probably that mechanic should have noticed something when you brought it in with that specific complaint. I think I'd want to find a better mechanic.