Best to carry out an oil consumption test.
(ie so many miles per litre of oil)
That is the only way to get an informed answer to your question.
What is the mileage of the car?
The plugs look fine.
You could try a set of vise grips on the bolt head and pull when you are turning and also at the same time using a drift/hammer gently tap on the other end of the bolt. (An extra pair of hands will be required)
When you get it out if the bolt looks okay then it will be the joint I am afraid.
That is all irrelevant I am afraid.
That 9 - 3 will be rack movement.
No matter what test you perform you will not find any movement on the banana arm ball joint.
This is all informed advice, however it is up to you whether you take it or not.
If there is nothing obvious or loose then it will be Compression rod ball joints or upright lower ball joint.
This is a common issue and I have all parts in stock if required.