A quote from someone who appears to know more than me:
“ They could just be loose. If you don't get them tightened up, they WILL wear out quickly since they are getting hammered over every bump.
If you elevate the front end and tighten the bearings like the shop manual says, the bars will "index" if the races are shot. What I mean is the bars will turn about 10 degrees and stop, require more effort, then stop again so your steering feels notchy. This will eventually affect handling in a very bad way.
I would see if they behave after tightening. If they don't, I'd replace them in a heartbeat.”
My advice? Take the bus until you can afford the repair.