Could you be more specific? Do you mean the buttons on the door for the windows? I wonder if it is the contacts on the buttons need cleaning as they might be shorting ever so slightly.
I saw something similar on my rear drums, worn at the top and little wear at the bottom of the shoes.
I replaced the springs, clips and adjusters. When I replaced the shoes later it was more even in wear (although still worn more at the top).
Maybe the emissions problem is an easy fix like new plugs, ICV cleaned? If you are not upto it maybe ask a friend and look at the guides on here. You can save the car or ask for more money if you still want to sell it?
Maybe sticky contacts? Take them out (with the battery disconnected), wd40 and let them dry.
Also check the the fuse is of the correct value that protects that part of the circuitry.
Try wd40 or similar in and around the catch mechanism at the front of the bonnet. Good luck.
Once you get it opened, clean any crud and use proper lube spray in the mechanism to hopefully prevent it happening again.