I'm looking at a '96 Accord EX Coupe. It's exactly the car I'm after, and in solid condition, however... I discovered rust when inspecting the rear undercarriage. I need some help analyzing whether this is a serious enough issue to disqualify the car.

I will do my best to describe where the rust is. Under the rear of the car, set in 3-6 inches from where the bumper goes under the car is a piece of steel attached to the undercarriage that spans almost the entire wheel base. From what I recall, it is something like 4-5 inches wide, and 1/2" thick.

I would say that this piece of steel is moderately rusted. Mostly on the passenger-side edge.

I can get a good deal on the car, but I want to get another 75-100K out of it without it rusting out and becoming a safety hazard. I need something that will become mechanically untenable before body and frame issues come into play.

 

THe things is that almost all Hondas from certain years rust........somewhat......

I would take the car to a bodyshop first and have them inspect it

jdm4eva