I checked out a 2002 Mini base with 237000 miles for sale.It looked and drove like a new car.The only flaw was a rattle in the exhaust,when reving the engine.The bottom of the engine was pretty wet but not dripping any oil.It was pretty fast for a base car with 237k.It was a second owner,a 19yr old owned it for a year.He wants to buy a Civic SI with a 6spd.He was asking 3800 I offered him 3000 which he turned down.Called me a few days later said he would go down to $3500,I stuck with $3000.He doesn't have any records on the car.Am I crazy buying a mini with 237k.Any ideas what would cause the exhaust rattle.Also what other things should I be checking on the car.

 

With 237k and no records you can just about plan for plenty of upcoming issues. Motor, drive train, steering, exaust, wheel bearings, brakes, altenator, compressor, etc...You would probably be better off buying a much lower mileage one and have peace of mind.

The exaust rattles because the mounts and/or hangers have failed.