Rust spot (run away or buy?)

[TJMexico]

I found what looks to be a good deal overall on a '95 XJ. I gave it a precursory inspection this afternoon but will have a chance to go over it with a fine tooth comb tomorrow morning. They are asking about $4,700usd. Mechanically, it is sound. The interior is in good shape for a 30 year old vehicle.

The only thing that I found on my precursory check that gave me pause was a rust spot under the passenger's side. I'll attach photos below.

The fact that it is right on that support bracket worries me. Or maybe it is good to be there as the bracket will give it a bit of extra support?

It is common here to patch something like that and keep on going, but it does - as I said - give me pause. What do those with experience here say? If I do not find any other serious rust issues (and it looks clean so far), should this be a deal breaker?

 

[TheBoogieman]

 

[RS Hill]

In my opinion, if there is one area of rust on a vehicle of that age, there is a strong possibility there is more rust that’s hidden.

If the rust doesn’t real bother you and it’s just a A to B vehicle and you want it, throw a low offer down.

If you can weld or know someone that will fix it for you then anything is fixable. It looks close to the unibody frame area? Looks like the seat belt anchor bracket.

It’s just time and money. Is the rest of the vehicle in solid/good condition.

 

[Gilaguy23]

Ha, good ole Cherry bomb muff. Cant comment on the rust cause only you know what's out there, but out of the 4 or 5 XJ's Ive had the 95 was the best IMO.

 

[Chris]

In my opinion, if there is one area of rust on a vehicle of that age, there is a strong possibility there is more rust that’s hidden.

Bingo

That's a sure sign of what lies beneath.

 

[TJMexico]

Bingo

That's a sure sign of what lies beneath.

Yeah, that crossed my mind. I am going to have a mechanic look it over tomorrow, and I'll get up under it for a closer look, as well. Of course,
there is always the possibility of stuff that can't be seen. To some degree, it is going to be a possibility with a 30 year old vehicle.

But I'll ride a mule before I'll buy a post 2005 abomination...