I am considering purchasing a used 2011 Honda Accord with 27,736 miles. This is a four cylinder engine. The car's "car fax" looks good except no reported maintenance or service performed. The biggest question I have is about a black sooty like substance in the exhaust pipe. It has collected this soot like substance on the lower half of the pipe. It is quite thick and very black. LIke chimney soot. The other concern is the worn (metal visible) foot brake rubber pad.

Recommendations?

The soot may be from short trips. Have a qualified mechanic examine it, if you are concerned.