The most reliable used pickup trucks

A pickup truck is a very strange type of car. A truck of the passenger category with a very good off-road potential. The multi-purpose vehicle can take the family and a ton of stuff on almost any road. Moreover, today pickups have received automatic transmissions and modern options. The trouble is that the price of such useful cars is not much inferior to the good SUVs and crossovers. So is it possible to buy the not very expensive pickup and, if yes, what kind?

That's why in the secondary market today, you can buy such different conditions and price options that each of them should be approached with a magnifying glass, carefully checking where and how the car was used. Generally speaking, all used pickups are characterized by three things – high mileage, tired rear suspension and transfer case, and all kinds of body damage.

For reference, the USA is the most demanded market for pickup trucks. Therefore for many years, the passenger "trucks" lead the sales rankings, and, for example, the Ford company keeps the profit only due to a line of pickups. The explanation is simple: in America, a lot of people are engaged in all kinds of small businesses, for which exactly the most reliable used pickup trucks suit best - one car allows you to carry both the family and the necessary cargo for your business. For the same reason, all kinds of delivery vans and "heels" are popular in Europe.

How to Find the Most Reliable Used Truck

Now, let's talk about the process of finding a reliable used pickup truck. The simplest way is to look through the classified ads in various online forums and sites. For example, you need to search for Ford F150 or Chevrolet Silverado 1500 used trucks. There are also specialized services for advertising such vehicles, where you will have the opportunity to choose only reliable models with good prices.

Sometimes you can get lucky and find a car with low mileage and no scratches in the physical condition at a good price. If you have spare time, go to the auto shows. There are also many online car auctions where pickups are sold.

Of course, this method is not always relevant because it depends on chance; it's good that you do not need to spend much of your time searching for a reliable used pickup truck. These days there are many useful resources that help in finding the right car with all its details listed.

You just need to subscribe to such services and receive timely information about new models or cars on sale or being sold at low prices. Such resources will also aid you in choosing a particular model of the most reliable used pickup truck you are interested in purchasing.

Pickup Truck Manufacturers From America

Today, the market is divided between six major car companies:

  • Ford, with the F-series, which has been in production since 1947;
  • Chevrolet and GMC - powerful vehicles built on the same base, with similar technical characteristics but different designs;
  • RAM, combining Dodge, Fiat, and Chrysler models;
  • Toyota - there are plants of the Japanese concern in America, where Tundra and Tacoma versions are produced for the domestic market;
  • Nissan - is increasingly less in demand because they receive negative feedback from Americans on comfort and insufficient power.

To find out how much a car of the chosen model costs, including all costs, you need to leave an application on Star Trans Logistics' website. The adviser will tell you about conditions, formalities, and prices. The company not only brings cars from America but also deals with customs clearance, certification, legalization, and purchase of original spare parts.

Ford F-150 from 2008

Ford F-150

For many years, it has been a bestseller in the U.S. due to the model's long history and reliable units. The engine is simply modifiable, after which the car is ready to drive on gas or even spirit gasoline. The length of the car can reach 6 meters, with a body size of 2 meters. Comfortable and safe at high speed, it has a large margin of height and width, so the cabin easily fits 4-5 adults. Acceleration to a hundred is up to 12 seconds, depending on loading. There are also heavier models of this series Super Duty F-250/350/450.

GMC Canyon 2018

GMC Canyon 2018

For many drivers, it is not worthy of attention due to the fact that this very attractive truck has a small engine and a small length. However, in reality, the car is very convenient and has several advantages. For example, this pickup from GMC is great for families. There are enough places for 2-3 children, and it also features convenient access to the trunk from the cabin. The cabin is also well equipped with air conditioning, cruise control, and a CD drive or Bluetooth radio.

Nissan Titan 2019

Nissan Titan 2019

The car was released in the mid of the last decade and became the most popular model for long trips. The engine is powerful and can go up to a hundred quickly. At the same time, its fuel consumption is relatively low, so you can take it on long country roads and make them comfortable. The cabin has large dimensions and enough interior space to accommodate even large families.

The used Nissan Titan 2019 has an extremely compact and functional design and excellent performance, but these features have led to its price growth. Many buyers will also be pleased with the spacious interior of this pickup, which is always very convenient for transporting people or cargo.

Toyota Tacoma: Second-Generation (2005-2015)

Toyota Tacoma: Second-Generation

This combination of pickup trucks has established an excellent reputation for itself, attracting attention due to its high popularity and good price. The powerful engine performs very effectively but with relatively small fuel consumption. The suitable body size will really fit five people comfortably in the cabin at a reasonable distance from each other. It is quite fast on city roads, and large quantities of cargo can be transported without problems.

Ford Ranger 2019

Ford Ranger 2019

This model is very popular in the U.S. and Canada due to its small size, high reliability, and comfortable cabin. Even better, it is very cheap and has quite powerful gasoline and diesel engines. It's also equipped with several technical options, such as an automatic transmission, different suspension settings, and a high-capacity trunk that allows you to transport large goods. Although this model has average fuel consumption and is not very economical on long distances, it does its job perfectly well in everyday life.

Dodge RAM (1500 / 2500 / 3500 / 4500 / 5500) 2008-2020

Dodge RAM

Represents one of the most beautiful and technologically advanced pickups of our time. Very large and roomy shows good dynamics in the city and on the highway "swallows" potholes at any speed. Presented with all types of cabs, except full-size. It can tow loads up to 5 tons. There is a steering booster and good standard music. You can pick up a variant with an open body or an already prepared body on the market. If necessary, the Dodge RAM easily adapts to your tasks and makes it more comfortable. For example, to install a remote start or heated seats.

Toyota Tundra 2013-2020

The used Toyota Tundra is recognized as one of the best-used pickups around the world. It traditionally loses out to more established players in the U.S. but is very popular in other countries.

Toyota Tundra 2013-2020

The Tundra is a truly global pickup, and the new generation of American heavy vehicles has recently become one of the best-selling cars in the world. New versions and versions for more rugged use have been introduced since 2015, and thousands of models have already been released. In addition to being a comfortable and durable truck, Tundra is also equipped with versatile equipment that allows you to transfer loads from open to closed body models.

Honda Ridgeline: First-Generation (2006-2015)

Honda Ridgeline: First-Generation

The Honda Ridgeline has been in production since 2006 when it was launched as a compact truck. To date, the model has gained a good reputation among the owners of American pickups. The car is quite spacious so that it can be applied to various cargo transportation tasks.

The pickup is equipped with an automatic transmission. It also differs from competitors in its fuel efficiency and power, as well as excellent traction and dynamics on roads with snow or mud. This helps it stand out from competitors in this class, such as Toyota Tacoma and Ford Ranger. The Honda Ridgeline won't let you down even on the most off-road terrains and will ensure you always arrive at your destination in time and with no fuss.

Chevrolet Colorado 2012

Chevrolet Colorado 2012

The Chevrolet Colorado is a great car with an impressively sized interior for every day. Some options include a modern multimedia system, climate control, and ergonomic seats on the back row. In the end, this car is quite in line with its class. High ground clearance and wide wheelbase provide good cross-country ability. Payload depends on the selected modification but usually is 1000-1500 kg. Engine capacity starts with a 2.5-liter atmospheric. Also, there are variants with diesel engines.

Nissan Frontier: Second-Generation (2005-2021)

Nissan Frontier: Second-Generation

If you have a long-time interest in pickups, the Nissan Frontier is a very good option in terms of cost and size. This model is very convenient for carrying cargo, and its configuration will fit many people comfortably. It is comfortable to travel on all terrains, as well as in cities. All the pickup models of this brand satisfy the most stringent requirements regarding comfort and safety through the use of modern technologies.

This model is one of the most popular cars in America, primarily due to its reliability and cost of ownership. The model is quite spacious and comfortable, with an extended wheelbase. If necessary, it can easily accommodate five adults. Front and rear door windows are equipped with a defroster and electric operation, providing comfort during service in winter.

Chevrolet Silverado 2014

Chevrolet Silverado 2014

Classic American car has been selling well for the last five years. It meets the requirements of a typical American: the equipment perfectly copes with trips on dirt roads and has the necessary carrying capacity. At the same time, the fuel consumption is not too high. The main feature is independent double-wishbone suspension and the presence of springs. For safety are responsible airbags around the truck and ventilated disc brakes. There are standard versions on sale with improved cargo characteristics (2500-3500 kg).

What used trucks to avoid?

It is right to start choosing the best used trucks to buy, determining the purpose of the vehicle. Choosing a used truck should be practical, not requiring a cosmic cost for repairs, then the purchase will be considered profitable, and the machine - to use up its resources.

Not all vehicles are equally suitable for transporting different types of cargo. One category is good for urban operation, while the other is better for intercity routes. Take into account several parameters that facilitate the choice of a used car:

  • type of vehicle;
  • capacity;
  • body type;
  • technical condition.

It is not necessary to consider all the criteria at once. Choosing from various options will not be difficult to have an idea of the trucks.

Its technical condition so that further investments do not bring losses. Experts recommend checking the fuel system of the engine of the used truck. Besides, you should check the angle of free rotation of the wheels and the body for damage and corrosion.

The readings on the used car's speedometer can be twisted in favor of the seller. In general, a mileage of 500,000 indicates a great vehicle resource; with a value of over 1 million miles, the car is exhausting its potential. Pay attention to the fuel’s tank volume since it is the volume that determines the mode of stops and vehicle operations.

The driver's seat should be comfortable. It is especially important to consider when operating the vehicle for long distances. When buying used machinery, do not forget about its maintenance. Before you choose a car and proceed to the purchase, you should research the market for the cost of parts, their availability, and the difficulty of repair work.

A used SUV or crossover may seem like a tempting purchase, as new autos are usually quite expensive. But if the SUV is prone to malfunctions, its maintenance and repairs will be costly.

Which SUVs were the best this time, and which ones should you avoid buying?

Volvo XC60 2008-2017

The reliability rating is 87.5%.

Volvo XC60

This SUV model's owners said that 27% of their XC60 had malfunctioned last year. But most were minor: it had nothing to do with the engine electrics and the body. There were also complaints about problems in a wide range of systems, including air conditioning, battery, engine, and its electrical systems, exhaust, transmission, clutch, and suspension.

Volvo dealers fixed 58% of the problems for free. But only 8% of the repairs cost between $750-$1000. More than 90% of the cars still worked, and 75% were repairable in a day or less.

BMW X3 2010-2018

Reliability rating of 89.7%.

BMW X3

Some of the cars had problems with the engine, brakes, and other parts. The most common problem was with the suspension. Most owners were given a free repair. If they had to pay, it cost them between $51-$500. Six percent of owners received a check-up to $1,500 for their repairs. About two-thirds of cars were repaired on the same day, but 18% took more than one week to be repaired.

Only 11% of Q5s were out of service. That said, brakes were the most dissatisfied, followed by the fuel system and non-motor electrics. Half of the repairs were done for free, but those not paid for by Audi or its dealers cost between $600 and $1,300. Only 50% of the cars could still be operated after a breakdown. However, 75% were repaired in less than a week.

The Bottom Line

If you buy a $25k pickup truck, your search should start with the used Ford F-150. It's the middle ground on almost every parameter. There are many fresh copies on the market, the car is inexpensive to repair and reliable. The only requirement is regular preventive maintenance.

If you can find an unkilled Chevrolet Silverado, we can also confidently recommend this car for purchase. Its reliability is proved by operation, but the "tired" copies can unpleasantly be surprised with reparation price, which is compensated by high liquidity. Besides, one will have to put up with a squalid interior.

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