Unlike popular used compacts and sedans, the most reliable used pickup trucks are not necessarily all Honda and Toyota models. In fact, a number of car critics tout General Motors for reliability when it comes to trucks, despite the automaker’s spotty reputation concerning other types of vehicles. GM trucks are also well-engineered, offering power and style that should satisfy the full-size truck customer on a budget.
One favored used truck is the 2002 Chevrolet Silverado 2500. With its 300 horsepower, 6 liter V8 engine, it can carry up to 3600 pounds and pull up to 10,800 pounds. It’s also a nice-looking model, featuring a smoothly-styled grille. Its headlights have pleasing lines, instead of the new angled shapes that many people find off-putting visually. You can pick up this baby for only around $10,000, which is listed as the suggested retail value.
If you need something with stronger capability, for a significantly higher price you can own a 2008 Dodge Ram 3500, another popular – and American – used truck model. One of these will run you about $34,000, but that price is worth it if you need towing power of more than 16,000 pounds. That’s what the 2008 Dodge Ram 3500 pickup offers you. It also boasts a 350 horsepower 6.7 liter Cummins turbo-diesel inline-6 engine, which earned it the admiring description of “beefy” on the website vehix.com. This Ram also distinguishes itself by being one of the best in passenger comfort with its Mega Cab. Of course, extending the cab means 20 inches less truck bed, but many feel the trade-off is worth it, especially when considering the towing power of this model.
Representing the foreign contingent in popular used trucks is the 2007 Nissan Frontier. It’s comparable to the Toyota Tacoma, but has a lower resale value, currently at approximately $18,000. This full-size pickup hauls 6,500 pounds with its 261 horsepower, 4.0 liter V6 engine. Although its reliability was rated as only “average” by Consumer Reports, some experts claim the 2007 year to be a particularly good one for reliability.
If you’re looking for lighter use, but want greater reliability, you may want to consider another popular used truck at the same price point as the Nissan. It’s the Honda Ridgline, which earned a “Much Better Than Average” reliability rating from Consumer Reports. You won’t be able to tow or carry as much with it – 5,000 and 1500 pounds, respectively – but you’ll get good fuel economy and have lots of storage space. The engine has a nice kick to it, at 250 HP, 3.5 liter V6. Also, this Honda possesses a very graceful look and style.
After you’ve taken into account your needs and your budget, you may want to think about owning one of the models described above. Or do a little more research and talk to the experts. That way you’ll find the truck that’s exactly right for you.