If you are in the market for a new-to-you pickup truck, there are plenty of options to choose from. While going with a used model might seem like a disadvantage, it has many perks. Most importantly, you are saving yourself from the depreciation of a new car.
With that said, it is important to choose models that are reliable and will not cost a fortune to maintain in the coming years of ownership. This list will help you find the perfect candidates, as it presents arguably the three best used trucks to buy.
Ford F150 (P221; 2004 – 2008) – The All-Time Classic
The Ford F150 is the most iconic truck of all time and a benchmark that all pickups are compared to. With production starting in 1948, Ford had enough time to make this truck perfect. On the used market, the eleventh generation codenamed P221 offers the best value for money. It started its life in 2004 and was eventually replaced by a successor in 2008. While this might seem too old to some, the F150 has held up extremely well over the years. The exterior uses a simple and timeless design, and the interior still has its qualities as well, particularly in the higher trim models.
This generation introduced an improved four-wheel drive system with vacuum-driven front wheel hubs, which were a major improvement over the older full-time connected axles. With a fully independent front suspension and rear shocks mounted outside of the frame, the ride quality of the F150 is better than that of most other trucks from that period.
Like most pickup trucks, you will find it available in a plethora of configurations. The base models are 2-door cabs but the most demanded are the 4-door variants, which make the truck even more practical and make it suitable for use even as a family vehicle.
One of the main reasons for the 11th generation F150 being among the best used trucks to buy are the drivetrains. They are reliable even after hundreds of thousands of miles and provide plenty of power. The base engine, which made its way into the F150 a year after the production start, is a 4.2L V6 with 210 hp and 260 lb.-ft of torque.
Positioned above it is a 4.6L V8 with 231 hp and 293 lb.-ft. The 4.6L received a minor redesign in 2007, which increased its power output to 248 hp and 294 lb.-ft. The top-of-the-line models feature a large-displacement 5.4L V8 which peaks at 300 hp and 365 lb.-ft.
Ford kept improving this generation of the F150 with each new model year, which means that the later the model you buy the better. The most significant changes came with the 2006 model. At that time, the F150 received a revised exterior design, more comfortable seats, and a navigation system became available for the first time ever.
Chevrolet Silverado 1500 (K2XX; 2013 – 2018) – The Definition of a Versatile Truck
The second contender for one of the best used trucks to buy is the third generation Chevrolet Silverado 1500. Produced between 2013 and 2018, this generation is still quite modern while having depreciated enough to become quite an affordable truck. Given that it is a proper pickup, there is no need to emphasize its practicality or off-road capabilities.
However, what is not so common on trucks is good design, and the Silverado excels in that. On the exterior, it is easily distinguishable with the unique double headlights and grille. On the interior, it is a similar story. Especially the better equipped models are really pleasant on the inside, with comfortable leather seats, and soft-touch materials.
When shopping for a used 3rd generation Silverado, you have three engine options. The first one is a 4.3L EcoTec3 V6, which constitutes the base drivetrain with 285 hp and 300 lb.-ft of torque. If you would like to have more power, then there is a 5.2L EcoTec3 V8, which makes the Silverado feel very responsive to throttle.
It produces 355 hp and 383 lb.-ft. Between 2016 and 2018, this engine was optionally available as a mild hybrid with a 0.45 kWh battery. While it is an interesting choice, you should consider the possible increased maintenance and repair costs. The most powerful engine offered was the 6.2L EcoTec3 V8. If you want the ultimate tower, this is the engine to get, as it makes 420 hp and 460 lb.-ft. Even with a heavy trailer, this Silverado won’t feel sluggish at all.
With regard to equipment, you will not miss a single feature. With the first units being less than 10 years old, based on the specification, the Silverado can be equipped with a navigation system with phone connectivity, a premium audio system, adaptive cruise control, lane departure warning, a blind spot monitor, and more. Additional features such as LED headlights and Apple CarPlay became available after the 2016 facelift. The higher trim models are truly packed with features.
Toyota Tacoma (N300; 2015 – present) – The Perfect Value for the Money
The third pickup truck on this list is the Toyota Tacoma, more specifically, its third generation codenamed N300. This generation is still available as new at Toyota dealerships, but production already started back in 2015, meaning there is a large selection of them on the used market already. On this list, the Tacoma is the newest vehicle, which is perfect for those that are worried about buying an older truck. Here, you can get just a few years old truck with less than 60 thousand miles at a steep discount, although yes, it is still the most expensive from this list.
The current Tacoma is nothing like the second generation, in comparison to which, it offers entirely new differentials, axles, and updated suspension, but also comfort and safety features. Depending on the specification, the Tacoma is available with either a 2.7L four-cylinder generating 161 hp and 181 lb.-ft of torque, or a 3.5L V6 with a hearty output of 278 horsepower and 265 lb.-ft. When looking for a truck with the base engine, you will see it paired with a 5-speed manual transmission (offered only on MY2016-2017) or a 6-speed automatic.
The V6 also has the option of a manual, but this time a 6-speed. The vast majority of the V6s, however, are equipped with a 6-speed automatic gearbox. Of course, it would not be a proper truck without an all-wheel drive. It is quite difficult to find a specification that is strictly a 4×2. As far as towing goes, the Tacoma can haul up to 6,800 lbs. if equipped with an optional tow package.
If you are worried about the equipment on the Tacoma, don’t be. Toyota has packed the Tacoma with features, and it can have everything you really want. Dual climate controls, keyless entry, blind-spot monitoring system, backup camera, and more. In addition, the third generation Tacoma is equipped with an acoustic windshield, weather stripping, and better insulated doors. Thanks to this, the truck is one of the quietest models in its class.
The Tacoma is one of the best used trucks to buy. It can be had in a variety of configurations, making it suitable for almost everyone. At the same time, the truck is relatively affordable and offers all the comfort amenities you might need. Lastly, the Tacoma is quite charming in its design, as it perfectly combines a refined and rugged look.
Best Used Trucks to Buy – Affordable and Practical
Whether you want your truck to haul heavy loads, go off-roading, or just want to benefit from its practicality and looks, you can find the perfect match for you on the used market. However, with the so many models available, choosing the right one can be quite overwhelming.
This list of best used trucks to buy should give you a good idea of some of the best options out there, and help you narrow down your list of potential candidates. By going with any of the models above, you will get a reliable, practical, and comfortable truck.
