The Most Reliable Pickup Trucks to Buy Used
Buying a dependable used pickup is one of the smartest financial decisions you can make. With the cost of a new truck often stretching beyond a reasonable budget, choosing a pre-owned model means you can save thousands without making any major compromises on capability or performance. The right reliable used pickup truck offers long-term performance, avoids the steepest depreciation curve, and ultimately lowers your total cost of ownership (TCO).
We know that trust is essential when purchasing a used truck. That’s why this guide isn’t based on opinion. The data used here is backed by verified owner feedback from J.D. Power’s rigorous Quality, Dependability, and Performance awards. This process gives you confidence that our recommendations are supported by real-world durability and owner satisfaction scores.
Ready to find a dependable used pickup truck for sale? We’ll first define what makes a vehicle reliable, explain how that reliability is measured, and then deliver our expert-backed model recommendations across the midsize, large light-duty, and large heavy-duty truck classes.
Table of Contents
- What “Reliability” Really Means in a Used Truck
- About the Awards
- Best Midsize Pickup Trucks
- Best Large Light-Duty Pickup Trucks
- Best Large Heavy-Duty Pickup Trucks
- Used Pickup Trucks to Approach with Caution
- How to Inspect and Verify Reliability Before You Buy
- Understanding Total Cost of Ownership
- Explore Our Current Used Truck Inventory
What “Reliability” Really Means in a Used Truck
When you search for the most reliable used trucks, the term “reliability” is about much more than avoiding a tow truck. True reliability is a blend of engineering integrity and smart economics.
- Build Quality & Longevity: This refers to the core components: a solid, rust-resistant frame; a durable suspension that handles stress; and overall consistent fit and finish.
- Powertrain Strength: This is the heart of the truck—the engine and transmission. We look for proven track records, manageable service intervals, and an absence of common, expensive mechanical flaws.
- Ownership Costs: A reliable truck saves money. We focus on models with lower maintenance frequency, readily available parts, fair insurance rates, and, most importantly, high resale value.
- Consistency Over Time: The best used trucks aren’t one-hit wonders. They are models that have earned multi-year recognition for durability, proving their long-term ownership value.
Buyer Insight: It’s a myth that reliability is only found in trucks with low mileage. Many excellent used pickups with 150,000+ miles make better investments than newer trucks with poorly maintained, over-stressed drivetrains. A detailed service history is a far better predictor of future dependability than mileage alone.
Decoding J.D. Power Awards
To give you the most authoritative advice, our recommendations include scores from multiple J.D. Power studies. Understanding the timing of these awards is key to finding the best used pickup trucks for reliability.
| Study Name | What It Measures | Relevant Model Year | Why It Matters for Used Buyers |
|---|---|---|---|
| Dependability | Problems experienced by owners of 3-year-old vehicles over the preceding 12 months. | Award Year – 3 | Most Important! This directly reflects long-term durability and quality of components. |
| Performance | Problems experienced by new vehicle owners during the first 90 days of ownership. | Award Year | Predicts manufacturing quality and initial execution. |
| Quality | Owners’ emotional attachment, satisfaction with design, and driving experience. | Award Year | Predicts manufacturing quality and initial execution. |
Clarifying the Model Year Gap: The Dependability Award utilizes a three-year lag to give us the most accurate, real-world data on which pickups truly stand the test of time. For example, the 2024 Dependability Award considers vehicles from model year 2021.
Most Reliable Used Pickup Trucks by Category
To build the most authoritative guide possible, we’ve organized five years of J.D. Power data into three clear categories. This organization makes it easy to compare trucks side-by-side based on the Model Year you’ll actually be shopping for.
Remember the J.D. Power score key: 91-100 is Best, 81-90 is Great, and 70-80 is Average.
Best Midsize Pickup Trucks
Midsize trucks offer a perfect blend of utility and daily drivability. This class is consistently dominated by manufacturers known for durability.
J.D. Power Quality Award Winners – Midsize Pickup Trucks
| Award Year | Winner | Overall Score | Quality Score | Resale Value Score |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2020 | 2020 Ford Ranger | 82/100 | n/a | 90/100 |
| 2021 | 2021 Jeep Gladiator | 84/100 | 84/100 | 98/100 |
| 2022 | 2022 Ford Ranger | 81/100 | 83/100 | 89/100 |
| 2023 | 2023 Ford Ranger | 83/100 | 87/100 | 89/100 |
| 2024 | 2024 Hyundai Santa Cruz | 81/100 | 87/100 | 84/100 |
J.D. Power Performance Award Winners – Midsize Pickup Trucks
| Award Year | Winner | Overall Score | Quality Score | Resale Value Score |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2020 | 2020 Honda Ridgeline | 81/100 | 78/100 | 90/100 |
| 2021 | 2021 Honda Ridgeline | 81/100 | n/a | 87/100 |
| 2022 | 2022 Hyundai Santa Cruz | 78/100 | 77/100 | 83/100 |
| 2023 | 2023 Hyundai Santa Cruz | 81/100 | 84/100 | 87/100 |
| 2024 | 2024 Toyota Tacoma 2WD | 82/100 | 79/100 | 95/100 |
J.D. Power Dependability Award Winners – Midsize Pickup Trucks
| Award Year | Winner | Overall Score | Quality Score | Resale Value Score |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2020 | 2017 Nissan Frontier | 83/100 | 83/100 | 83/100 |
| 2021 | 2018 Nissan Frontier | 82/100 | 83/100 | 95/100 |
| 2022 | 2019 Nissan Frontier | 83/100 | 87/100 | 95/100 |
| 2023 | 2020 Toyota Tacoma 4WD | 82/100 | 86/100 | 90/100 |
| 2024 | 2021 Toyota Tacoma 2WD | 82/100 | 87/100 | 91/100 |
Expert Insights:
- Toyota Tacoma: Its reputation for longevity is real. The Tacoma consistently posts the highest Resale Value Score (94), which directly translates to a lower Total Cost of Ownership.
- Nissan Frontier: A perennial dependable used pickup truck winner due to its simple, time-tested mechanical design, making the 2017 model year a smart, affordable buy.
- Honda Ridgeline: This model earns high marks for ride comfort and overall owner satisfaction, making it an ideal choice for first-time buyers or those using their truck primarily as a commuter.
Buying Advice: The ideal mileage range for a gas midsize truck is under 100,000 miles, but Tacomas are known to easily surpass 200k miles with proper service. Always check for frame rust on older Tacomas before purchase
Best Large Light-Duty Pickup Trucks
The half-ton segment is highly competitive, but certain models stand out for their engine durability and build quality over time.
J.D. Power Quality Award Winners – Large Light-Duty Pickup Trucks
| Award Year | Winner | Overall Score | Quality Score | Resale Value Score |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2020 | 2020 Toyota Tundra 4WD | 81/100 | 84/100 | 83/100 |
| 2021 | 2021 Toyota Tundra | 80/100 | 84/100 | 85/100 |
| 2022 | 2022 Chevrolet Silverado 1500LTD | 85/100 | 87/100 | 90/100 |
| 2023 | 2023 Ram 1500 Classic | 85/100 | 88/100 | 92/100 |
| 2024 | 2024 Ram 1500 | 83/100 | 89/100 | 82/100 |
J.D. Power Performance Award Winners – Large Light-Duty Pickup Trucks
| Award Year | Winner | Overall Score | Quality Score | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2020 | 2020 Ram 1500 | 83/100 | 80/100 | 89/100 |
| 2021 | 2021 Ram 1500 | 84/100 | 81/100 | 88/100 |
| 2022 | 2022 Ram 1500 | 81/100 | 78/100 | 92/100 |
| 2023 | 2023 Nissan Titan | 88/100 | 88/100 | 91/100 |
| 2024 | 2024 Nissan Titan | 82/100 | 81/100 | 80/100 |
J.D. Power Dependability Award Winners – Large Light-Duty Pickup Trucks
| Award Year | Winner | Overall Score | Quality Score | Resale Value Score |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2020 | 2017 Ford F-150 | 84/100 | 84/100 | 85/100 |
| 2021 | 2018 Toyota Tundra 4WD | 81/100 | 84/100 | 86/100 |
| 2022 | 2019 Toyota Tundra 4WD | 84/100 | 88/100 | 87/100 |
| 2023 | 2020 GMC Sierra 1500 | 85/100 | 85/100 | 88/100 |
| 2024 | 2021 Toyota Tundra 2WD | 80/100 | 84/100 | 85/100 |
Expert Insights:
- GMC Sierra 1500/Chevy Silverado 1500: The models sharing the 5.3L Vortec V8 engine are particularly praised for their longevity. We recommend checking for maintenance records related to the Active Fuel Management (AFM) system on 2014–2017 models.
- Ram 1500: Consistently tops Initial Quality and Performance studies, reflecting high build quality and owner satisfaction. The 2024 model posts an excellent Quality score of 88.
- Ford F-150: For the 2017 model year and older, the traditional 5.0L V8 remains a gold standard for simple, dependable performance.
Cost-to-Own Considerations: Light-duty trucks burn more fuel, but reliable ones like the Sierra/Silverado keep maintenance costs low. Higher Resale Value also minimizes your depreciation loss when it’s time to sell.
Best Large Heavy-Duty Pickup Trucks
These trucks are built for extreme work, and their durability comes down to the powertrain and frame. Our top picks have proved their worth under heavy stress.
J.D. Power Quality Award Winners – Large Heavy-Duty Pickup Trucks
| Award Year | Winner | Overall Score | Quality Score | Resale Value Score |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2020 | 2020 Ford Super Duty F-250 SRW | 79/100 | 73/100 | 85/100 |
| 2021 | 2021 Ram 2500 | 78/100 | 77/100 | 88/100 |
| 2022 | 2022 Chevrolet Silverado 2500HD | 79/100 | 82/100 | 81/100 |
| 2023 | * | * | * | * |
| 2024 | 2024 Chevrolet Silverado 2500HD | 83/100 | 85/100 | 86/100 |
*No Large Heavy-Duty Pickup Truck entry for award year 2023.
J.D. Power Performance Award Winners – Large Heavy-Duty Pickup Trucks
| Award Year | Winner | Overall Score | Quality Score | Resale Value Score |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2020 | 2020 GMC Sierra 2500HD | 80/100 | 76/100 | 82/100 |
| 2021 | 2021 GMC Sierra HD | 81/100 | 79/100 | 84/100 |
| 2022 | 2022 Ford Super Duty F-250 SRW | 79/100 | 76/100 | 84/100 |
| 2023 | * | * | * | * |
| 2024 | 2024 Ford Super Duty F-250 SRW | 82/100 | 83/100 | 85/100 |
*No Large Heavy-Duty Pickup Truck entry for award year 2023.
J.D. Power Dependability Award Winners – Large Heavy-Duty Pickup Trucks
| Award Year | Winner | Overall Score | Quality Score | Resale Value Score |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2020 | 2017 Chevrolet Silverado 2500HD | 82/100 | 82/100 | 85/100 |
| 2021 | 2018 Chevrolet Silverado 2500HD | 82/100 | 81/100 | 87/100 |
| 2022 | 2019 Chevrolet Silverado 2500HD | 81/100 | 82/100 | 88/100 |
| 2023 | 2020 Chevrolet Silverado 2500HD | 80/100 | 81/100 | 79/100 |
| 2024 | 2021 Ford Super Duty F-250 SRW | 80/100 | 79/100 | 87/100 |
Expert Insights:
- Chevy Silverado HD: Shows impressive consistency, winning the Dependability award across multiple years. These models (and the GMC Sierra HD counterparts) with the Duramax diesel are known for their high towing capability and trucks that last 200k miles or more if maintained. Check for service records on the Allison transmission.
- Ram 2500/3500: The 6.7L Cummins diesel is a legend in the segment, often cited as one of the most reliable truck brands for heavy-duty use. The critical point is verifying consistent maintenance on the emissions control system.
- Ford Super Duty: The latest 6.7L Power Stroke diesel is excellent, but we advise caution with the older 6.0L diesel models, which had known issues.
Buying Advice: Heavy-duty trucks are meant to work. A well-maintained diesel can easily handle 200,000 miles or more, provided the fluid changes and emissions system services are fully documented.
Used Trucks to Approach with Caution
As experts committed to transparency, we want you to be aware that not every used truck is a guaranteed winner. Knowing which models or specific engine years had documented issues is key to avoiding future headaches.
- Early Ford EcoBoost Engines (2011–2014 F-150): Some early turbo V6 models experienced spark plug and intercooler condensation issues that could cause problems if not properly addressed by previous owners.
- Chevy/GMC Transmission Issues (2014–2017): Models with the 8-speed automatic transmission often reported issues with shuddering or shifting harshness. While often fixable, a clean service history is essential here.
- Nissan Titan XD: The model featuring the Cummins diesel was discontinued, meaning parts availability or specialty service can be more challenging and expensive than with the domestic heavy-duty competition.
How to Inspect and Verify Reliability Before You Buy
Even with the highest J.D. Power dependability scores, the condition of a used truck is unique. We simplify the buying process, but we also empower you with knowledge. Here is your smart buyer’s checklist for finding a dependable used pickup truck:
- Review Vehicle History Report (CarFax/AutoCheck): This is non-negotiable. It screens for flood damage, total loss titles, and major accident history.
- Conduct a Pre-Purchase Inspection (PPI): Have an independent mechanic put the truck on a lift. They can spot hidden frame rust, fluid leaks, and transmission issues that a quick glance misses.
- Inspect the Frame and Undercarriage: Get down and look. Toyota frames, in particular, are famous for longevity, but they are also known for rusting if neglected in salty climates. Look for deep, flaky corrosion, not just light surface rust.
- Confirm Maintenance Records: A binder of oil change receipts and fluid flushes is golden. Consistent care is the best indicator of a vehicle’s health.
- Test Drive Thoroughly: Listen for odd engine noises, feel for smooth transmission shifts, and test the four-wheel-drive system.
The Hidden Value: Total Cost of Ownership (TCO)
Choosing a truly reliable truck is the best way to manage your finances over the long-term ownership period. The Total Cost of Ownership includes much more than the sticker price—it factors in fuel, insurance, maintenance, and, crucially, resale value.
Models with both a high J.D. Power Dependability Score and a high Resale Value Score (like the Toyota Tacoma) deliver a lower TCO. They cost less to fix, spend less time in the shop, and pay you back more when you eventually sell or trade them in.
How Centennial Leasing & Sales Simplifies the Buying Process
As busy professionals who value convenience and expertise, our clients appreciate that our auto brokers eliminate the stress of finding a reliable used truck.
Our expert brokers already know the best trucks to buy used, handle all the research and haggling, and simplify the vehicle history check, saving you time and avoiding surprises. You get transparent pricing, financing guidance, and a premium, stress-free acquisition experience.
Explore Our Current Used Pickup Inventory
Ready to find your next reliable used pickup truck?
Buy Smart, Drive Confidently
Finding a reliable used pickup truck is about balancing verified data with expert buying advice. Our selections are backed by J.D. Power data, guaranteeing durability, longevity, and long-term satisfaction.
We believe in empowering you with transparent information and personalized service. Explore our inventory today or connect with a Centennial Leasing & Sales auto broker for expert guidance tailored to your specific needs. You deserve a truck you can trust.