Wondering which used truck you should buy? If you’re on a budget, you should be looking for one that’ll last years without costing thousands at the repair shop. Luckily, there are many good and reliable options you can choose from. Let’s look at the trucks you can buy without breaking the bank.
Ford F-150
The Ford F-150 has been the best-selling full-size truck of all time. It has become a classic, offering people power and comfort in one vehicle. Older F-150s tend to hold up quite well, even after many years, and have a lower price tag. Because many of them are used as utility vehicles and work trucks, you will not find as many miles on them as with a sedan or SUV, which is more likely to be used for commuting and long trips.
The F-150 comes with four engine options, including a 4.2-liter V6 fitted with either an automatic or manual transmission and a 4.6-, 5.4- and Triton V8 in some model years (those equipped with the latter put out 340 horsepower; 425 pound-feet of torque). The F-150 models that are designed for heavy-duty applications can carry a payload of up to 7,700 pounds—more than enough for almost any hauling application.
Chevrolet Silverado 1500
Like the Ford F-150, Chevrolet’s Silverado has been around for years and is a favorite among used pickup truck buyers. The sixth generation of the Silverado can be bought on a budget and has a reputation for lasting well beyond its warranty period. The Silverado is available as an extended cab truck or a regular cab, and has many options when it comes to trim levels and interiors. Despite its power, the Silverado is much smaller, more manageable, and drivable than other full-size trucks.
For a used Silverado, there are many powertrain options ranging from 4.3 liter V6s that produce 200 horsepower to 5.3 liter V8s producing 285 HP. This more powerful model is capable of towing 8,400 pounds—ideal for pulling a boat, large camper, or trailer. It also features a wide range of safety features, including four-wheel ABS brakes and dual-stage airbags.
Honda Ridgeline
The Ridgeline is built on the Honda Pilot SUV platform, allowing for excellent storage and cargo options with an integrated cabin and bed. The bed is roughly the same size as a compact pickup truck’s, and its cabin has more passenger space than most trucks. It also offers great off-road capabilities.
The Ridgeline has a 3.5-liter V6 engine that produces 247 horsepower and 245 pound-feet of torque when coupled with a five-speed automatic transmission. As standard features, it has an all-wheel drive configuration and a 5,000-pound towing capacity. This truck has tight steering and responsive handling, making it easy to drive for almost anyone. That makes the vehicle a good option if you want large-pickup capabilities but also like being able to relax while behind the wheel.
