The 5 Best & Worst Trucks to Buy Used in 2024

You shouldn't have to sacrifice quality when searching for the most reliable used trucks. But with many automotive brands and vehicles dating back decades, it can be challenging to know where to begin and what to look for. Read our insider's guide below to buying the best-used trucks in 2024 and the ones to avoid, so you can make a better-informed decision of available options on the market.

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Top 5 Used Trucks to Buy in 2024

Our recommended best-used trucks are based on the most sold, top-rated, and valued features. Here are the top five that made our list and why they're worth considering as your next used pickup.

1. 2011 Ford Super Duty

The 2011 Ford Super Duty stands against the test of time because of the value it still offers. Both F-250 and F-350 trims had significant upgrades from the prior generation, including updated sheet metal, a new grille, and a thicker frame.

Its powertrain performance is also durable for heavy hauling up to 12,500 lbs., with its 6.2L gas V-8 engine outputting 385 hp and 405 lb.-ft. of torque.

Estimated pricing for a used 2011 Ford Super Duty F-250 ranges from $8,518 to $10,263 and between $9,621 to $13,800 for the F-350.

2. 2013 Toyota Tundra

If you're looking for the most reliable used trucks, the 2013 Toyota Tundra is highly rated for its reliability and safety.

U.S. News & World Report gave it a #2 ranking out of 10 for the Best Full-Size Pickup Truck of 2013 and won their Best Full-Size Pickup Truck for the Money award in 2013. They even gave it a five-star rating for reliability because it didn't have any NHTSA safety recalls. NHTSA also gave it a five-star side crash safety and four stars overall. 

With three strong V6 or V8 engine options combined with five or six-speed auto transmission, any powertrain you choose is durable enough to tow up to 10,400 lbs. when properly equipped. You can expect to pay between $16,000 to $30,100 depending on the model, mileage, and vehicle condition.

3. 2017 Nissan Frontier

The 2017 Nissan Frontier is one of the best-used trucks to buy in 2024 if you're looking for a standard, solid mid-size pickup. It can seat up to five passengers with a sturdy body, frame, and two engine options. You can choose from its economical 2.5L 4-cylinder engine or a 4.0L V6 engine that can tow up to 6,500 lbs.

It may not have all the glitz and glamour of newer used vehicles, but it's certainly reliable for lower budgets. Depending on the configuration and vehicle condition, used prices range from $8,149 to $26,749.

4. 2020 Chevrolet Silverado 1500

The Chevrolet Silverado 1500 ranked in the top three for the best full-size pickup trucks in 2020, mainly for its newest upgrades from the previous generation. The 2020 model year received a newly available Duramax turbodiesel 3.0L engine and Adaptive Cruise Control that uses camera and radar technology to maintain cruising speeds with minimal braking.

With five engine options and a touchscreen infotainment system added as a standard feature, the 2020 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 is one of the best-used trucks available for its added value. The average used pricing ranges from $16,029 to $43,101.

5. 2021 Toyota Tacoma

The 2021 Toyota Tacoma is considered one of the most reliable used trucks in its class, with solid off-road capabilities. It received no NHTSA safety recalls and can tow up to 6,800 lbs., which is impressive as a compact pickup.

The Tacoma TRD Off-Road trim offers Bilstein shocks, off-road suspension, and a locking differential to better navigate rugged terrain. Used price averages range from $17,400 to $41,970.

Top 5 Used Trucks to Avoid Buying in 2024

Now that you know our guide to the best-used trucks to buy, here are our recommendations on what used trucks to avoid. Our worst top five list is based on the lowest ratings, poorest reviews, vehicle issues, and consumer complaints.

1. 2006 Nissan Titan

The 2006 Nissan Titan and its first-year generation is considered one of the worst used trucks to buy because of its vast equipment issues. It had seven NHTSA recalls involving its electrical and fuel systems, suspension, engine/engine cooling, and rear door latch.

Consumers also reported that its brakes weren't capable of hauling its max towing capacity of 9,4000 lbs. due to warpage and overheating from continuous braking.

2. 2007 Toyota Tundra

Out of all model years, the 2007 Toyota Tundra had the most reported overall problems. The customer complaints were mainly engine issues, including secondary air pump failure, which costs $1,900 on average to repair. The NHTSA also listed 14 recalls for vehicle speed control, wheels, tires, steering, visibility, powertrain, and equipment.

3. 2008 Nissan Frontier

The 2008 Nissan Frontier had historic transmission issues. It was reported that the radiator coolant leaked into the automatic transmission and caused premature transmission failure.

It's one of the worst trucks to buy used because these transmission problems were costly to repair-which is a significant investment for a previously owned vehicle.

4. 2012 RAM 2500HD

If you aren't sure about what used trucks to avoid, the 2012 RAM 2500HD was infamous for its "death wobble." This heavy-duty truck was known for its intense and excessive vibrations to the point it caused an almost loss of steering control.

5. 2016 Toyota Tacoma

Unfortunately, the 2016 Toyota Tacoma made this list because of its reported excessive noise and vibrations. It makes the driving experience tiring and almost unbearable for long trips.

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How to Avoid a Lemon & Buy a Reliable Used Truck

When searching for the best-used trucks to buy in 2024, look for the following factors to avoid buying a lemon:

• Total Mileage: Higher mileage tricks (125,000+) can become more expensive to maintain.
• Warranty Coverage: Ensure the warranty plan covers the mileage against the trucks' drivetrain. Some federal emission warranties may cover by years or total mileage.
• Background Checks: Review its service record and history of repairs to see if the truck was regularly maintained for optimal performance-and look for issues the seller may not always disclose.
• Online Ratings: Read through safety and consumer ratings by reputable resources, like Kelly Blue Book and NHTSA, to see what others are saying.
• Test Drives: Always do a 20-minute test drive to check for any issues with the suspension, drivetrain, or steering. It also helps determine if the truck is the right fit for you.
  
  

Reliable Used Trucks for Sale in Santa Fe, NM

At Octane GMC, we offer the best and most reliable used trucks for sale in Santa Fe, NM. As a GMC dealership, we provide full transparency and accuracy in all used pickups we sell to give you the best deals possible.

Our Octane Advantage offers exclusive benefits, including complimentary lifetime alignment checks and a 48-hour Love it or Leave it Guarantee.

Ready for an easy, simple, and more secure used pickup purchasing experience? Browse our used trucks for sale below or contact us to schedule a test drive today at Octane GMC!