THE 5 BEST TO BUY USED IN 2026 (& Ones to Avoid)

Searching for the best used trucks to buy in 2026 but unsure which model years are reliable? With mid-size, full-size, and heavy-duty pickups available across several automakers and generations, long-term value can vary significantly, depending on the one you choose.

Below we'll break down five of the best used trucks to buy in 2026, and five models to approach carefully so you can make a better-informed investment.

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What Are the 5 Best Trucks to Buy Used in 2026?

Our recommended best used trucks to buy in 2026 are based on owner-reported reliability, resale value, model year improvements, and overall capability. Here are the top five that made our list and why they're worth considering as your next used pickup.

1. 2013 Toyota Tundra

The 2013 Toyota Tundra is one of the best older full-size trucks to buy used because of its strong reliability and resale ratings.

U.S. News & World Report gave it a #2 rank in their Best Full-Size Pickup Truck of 2013 and won their Best Full-Size Pickup Truck for the Money in 2013. J.D. Power also gave the 2013 Tundra a Great 88/100 Quality & Reliability score and a Great 87/100 Resale score.

You can choose between three engines based on your driving needs:

• 4.0L V6
 
• 4.6L V8
 
• 5.7L V8

With V8 models towing up to 10,400 lbs when properly equipped, they give you plenty of capability for trailers, boats, and other equipment.

2. 2015 Ford F-150

The 2015 Ford F-150 is another top full-size truck to buy used if you want newer-generation features at a pre-owned price.

It was completely redesigned with a high-strength steel frame and aluminum-alloy body, reducing the truck's weight by up to 700 lbs. This helped improve fuel efficiency and increase the towing capacity. Compared to the previous model, the maximum payload increased by up to 530 lbs and the maximum towing capacity by up to 1,100 lbs.

The lineup offers several engine options, including naturally aspirated V6 and V8 engines and two EcoBoost V6 options. When properly equipped, the 2015 F-150 can tow up to 12,200 lbs. - giving you enough capability for large campers, boats, horse trailers, and work equipment

It also ranked #1 on J.D. Power's Best Large Light Duty Pickups for 2015 with a Great 82/100 Quality & Reliability score.

If you want a used truck with strong owner-reported quality, several powertrain choices, and more modern features than previous generations, the 2015 F-150 is a strong contender.

Average Used Price: $4,367 - $23,862

3. 2017 Nissan Frontier

The 2017 Nissan Frontier is a top mid-size truck to buy used if you value proven reliability over newer interior technology.

It has a simpler cabin and fewer infotainment features than newer mid-size pickups. However, it can still be a benefit if you prefer easy-to-use controls over complicated touchscreens. Depending on the trim and equipment, you can still get useful features like Bluetooth, steering wheel audio controls, and NissanConnect that provide daily convenience.

The 2017 Frontier ranked #1 on J.D. Power's Best Midsize Pickup of 2017 and won their Quality Award and Dependability Award. It also has a Great 85/100 Quality & Reliability score and a Best 92/100 resale score.

If you prioritize dependability and capability, the 2017 Frontier is a valuable choice.

Average Used Price: $5,532 - $21,779

4. 2020 GMC Sierra 1500

The 2020 GMC Sierra 1500 is one of the best full-size trucks to buy used in 2026 if you want a more modern model.

The lineup expanded its powertrain options with an available 3.0L Duramax turbo-diesel engine, giving you another choice for strong low-end torque and highway efficiency. Depending on the trim and configuration, you can get the ProGrade Trailering System, the six-function MultiPro Tailgate, and up to 15 available camera views to help with hitching, towing, and maneuvering.

The 2020 Sierra 1500 ranked #1 on J.D. Power's Best Large Light Duty Pickup of 2020 and was their Dependability Award winner with a Great 85/100 Quality & Reliability score.

If you want current technology without purchasing a newer pickup, the 2020 Sierra 1500 brings a strong balance of reliability, capability, and modern features.

Average Used Price: $13,659 - $38,924

5. 2022 GMC Canyon

The 2022 GMC Canyon is among the best mid-size trucks to buy used because of its impressive capability for its size.

Depending on the configuration, it's available with a 3.6L V6 or 2.8L Duramax turbo-diesel engine for more capability. The V6 can tow up to 7,000 lbs when properly equipped, while certain 2WD diesel configurations increase it up to 7,700 lbs. The AT4 trim level is also built for rugged performance with an off-road suspension, Hill Descent Control, all-terrain tires, and a two-speed transfer case.

The 2022 Canyon tied for first place in J.D. Power's Best Midsize Pickups for 2022 with a Great 84/100 Quality & Reliability score and a Best 92/100 resale score.

If you need stronger power in a mid-size truck, the 2022 Canyon is plenty capable, especially with its positive reliability ratings and resale value.

Average Used Price: $17,674 - $40,580

Our worst used trucks to buy in 2026 are based on model years with reliability ratings, recalls, or manufacturer service bulletins worth researching carefully before buying.

1. 2012 Ram 2500 HD

Photo Credit: Ram

The 2012 Ram 2500 HD is a heavy-duty truck we recommend inspecting carefully due to documented steering concerns on certain 4WD models. Some 2008-2012 Ram 2500 4WD models were included in an NHTSA safety recall because part of the steering linkage could break, potentially causing loss of steering control and increased accident risks.

J.D. Power gave the 2012 Ram 2500 an Average 72/100 Quality & Reliability score. Consumer Reports also described it as less reliable than other vehicles from the same model year.

If you're considering a used 2012 Ram 2500 HD, check the VIN for open recalls and have the steering and suspension inspected before buying.

Average Used Price: $3,903 - $26,934

2. 2014 Chevy Silverado 1500

The 2014 Chevy Silverado 1500 was the first year of a redesign generation, but certain trucks had documented steering and A/C concerns worth researching before buying used.

General Motors (GM) issued an NHTSA safety recall because some 2014 Silverado 1500s could temporarily lose power-steering assistance during low-speed turns and then have it suddenly return, potentially making the truck harder to control while turning or parking and increasing accident risks.

GM also released technical guidance after some owners experienced their A/C blowing warm due to a small crack or pinhole that could develop in the line between the compressor and condenser. This could allow refrigerant to leak out and reduce the system's cooling ability.

J.D. Power gave the 2014 Silverado 1500 an Average 78/100 Quality & Reliability score.

If you're considering this model year, check for open recalls, review the service history, and verify that both the steering and air conditioning operate properly.

Average Used Price: $3,530 - $20,600

3. 2016 Toyota Tacoma

The 2016 Toyota Tacoma launched a redesigned generation, but some configurations had documented driveline vibration concerns worth checking.

Toyota issued a technical service bulletin covering certain 2016-2019 Tacoma 4WD models with the six-speed automatic transmission. Some affected trucks could develop a noticeable vibration through the seat, floor, or steering wheel while slowing down between approximately 10 and 30 mph. Toyota provided a specific repair procedure to address this condition.

J.D. Power gave the 2016 Tacoma an Average 76/100 Quality & Reliability score. Consumer Reports also described its reliability as about average compared to other vehicles in the same model year.

This issue doesn't apply to every 2016 Tacoma. If you're considering one, confirm the drivetrain and transmission and pay attention to unusual vibration while slowing down during your test drive.

Average Used Price: $9,389 - $28,942

4. 2013 Ford F-150

The 2013 Ford F-150 is a used truck we recommend researching carefully if it's a model equipped with the 6R80 six-speed automatic transmission.

Ford recalled certain 2011-2013 F-150s with this transmission because of a sensor problem that could cause it to unexpectedly shift into first gear while driving. At higher speeds, the sudden downshift could make the rear wheels slow down sharply or temporarily slide, increasing the risk of losing control. Ford addressed the issue by updating the truck's powertrain software.

J.D. Power gave the 2013 F-150 an Average 80/100 Quality & Reliability score.

Keep in mind that this issue doesn't apply to every 2013 F-150. If you're considering one, confirm which transmission it has, check the VIN for open recalls, and verify that any applicable recall repair was completed.

Average Used Price: $2,530 - $24,047

5. 2019 Ram 1500

The 2019 Ram 1500 was part of a redesigned generation, but its lower reliability score and documented safety recalls make certain trucks worth inspecting carefully.

The FCA recalled certain 2019 Ram 1500s because a loose battery ground connection could cause an intermittent loss of power-steering assistance. If this happened while driving, the effort required to steer could suddenly change and increase the risk of an accident.

Another recall also affected some trucks with power-adjustable pedals. The brake pedal could travel too far during adjustment and potentially separate from the pedal assembly, which could prevent the driver from braking normally.

J.D. Power gave the 2019 Ram 1500 a Fair 69/100 Quality & Reliability score.

However, not every 2019 Ram 1500 was affected by these issues. If you're considering one, check its VIN for open recalls and verify that any required repairs were completed.

Average Used Price: $10,869 - $33,664

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Can a "Worst" Used Truck Still Be Worth Buying?

Yes. Just because a truck appears on the "worst" used model year list doesn't automatically mean every vehicle produced that year is unreliable.

Some documented concerns only apply to specific:  

• Engines
 
• Transmissions
 
• Drivetrains
 
• Production dates
 
• Other configurations

A properly maintained pre-owned pickup with completed recall work and detailed service records may be a better buy than a model year on the "best" list that was poorly maintained.

What to Look for When Buying a Used Truck

Verify the Engine & Transmission

Identify the exact engine and transmission before buying a used truck. Two pickups from the same model year may have different powertrains, and documented reliability concerns may only apply to specific configurations.

Check the VIN for Open Recalls

Use the NHTSA recall lookup with the VIN to check if the specific used truck you're considering currently has an unrepaired safety recall. For older models, also review the dealership and service records for documentation showing if the previous recall work was completed.

Review Maintenance & Vehicle History

Look for consistent maintenance records, including:

• Oil changes
 
• Transmission service
 
• Cooling system maintenance
 
• Brake service
 
• Suspension and steering repairs
 
• Previous recall work

A vehicle history report can also help you find reported accidents, title issues, ownership history, and other information worth knowing before you buy.

Take the Truck for a Test Drive

Drive the used truck at both city and highway speeds. During your test drive, pay close attention to: 

• Engine noises
 
• Vibration
 
• Transmission shifts
 
• Steering behavior
 
• Braking
 
• Warning lights
 
• 4WD operation
 
• Suspension noises
 
• Climate control

A longer test drive gives you more time to identify potential problems than a quick trip around the dealership.

Get a Pre-Purchase Inspection

Even one of the best used trucks to buy can have problems after years of accidents, off-roading, towing, and poor maintenance.

We highly recommend hiring an independent qualified technician to inspect the following:

• Engine
 
• Transmission
 
• Brakes
 
• Steering
 
• Suspension
 
• Frame
 
• Fluids
 
• Tires
 
• 4WD system

Shop Reliable Used Trucks for Sale in Santa Fe, NM

At Octane GMC in Santa Fe, we offer used trucks from GMC and other popular automakers, including Chevrolet, Ford, Toyota, Ram, and more - giving you plenty of options to compare based on your budget and driving needs.

Browse our used trucks for sale below or contact us to schedule a test drive today!