The 5 Most Reliable Used Pickup Trucks You Can Buy – Consumer Reports Picks
Bottom line: Consumer Reports ranks these five used pickups as the most dependable choices for budget‑savvy drivers who need a workhorse that won’t break down.

The 5 Most Reliable Used Pickup Trucks You Can Buy – Consumer Reports Picks
Image: The 5 Most Reliable Used Pickup Trucks You Can Buy – Consumer Reports Picks – Performance Comparison and Specifications
Design & Looks
Even a used truck can turn heads. The models on this list keep a classic, muscular profile while offering modern touches like LED headlights and updated interiors.
- Toyota Tacoma: Rugged, off‑road‑ready look with a functional cabin.
- Toyota Tundra: Full‑size presence, bold grille, and refined cabin.
- Ford F‑150: Iconic shape, refreshed front end, and comfortable seating.
- Chevrolet Silverado 1500: Sturdy stance, simple controls, and roomy interior.
- Honda Ridgeline: Sleek crossover‑style design, smoother lines.
Performance & Mileage
Reliability isn’t just about lasting years; it’s also about getting the job done without guzzling fuel.
- Toyota Tacoma: 2.7‑L 4‑cyl or 3.5‑L V6, 20‑22 mpg city, 23‑26 mpg highway.
- Toyota Tundra: 5.7‑L V8, 13‑15 mpg city, 17‑19 mpg highway.
- Ford F‑150: 2.7‑L EcoBoost to 5.0‑L V8, 20‑23 mpg city, 26‑28 mpg highway.
- Chevrolet Silverado 1500: 4.3‑L V6 to 5.3‑L V8, 16‑18 mpg city, 22‑24 mpg highway.
- Honda Ridgeline: 3.5‑L V6, 18‑20 mpg city, 24‑26 mpg highway.
Price & Rivals
All five trucks hold strong resale values, but you can still find good deals under $30,000 for models 5‑7 years old.
- Toyota Tacoma: $22k‑$28k – beats many compact pickups.
- Toyota Tundra: $25k‑$32k – solid rival to older F‑150s.
- Ford F‑150: $20k‑$30k – a wide price spread gives flexibility.
- Chevrolet Silverado 1500: $21k‑$29k – comparable to the F‑150.
- Honda Ridgeline: $23k‑$30k – unique blend of truck and SUV.
| Model | Engine | Mileage (mpg) | Price (USD) | Top Features |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Toyota Tacoma | 2.7 L 4‑cyl / 3.5 L V6 | 20‑26 | $22k‑$28k | Off‑road packages, strong resale, low maintenance |
| Toyota Tundra | 5.7 L V8 | 13‑19 | $25k‑$32k | Full‑size power, durable frame, high tow rating |
| Ford F‑150 | 2.7‑L EcoBoost – 5.0 L V8 | 20‑28 | $20k‑$30k | Versatile engine line, many tech options, strong network |
| Chevrolet Silverado 1500 | 4.3‑L V6 – 5.3 L V8 | 16‑24 | $21k‑$29k | Robust payload, easy‑to‑service, comfortable ride |
| Honda Ridgeline | 3.5 L V6 | 18‑26 | $23k‑$30k | Crossover feel, smooth ride, in‑bed trunk |
FAQ
- What is the average mileage of a reliable used Toyota Tacoma? Expect 20‑26 mpg combined, depending on the engine.
- Is the Ford F‑150 worth buying used? Yes—its variety of engines and strong dealer network keep ownership costs low.
- How does the Honda Ridgeline compare to traditional pickups? It offers a smoother ride and more cargo flexibility, though its tow capacity is lower than full‑size rivals.
Got a favorite used truck? Share your experience in the comments below!
Source: Read Official News