Best Used Trucks to Buy in 2026 (And Which Years to Avoid)

The best used trucks to buy in 2026 are the Toyota Tundra (2014 to 2021), the Toyota Tacoma (2016 to 2023), the Ford F-150 (2016, 2019 and 2020), the Chevy Silverado (2015 to 2016 and 2020 to 2022) and the Ram 1500 (2013 to 2015 and 2021 to 2023), with the Nissan Frontier (2015 to 2021) as the budget midsize pick. The years to avoid are the ones with known engine or transmission failures, such as the 2011, 2012 and 2018 F-150, the 2007 to 2009 Silverado and the 2009 to 2012 Ram 1500.

Below you will find the best years and years to avoid for each truck, what the common repairs cost, and a checklist to use before you buy. Shopping on a set budget? See our comparison of the best used trucks under $30,000.

Best Used Trucks and Years to Avoid at a Glance

Why Used Trucks Are a Smart Buy in 2026

2026 is a good year to buy a used truck. Prices have leveled off after the swings of 2021 to 2023, and there is plenty of inventory of trucks old enough to have lost most of their depreciation but young enough to run for years.

For most buyers the sweet spot is a 2013 to 2023 truck from one of the good years below. You could buy a 2010 F-150 for very little, but at that age maintenance and repair bills can quickly wipe out the savings. The key is knowing which model years hold up and which ones develop expensive engine or transmission problems as they age.

Best Used Full-Size Trucks: F-150, Silverado, Ram 1500 and Tundra

Ford F-150: Best Years and Years to Avoid

The F-150 is the best-selling truck in America, so used ones are easy to find and parts are everywhere. The trick is picking the right year.

Best years to buy: 2016, 2019 and 2020 (13th generation, 2015 to 2020), plus 2014 if your budget is tighter. The 5.0L V8 is the simplest engine to own. The 3.5L and 2.7L EcoBoost engines are strong but cost more to keep: a single turbo replacement runs $1,800 to $3,000, and an internal coolant leak can mean a new engine at $7,000 to $10,000.

Years to avoid: 2011, 2012 and 2018. The 2011 and 2012 trucks had first-generation EcoBoost problems and cam phaser failures. The 2018 model combines 10-speed transmission complaints, oil consumption on the 5.0L V8 and a plastic oil pan that can crack.

Check carefully: 2015 and 2017. 2015 was the first year of the aluminum body, and door latch failures show up through 2017. 2017 brought the first 10-speed automatic. On any 2017 to 2020 truck, test for harsh shifts and gear hunting: a failed 10-speed costs $4,500 to $6,000 to fix.

Older trucks: 2004 to 2010 F-150s with the 5.4L Triton V8 are known for cam phaser failures and, on 2004 to 2008 trucks, spark plug problems. A cam phaser job on this engine costs $2,500 to $4,000, and these trucks are now 16 to 22 years old.

For every year and repair, see our complete Ford F-150 reliability guide.

Chevy Silverado: Best Years and Years to Avoid

A used Silverado often costs less than a comparable F-150, which can make it the better value. The 5.3L V8 is known for long life when it is maintained.

Best years to buy: 2015 to 2016 and 2020 to 2022. The 2015 and 2016 trucks have a more refined cylinder deactivation system (AFM), fewer oil consumption complaints and solid transmissions. The 2020 to 2022 trucks pair a mature version of that system (now called DFM) with a proven 10-speed automatic, but they cost more.

Years to avoid: 2007 to 2009, 2012 to 2013 and 2017 to 2018. The main problem on 2007 to 2013 trucks is lifter failure on the 5.3L V8, plus transmission shudder in the 4-speed automatic, usually between 80,000 and 120,000 miles. Fixing failed lifters costs $4,000 to $5,000. The 2017 and 2018 trucks still show oil consumption and transmission glitches.

Check carefully: on 2019 to 2021 trucks with the 5.3L V8, listen for knocking or pinging on the test drive.

The GMC Sierra shares these years and problems. Learn more in our detailed Silverado and GMC Sierra guide.

Ram 1500: Best Years and Years to Avoid

If you spend long hours in the cab, the Ram 1500 has the most comfortable interior and ride of the domestic trucks.

Best years to buy: 2013 to 2015 (4th generation, 2009 to 2018) and 2021 to 2023 (5th generation, 2019 on). By 2013 most early bugs were fixed, and the 2014 and 2015 trucks get the best owner ratings of the 4th generation. The 2021 to 2023 trucks fixed most early 5th-generation problems.

Years to avoid: 2009 to 2012 and 2019 to 2020. Early 4th-generation trucks suffer power module (TIPM) failures, the 5.7L HEMI "tick" from failed lifters, often after 80,000 miles, and 8-speed transmission shudder. The 2019 and 2020 trucks had oil leaks, infotainment glitches, eTorque mild-hybrid battery failures and transmission software problems. A HEMI lifter repair costs $3,500 to $6,000.

Check carefully: on 2016 to 2018 trucks, watch for the idle dropping too low at stops. Older 2006 to 2008 trucks are now 18 to 20 years old, so buy one only after a full inspection.

For complete details, visit our RAM 1500 reliability guide.

Toyota Tundra: Best Years and Years to Avoid

The Tundra is Toyota's full-size truck. It has the lowest average yearly repair cost of the full-size trucks in this guide, about $987 once the factory warranty ends.

Best years to buy: 2014 to 2021, and 2022 to 2023 if your budget allows. The 2014 to 2021 trucks are 5 to 12 years old and use the 5.7L V8 with a smooth 6-speed automatic. With regular service they can pass 200,000 miles. The 2022 and 2023 trucks are a newer design with more technology, at a much higher price.

Check carefully: 2007 to 2013. These trucks are 13 to 19 years old. Owners report valve cover gasket leaks, carbon buildup and some transmission problems. A well-documented truck can still be a bargain, but you take on more repair risk.

Best Used Midsize Trucks: Tacoma and Frontier

Toyota Tacoma: Best Model Years to Buy

The Tacoma is the most dependable midsize pickup in this guide, and used ones hold their value well.

Best years to buy: 2016 to 2023 (3rd generation), with 2016 to 2019 the best value. The 3.5L V6 is durable, the 6-speed automatic is smooth and build quality is excellent. These trucks cost more to buy than a Frontier, and Toyota parts and labor cost more (see the repair table below). The 2020 to 2023 models add more technology and comfort.

Check carefully: 2005 to 2015 (2nd generation). Fans love these trucks, but they are now 11 to 21 years old. Expect worn trim, failing electronics and rust in northern states. A late, well-kept truck with service records can still be a good buy.

Nissan Frontier: Best Budget Midsize Truck

Many buyers overlook the Frontier because they focus on Toyota and Ford, which can mean better deals for you.

Best years to buy: 2015 to 2021. The V6 engines are solid, and the 2015 to 2019 trucks use a proven 5-speed automatic. A Frontier costs less than a comparable Tacoma and has the lowest routine service costs in the table below. The trade-off is weaker resale value than a Toyota.

Check carefully: 2005 to 2014. These trucks are 12 to 21 years old and some had transmission problems. One may still run well, but expect higher maintenance costs.

Used Truck Repair Costs to Budget Before You Buy

When you buy a used truck, budget for both routine service and the big repairs that end ownership early. These are typical costs for the trucks in this guide:

These are estimates and vary by location and shop. Routine service costs the least on the Frontier. Toyota parts and labor cost more, so a Tacoma or Tundra transmission costs more to replace than a Frontier one. The F-150 figure is high because its 10-speed automatic is expensive to fix when it fails.

For more detail, see our transmission replacement cost guide and engine replacement cost guide.

Protect the big repairs. Oil changes and brake pads are yours to budget. A failed transmission or engine is different. A CoverageX vehicle service contract can pay for covered breakdowns after the factory warranty ends: Essential covers the engine, transmission and drivetrain, and Executive covers everything except the parts the contract lists as excluded. CoverageX pays the licensed repair shop directly, and problems that existed before coverage started are not covered. Get an instant quote with your truck's year, make, model and mileage, or call 1-800-258-3413.

Which Used Truck Should You Buy?

Full-Size: F-150 vs. Silverado vs. Ram vs. Tundra

• Toyota Tundra: the lowest average yearly repair cost after the factory warranty, about $987. Best for heavy towing with Toyota dependability, but it costs more to buy.
• Chevy Silverado: the best value. Usually cheaper to buy than an F-150, with average yearly repairs of about $1,298.
• Ford F-150: the widest choice and strong resale value, with average yearly repairs of about $1,345. Pick a good year and the 5.0L V8 for the simplest ownership.
• Ram 1500: the most comfortable interior and ride, but the highest average yearly repairs of the four, about $1,456.

Midsize: Tacoma vs. Frontier

• Toyota Tacoma: the most dependable, with the highest resale value but higher repair costs. Best if you will keep the truck 10 years or more.
• Nissan Frontier: the best midsize value and cheaper to service. Best if price matters more than resale value.

Match the truck to the job. For livestock trailers and heavy towing, look at a Tundra or Ram 1500. For weekend projects around the house, a Tacoma or Frontier is usually enough. For an all-round work and family truck, an F-150 or Silverado from a good year is hard to beat.

Used Truck Buying Checklist

Before you hand over your money, do this:

• Get a pre-purchase inspection. Not a visual walk-around. A mechanic's inspection usually costs $100 to $200 and can save you thousands. On a 4x4, ask the mechanic to check the transfer case for leaks, the driveshaft and U-joints, and the frame for rust and past repairs. Our pre-purchase inspection checklist and used car inspection checklist cover the rest.
• Check the vehicle history. Use Carfax or AutoCheck. Look for accidents, service records and open recalls.
• Test drive, then test drive again. Drive on the highway, around town and from a cold start. Listen for transmission slips or harsh shifts, check the steering and test the brakes.
• Ask specific questions. When was the transmission last serviced? Has any engine work been done? Has it towed, and how much? How many owners has it had? Any rust, especially in northern states?
• Negotiate based on condition. Don't accept the first price. Use the inspection results as leverage: a missing transmission service history justifies a lower price, while recent brake work is a plus.
• Budget for surprise repairs. Even after a good inspection, set aside at least $500 to $1,000 for the first year, more if the truck is in the higher mileage range.

Red Flags: When to Walk Away

Some things should make you immediately walk away from a truck:

• Transmission slipping or grinding - This isn't a minor fix
• Engine light flashing (not just on steady) - This indicates serious problems
• Obvious rust, especially frame rust - Structural damage is expensive and dangerous
• No service history - You don't know what's been done or ignored
• Salvage title - You'll struggle to resell it, and insurance is problematic
• Multiple owner changes - Why did all these people get rid of it?
• Any sign of serious accidents - Even "fixed" accidents can hide problems
• Transmission fluid that smells burned - Catastrophic transmission failure is imminent

When in doubt, walk away. There's always another truck.

Where an Extended Warranty Fits on a Used Truck

Most trucks from the best years above are already past their factory warranty. That leaves two ways to handle a big repair: pay from savings, or use a vehicle service contract, often called an extended car warranty.

• It can make sense when: the truck is out of factory warranty, it has one of the costly known issues in this guide (10-speed, lifters, turbos), and a transmission or engine bill would strain your budget. Our guide to extended warranties for high-mileage vehicles explains the options past 100,000 miles.
• It is usually not worth it when: the truck is still under factory warranty, you plan to sell it within 12 to 18 months, or you could pay for a major repair from savings. See when not to buy an extended warranty.

A contract does not replace maintenance: oil changes, brakes and tires are not covered, and neither are problems that existed before coverage. Every CoverageX plan includes 24/7 roadside assistance with no deductible for towing, and you can take the truck to any licensed repair shop. Compare plan prices with the cost of the repairs above in our extended car warranty cost guide, or see how CoverageX works.

Best Used Trucks: Frequently Asked Questions

Which used truck has the cheapest repairs over time?

Among full-size pickups, the Toyota Tundra has the lowest average yearly repair bill after the factory warranty, about $987. The Silverado averages about $1,298, the F-150 about $1,345 and the Ram 1500 about $1,456. For routine service, the Nissan Frontier costs the least. Model year and service history still matter more than the badge. See the cheapest cars to maintain.

What mileage is too high for a used truck?

There is no fixed cutoff. A well-maintained Tundra, or a Silverado with the 5.3L V8, can pass 200,000 miles, while a truck with no service records can fail much sooner. Past 100,000 miles, ask for transmission service records, get an inspection and set aside $500 to $1,000 for first-year repairs. Read what to expect from a car with 100,000 miles.

Should I buy a full-size truck or a midsize truck used?

Buy full-size if you tow heavy loads often: a Tundra can tow about 10,000 to 11,500 pounds, roughly twice a Tacoma's 5,000 to 6,000 pounds. A midsize truck is easier to park and cheaper to run, and the Frontier has the lowest routine service costs in this guide. For weekend projects and light trailers, a midsize truck is usually enough.

Which truck brands hold up best past 100,000 miles?

Toyota has the strongest record: the Tundra's 5.7L V8 and the Tacoma's 3.5L V6 often run past 200,000 miles with regular service. Chevy's 5.3L V8 can last as long, but check for lifter problems. Ford and Ram trucks last well too when their known issues, cam phasers on the F-150 and the HEMI tick on the Ram, have been fixed.

Is a used Ford F-150 a good buy?

Yes, if you pick the right year. The 2016, 2019 and 2020 F-150s are among the strongest used buys, and 2014 is a solid budget choice. Avoid 2011, 2012 and 2018 trucks, and test any 2017 to 2020 truck for 10-speed shifting problems, since a failed transmission costs $4,500 to $6,000. See the F-150 problems by year.

What is the best Toyota Tacoma model year to buy used?

For most buyers, a 2016 to 2019 Tacoma is the best value. It has the 3rd-generation design with the durable 3.5L V6 and plenty of life left. The 2020 to 2023 trucks add technology at a higher price. Tacomas from 2005 to 2015 are now 11 to 21 years old, so buy one only with service records and an inspection.

Is an extended warranty worth it on a used truck?

It can be, if the truck is past its factory warranty and one transmission or engine repair, often $2,500 to $10,000 on these trucks, would strain your budget. It is usually not worth it if the truck is still under factory warranty, you plan to sell within 12 to 18 months, or you can pay for a big repair from savings. See when not to buy an extended warranty.

Can I get an extended warranty on a used truck?

Yes. CoverageX plans cover cars, trucks and SUVs. Essential covers the engine, transmission and drivetrain, while Executive covers everything except the parts the contract lists as excluded. Your quote shows which plans fit your truck's age and mileage. Problems that existed before coverage started are not covered. Start with CoverageX auto protection.

The Bottom Line

Buying a used truck in 2026 does not have to be complicated. Stick to the best years above, skip the years with known engine and transmission failures, get an inspection and negotiate on condition.

For the full buying process, read our comprehensive used car buying guide, then keep your truck healthy with this maintenance schedule for your used truck. To compare other models, see our vehicle reliability guides by model or browse the learning center.

Found your truck? Whether its factory warranty is about to run out or already has, get an instant quote with the year, make, model and mileage to see which CoverageX plans fit. Prefer to talk it through? Call 1-800-258-3413.