When folks drive their trucks, they often expect a lot. They want rough and tumble power, yet a ride that can be driven daily.
They want something that can be pushed to the limit, but also looks good. Used trucks that fit this criteria can be limited. But,
more and more are choosing to purchase a used truck, and they are starting to take a close look at the specific details of buying a used truck,
as well as the performance and features that they need. The lines between work trucks and the family vehicles have begun to blur.
More truck buyers are opting for used trucks that offer the ride, comfort and amenities of upscale vehicles, while delivering the same rugged
durability and performance those trucks traditionally provide. Those in the market for a used truck should certainly do some research to
make sure you pick a suitable vehicle.
Tips for Those Planning to Buy a Used Trucks:
Search Online for the Reliability of the Model that Interest
If this used truck has a bad reputation for dependability and/or recalls, they will be given poor reviews on forums and message boards from
people with experience with that particular model.
Look for a Used Truck that is Still under the Manufacturer's Warranty
Most late models will still be under the standard manufacturer’s 36 Month/36,000 mile warranty, with the engine and transmission often under
warranty for much longer. Double-check to make sure that the used truck’s warranty can be transferred to you.
Find a truck that is Certified, Pre-Owned (CPO)
Used trucks with CPO stickers have been rigorously tested and have had any needed maintenance taken care of before they appear on the lot.
This certification is typically backed by the truck manufacturer and if a problem arises, most repair costs will be covered.
Buy a CARFAX Report
It may save you a ton of money in the long run. The VIN (Vehicle Identification Number) can be submitted to see if this used truck has been in
any accidents, recalls, or floods.
Take the Used Truck to a Certified mechanic for an Inspection
Have this done before any official purchase happens, and make sure the mechanic has no ties to the dealership. If the dealer disagrees with
this provision, take your business elsewhere.
Used Trucks with High Customer Satisfaction Levels
When selecting the make and model of the truck you are searching for, there are certain ones that carry the highest in customer
satisfaction. There are three main categories: light trucks, mid-sized trucks, and full-size trucks.
Best Used Light Trucks
Honda Ridgeline
The Ridgeline rated consistent with drivers for great interior comfort, best road performance, and reliability. It carries a
255-horsepower V-6 engine with full-time all wheel drive, and has a towing capacity of 5,000 pounds. There is an innovative, lockable trunk
located under the watertight truck bed and the dual-action tailgate for ease of loading. The Ridgeline received the highest rating for frontal-
and side-impact crash tests and had the lowest chance for rollover among all the trucks tested by the NHTSA (National Highway Traffic Safety
Administration).
Nissan Frontier
Nissan introduced the Frontier over 15 years ago, and its rugged dependability and performance continues to remain towards the top of its
class. Used truck models come equipped with a wide variety of engine types, from economy to heavier workload performances, plus different
body styles to select from, which is a plus for used truck buyers. There is a spray-on bed liner and adjustable, sliding cleats for secure
cargo hauling in these used trucks. The engine is quiet for a truck and responds well in on and off road conditions.
Best Used Midsize Trucks
Toyota Tacoma
The Tacoma brings reliability and excells in overall performance. A plus is that it comes in 18 different style variations including regular,
extended-cab, and double-cab body styles as well as short and long beds. This used truck also comes in 2- and 4-wheel drive models, and has
many different engine options. The flexible deck rail system with 4 adjustable tie-down cleats easily handles every type of cargo and the
resale value of these used trucks is best in this class.
Best Used Full-Size Trucks
Ford F-150
The F-150 has been the best-selling full-size truck for almost 30 years. It has high performance, great interior comfort and works well
off-road. This working machine comes in a wide array of body and power-train configurations and features both V-6 and V-8 engines with exceptional
towing capacity.
The F-150 is also the only used truck in its class to receive the NHTSA's 5-star rating for frontal-crash safety.
Nissan Titan
The Nissan Titan gives Ford some serious competition. The trucks areviewed as near-equals in most categories, with the Titan getting a small
edge in tow capacity and power from a standard 5.6 Liter V-8. The Titan’s ride may be a bit harsher than the F-150, but both trucks offer similar
mileage and resale value.