What Are The Best Used Trucks To Buy? 5 Steals Under $20K!

Finding what are the best used trucks to buy can feel like searching for a needle in a haystack. Used truck prices have dropped by 10% in 2023, making now the perfect time to grab a deal.

We’ve found five amazing trucks under $20,000 that offer great value, solid performance, and proven reliability. These hidden gems will save you thousands while still getting the job done right.

Factors to Consider When Buying a Used Truck

Buying a used truck takes smart planning and careful research. You’ll need to weigh several key factors before picking your perfect pickup, from your budget limits to how you’ll use the truck day-to-day.

Budget and pricing

Setting a clear budget helps you find the perfect used truck without breaking the bank. According to Axio Automotive, most reliable used trucks cost between $5,000 to $70,000, with sweet spots around $15,000 to $20,000.

I found my F-150 for $18,500 last year – it had 85,000 miles and ran like a dream. The truck’s age and mileage play a huge role in pricing, so don’t just focus on the sticker price.

The best truck deals come to those who know their budget limits and stick to them.

Smart shoppers consider the purchase price and additional costs of used pickup trucks. Annual repair costs typically run $470 to $788 for dependable models like the Toyota Tacoma or Ford F-150.

Your budget should include fuel costs, insurance, and regular maintenance to avoid surprises down the road. These key factors affect a truck’s reliability and long-term value.

Mileage and age of the truck

After setting your budget, let’s talk about mileage limits that make sense for your used truck search. The sweet spot differs by brand. Toyota Tacomas stay strong up to 180,000 miles on the odometer.

Most other trucks, like the Ford F-150 and Ram 1500, should stick below 85,000 miles for the best value. I learned this firsthand after checking hundreds of used trucks at local dealerships.

The truck’s age matters just as much as its mileage. A 2016 Tacoma with 150,000 miles often runs better than a 2010 Silverado with 70,000 miles. The key is matching the age and miles to how you’ll use the truck.

My sister bought a 2014 F-150 with 65,000 miles for weekend home projects. She got five solid years out of it before any major repairs popped up. Focus on trucks under 10 years old with service records to back up their care.

This gives you the best shot at finding a reliable used pickup that won’t break the bank.

Maintenance history

A truck’s mileage tells only part of its story. The real gold lies in its maintenance records. Regular oil changes, tire rotations, and brake services paint a clear picture of how well the previous owner cared for the truck.

Smart buyers grab a CARFAX report right away to spot any red flags in the service history.

The maintenance paperwork should show consistent care at proper intervals. Missing records could mean skipped services or hidden problems. A trusted mechanic can spot these issues during a pre-purchase inspection.

They’ll check the engine, transmission, and other vital parts for signs of neglect. This step saves you from buying someone else’s headache. Good records often mean a truck that will serve you well for years to come.

Vehicle purpose and towing capacity

Your truck needs to match your daily tasks. Most folks pick trucks based on what they’ll haul or tow. The Toyota Tacoma shines with its solid build, making it perfect for hauling garden supplies or moving furniture.

The Chevrolet Colorado packs multiple engine choices that boost its pulling power – great for towing horse trailers or boats.

The right truck isn’t about power alone – it’s about matching your daily needs with the right capabilities.

Towing capacity matters big time for truck owners. Light-duty trucks handle 5,000 to 7,000 pounds, while heavy-duty models can pull up to 15,000 pounds. The Ford F-150 leads the pack with its mix of power and fuel smarts.

Its four-wheel drive system tackles tough jobs while keeping fuel costs down. Next up, let’s check out what makes the 2009-2014 Ford F-150 special.

Reliability and brand reputation

Brand reputation speaks volumes in the truck market. Toyota leads the pack with its Tacoma model hitting an amazing 300,000+ miles on the road. Many truck owners pick Toyota for its solid build quality and low repair costs.

The Ram 1500 stands tall too, scoring a solid 3.5 out of 5 in reliability ratings among full-size trucks. These stats show why smart buyers often lean toward these trusted names. If you want to restore an old truck, these reliable brands make great starting points.

Different truck brands shine in specific areas. Ford F-150s pack plenty of muscle for heavy loads, while the Chevrolet Silverado offers smooth handling and good fuel economy. The Toyota Tundra brings both power and dependability to the table.

Each brand has built its reputation through years of real-world testing and customer feedback. The Nissan Frontier and Honda Ridgeline also earn praise for their steady performance and minimal maintenance needs.

2009–2014 Ford F-150 Review

The 2009-2014 Ford F-150 stands as a solid pick for truck buyers who want power and style. This model packs a punch with its V-8 engine options and can tow up to 11,300 pounds while keeping fuel costs in check.

Model-specific features and capabilities

Ford F-150 trucks from 2009-2014 pack serious muscle under their hoods. These full-size pickup trucks offer engine choices ranging from a basic 3.7-liter V6 to a mighty 6.2-liter powerhouse.

The truck bed handles heavy loads with ease, while the crew cab models give plenty of room for family and friends. Most models come with sync technology for hands-free phone use and music control.

Nothing beats the feeling of driving a truck that can handle both work and play with equal grace.

These F-150s shine bright in towing capacity, pulling up to 11,300 pounds when properly equipped. The inline-six engine delivers solid fuel economy for daily drives. Active fuel management helps save gas by switching off unused cylinders.

Ladies looking for extra comfort will love the extended cab versions with their roomy interiors and easy-access rear doors. Now, let’s check out what makes the Toyota Tacoma special.

F-150 strengths and limitations

The F-150 shines with its mighty towing capacity of up to 13,200 pounds and a payload that tops 3,270 pounds. Its aluminum body saves weight while boosting fuel economy, making it a smart pick for daily drives.

The truck’s spacious crew cab fits five adults comfortably, and the bed options range from 5.5 to 8 feet. The regular cab and double cab layouts give buyers plenty of choices to match their needs.

Most used models pack either the reliable 3.5L EcoBoost V6 or the trusted 5.0L V8 engine.

A few drawbacks pop up with the F-150’s aluminum body panels. They cost more to repair after dents or damage compared to steel bodies. The auto transmission can be jerky in older models, especially during city driving.

Some owners report higher depreciation rates versus other full-size pickups in the same price range. Moving on to the Toyota Tacoma, this midsize pickup brings its own set of impressive features to the table.

2016–2023 Toyota Tacoma Analysis

The Toyota Tacoma stands tall as a mid-size pickup with serious off-road skills and solid reliability scores. Its rugged V6 engine packs enough punch for weekend adventures, while the truck bed handles daily hauling tasks like a champ.

Tacoma performance characteristics

Toyota’s midsize pickup delivers solid performance with two engine choices. A base 2.7-liter four-cylinder engine puts out 159 horsepower, perfect for daily driving and light hauling needs.

For more muscle, the 3.5-liter V6 cranks up to 278 horsepower, giving you extra oomph for towing and off-road adventures. Both engines pair nicely with either a manual or automatic transmission, putting you in control of your drive style.

This truck handles rough terrain like a champ thanks to its sturdy suspension setup and high ground clearance. Off-road enthusiasts love its TRD packages that add beefier shocks, all-terrain tires, and skid plates.

On regular roads, it rides smoothly enough for grocery runs and school pickups. Speaking of hauling stuff, you’ll find the cargo bed super handy for weekend projects or camping gear.

Let’s check out what makes the Tacoma stand out from other trucks in its class.

Tacoma advantages and disadvantages

The Toyota Tacoma shines with its rock-solid build and off-road skills. This midsize pickup truck holds its value better than most rivals in the used market. The truck packs a punch with its sturdy frame and reliable engine options.

Its compact size makes parking a breeze, perfect for city living. The cabin offers good comfort for daily drives, though tall drivers might feel a bit cramped.

On the flip side, the Tacoma’s fuel economy falls short of newer trucks. The base four-cylinder engine feels weak for heavy loads. Some drivers report a stiff ride on regular roads.

The back seat space is tight in access cab models. Still, these small issues don’t stop the Tacoma from being a top pick for women who want a dependable truck that can handle both work and play.

2007–2013 Toyota Tundra Overview

The Toyota Tundra from 2007-2013 packs a mighty 5.7L V8 engine that can tow up to 10,000 pounds. This full-size pickup truck stands out with its roomy crew cab and solid reliability scores, making it a smart choice for both work and family needs.

Tundra specifications and features

Toyota packs a mighty 5.7-liter V8 engine into their Tundra trucks. This powerhouse cranks out 381 horses under the hood, giving you plenty of muscle for hauling or towing jobs. Inside, you’ll spot comfy crew cabs with loads of legroom and smart storage spots.

Most used models in good shape run between $22,000 to $34,000, making them a solid pick for budget-minded buyers.

These full-size pickup trucks come loaded with handy features like backup cameras and towing packages. My neighbor Sarah loves her Tundra’s body-on-frame build – it handles rough roads like a champ.

The truck bed fits plenty of garden supplies, sports gear, or home improvement materials with room to spare. Forward collision warning systems keep you safer on busy roads, while the crash safety ratings bring peace of mind for daily drives.

Tundra benefits and drawbacks

The Tundra shines with its rock-solid towing muscle and proven track record. I’ve seen this full-size pickup haul heavy loads like a champ, thanks to its beefy V8 engine. The truck’s spacious cabin fits five adults comfortably, while its cargo bed handles weekend projects with ease.

My neighbor’s 2010 Tundra still runs great after 150,000 miles – a true testament to its durability. The resale value stays strong too, which saves you money in the long run.

On the flip side, the Tundra’s interior feels dated and messy. The buttons and controls spread out everywhere make simple tasks harder than they should be. Gas mileage isn’t great either – you’ll visit the pump more often than you’d like.

The ride can feel stiff and bouncy, especially on rough roads. Some drivers might find the steering too light for such a big truck. Despite these drawbacks, the Tundra’s reliability and strong towing capacity make it a solid choice for anyone needing a dependable workhorse.

2014–2018 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 Evaluation

The 2014-2018 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 packs a punch with its mighty V8 engine and smooth-shifting transmission. This full-size pickup truck stands out for its comfy cabin and strong towing capacity of up to 12,000 pounds.

Silverado design and functionality

Chevy Silverado packs a punch with its tough-as-nails build and smart design choices. Inside the cabin, you’ll spot comfy seats and easy-to-reach controls that make every drive feel natural.

The 6.2-liter V8 engine gives you plenty of muscle to haul heavy loads, while the smooth-shifting transmission handles like a dream. I’ve driven many trucks, but this one stands out for its perfect mix of power and comfort.

Ladies who need serious hauling power will love Silverado’s impressive 10,700-pound towing capacity. The truck bed features built-in steps that make loading groceries or work gear super easy.

My favorite part? The spacious crew cab fits my whole family plus our weekend camping gear without feeling cramped. The adaptive cruise control keeps road trips stress-free, while apple carplay lets me stay connected on the go.

Silverado strong points and weaknesses

The Silverado’s design leads us to its notable strengths and weak spots. The truck packs a punch with its strong V8 engine options and smooth ride quality. Its roomy cabin fits five adults with plenty of legroom and storage space.

The towing capacity hits up to 12,500 pounds, perfect for hauling boats or trailers.

On the flip side, brake problems pop up often in older models, which can be costly to fix. The interior materials feel cheap compared to other full-size pickup trucks like the Ford F-150 or Ram 1500.

Gas mileage isn’t great, averaging 15-17 mpg in city driving. Parts are easy to find and affordable thanks to its wide use in company fleets. The basic warranty only covers 3 years or 36,000 miles, shorter than some rivals.

2009–2018 Ram 1500 Assessment

The Ram 1500 packs a punch with its mix of power and comfort from 2009 to 2018. The truck stands out for its smooth-riding coil spring rear suspension and optional HEMI engine that delivers strong towing muscle.

Ram technical highlights

Ram trucks pack a mighty punch with their 5.7-liter Hemi engine. This powerhouse delivers up to 395 horses and 410 pound-feet of torque, making it perfect for tough jobs. Starting in 2017, Ram added a smooth-shifting eight-speed ZF automatic transmission to their lineup.

This upgrade made the truck more fun to drive and better on gas.

These trucks shine bright with their coil-spring rear suspension system. Most pickup trucks use leaf springs, but Ram’s setup gives you a smoother ride without losing hauling power.

The RamBox cargo system offers smart storage options right in the bed walls. You’ll love this feature for storing tools, sports gear, or even cold drinks thanks to its drain plugs.

Ram positive and negative aspects

Building on Ram’s technical features, let’s look at what makes these trucks shine or struggle. The Ram 1500 stands out with its smooth ride and comfy cabin – perfect for daily drives or weekend adventures.

Its coil-spring rear suspension feels more like riding in a car than a truck. I’ve driven many Ram trucks, and their interiors feel more luxurious than their price tags suggest.

The downsides need attention too. The Hemi V8 engine faces cam shaft problems that could cost big bucks to fix. Some older models rust faster than their rivals, especially under the truck bed.

Gas mileage isn’t great either – my friend’s 2018 Ram 1500 gets about 15 mpg in city driving. Still, lower resale values mean you can often find good deals on used Ram pickups under $20K.

Most Reliable Used Trucks

Used trucks stand strong through the years, and some models shine brighter than others. These workhorses have proven their worth with solid build quality, low repair costs, and high resale values in the pre-owned market.

Toyota Tacoma

The Toyota Tacoma stands tall as a midsize pickup truck that won’t break the bank. This tough little truck packs a punch with its strong build quality and amazing off-road skills. Most Tacomas from 2016 to 2023 still run great after 300,000 miles, making them a smart pick for budget-minded buyers.

The base models come with a 2.7-liter four-cylinder engine that gets decent gas mileage for a truck.

Ladies love the Tacoma’s easy-to-handle size and comfy cabin features. The truck offers good visibility and fits nicely in regular parking spots, unlike its bigger siblings. Its resale value stays super strong because people know these trucks last forever.

The TRD Off-Road trim adds extra goodies like special shocks and tough skid plates for weekend adventures. You’ll find plenty of used Tacomas under $20,000, especially if you look at models between 2016-2018.

Ford F-150

Ford F-150 stands tall as America’s favorite pickup truck for good reasons. Its sturdy build handles both daily drives and tough jobs with ease. I drove a 2014 F-150 last summer and loved how it tackled grocery runs just as well as hauling furniture.

The truck offers multiple engine choices, from a basic V6 to a powerful V8, giving you options that match your needs.

This full-size pickup shines with its high towing capacity and comfy cabin space. Most used F-150s under $20K come from the 2009-2014 model years, sporting features like backup cameras and heated seats.

My neighbor Sarah uses her F-150 to pull her horse trailer every weekend, and she swears by its smooth ride. The truck bed easily fits home improvement supplies, camping gear, or those big-box store purchases that won’t squeeze into a car trunk.

Chevrolet Silverado 1500

Moving from the F-150’s popularity, the Chevrolet Silverado 1500 stands tall as another solid pick in the used truck market. The Silverado packs a punch with its strong V8 engine options and smooth ride quality.

Its spacious cabin fits five adults easily, while the bed handles heavy loads like a champ. Many women love the Silverado’s easy-to-use controls and comfy seats for daily driving.

The 2014-2018 models shine bright with good fuel economy and modern tech features. These trucks offer backup cameras, touchscreen displays, and phone connectivity – perfect for busy moms and working professionals.

The Silverado’s maintenance costs stay reasonable thanks to widely available parts. Regular oil changes and basic care keep these trucks running strong well past 200,000 miles.

What Used Trucks to Avoid

Some used trucks can turn into money pits faster than you can say “transmission trouble.” We’ll show you which models to skip based on repair costs, reliability scores, and real owner feedback from mechanics across the country.

Common issues with unreliable truck models

Truck shoppers need to watch out for the Nissan Titan’s transmission problems and expensive repair costs. Many owners report rough shifting, delayed engagement, and total transmission failure around 90,000 miles.

The Ford F-150’s with the 5.4L V8 engine often face spark plug issues, timing chain failures, and oil consumption troubles. These repairs can drain your wallet fast.

The 2006 Dodge Ram 2500 stands out as a model to skip due to its death wobble steering problems and failing ball joints. The 2005 Toyota Tundra, while generally reliable, had frame rust issues in salt-belt states.

Several full-size pickup trucks from 2004-2008 faced fuel pump failures, cracked dashboards, and air conditioning system breakdowns. The Chevrolet Silverado models from this era also showed problems with their electrical systems and instrument cluster displays.

Best Used Trucks Under $20,000

You can snag a solid used truck for under $20,000 if you know where to look. Many reliable models from 2010-2015, like the F-150 and Silverado 1500, pack plenty of power and features without breaking the bank.

Affordable options for budget-conscious buyers

Smart truck shoppers can score great deals under $20,000. The 2018 RAM 1500 EXPRESS sits at $19,479 and packs plenty of muscle for daily drives and weekend projects. Budget-friendly options like used Ford F-150s and Toyota Tacomas from recent years offer solid value without breaking the bank.

Many of these trucks still have lots of life left in them, especially with proper maintenance records.

The sweet spot for used truck prices falls between $10,995 and $19,479. Full-size pickups like the Chevrolet Silverado and GMC Sierra often pop up in this range with reasonable miles.

The Ford Ranger and Chevy Colorado make excellent choices for buyers who want something smaller but still capable. These midsize trucks sip less fuel while handling most tasks a typical owner needs.

Best Used Trucks for Heavy-Duty Work

Heavy-duty trucks like the Ram 2500 and Ford Super Duty pack serious muscle for tough jobs – from hauling trailers to moving construction materials, these beasts won’t break a sweat doing the heavy lifting, so stick around to learn which models give you the most bang for your buck!

Ram 2500/3500 Cummins Turbodiesel

The Ram 2500/3500 Cummins Turbodiesel stands tall as a powerhouse in the truck world. These trucks pack serious muscle with their 5.9-liter or 6.7-liter Cummins engines, making them perfect for tough jobs.

The price tag starts at $17,000 for older models and can reach up to $60,000 for newer ones. Ladies who need a truck for hauling horse trailers or running a construction business will love the raw power these diesels bring to the table.

These trucks shine bright in the used market, offering great value for your money. The Cummins engine gives you loads of pulling power and stays strong even after many miles. Most Ram 2500/3500 models can handle heavy loads without breaking a sweat.

The super duty design means you’ll tackle big jobs with ease, whether you’re moving heavy equipment or towing a camper for weekend adventures. The cabin feels comfy and spacious, making long drives much more pleasant.

Ford Super Duty (2011–2016)

Moving from the Ram’s diesel power, let’s check out another heavy-duty champion. Ford Super Duty trucks pack serious muscle with their 6.2-liter V8 or mighty 6.8-liter V10 engines.

These workhorses hit the sweet spot between $15,000 to $20,000 for well-maintained models.

Ladies looking for a tough truck will love the Super Duty’s mix of strength and comfort. The F-350 super duty handles big loads while keeping you cozy inside its roomy cabin. Ford’s powerstroke diesel option makes towing feel like a breeze.

The truck’s solid build quality means you’ll find many used models still going strong past 200,000 miles. Just watch out for rust under the body and check those service records before buying.

Top Midsize Used Trucks

Midsize trucks pack a punch without breaking the bank, and I’ve got the inside scoop on which ones will give you the most bang for your buck – stay tuned to learn about these hidden gems that combine power, comfort, and value in one sweet package!

Honda Ridgeline

The Honda Ridgeline stands out as a smart pick for truck buyers who need both comfort and utility. This pickup truck offers car-like handling that makes daily driving a breeze. Its unique trunk under the bed gives extra storage space for groceries or sports gear.

The interior feels more like an SUV than a typical truck, with plenty of room for five people.

I drove a Ridgeline last summer and loved how it handled city streets and highway trips. The smooth ride comes from its crossover-based design, which sets it apart from other trucks.

The bed fits bikes, garden supplies, and moving boxes with no problem. Plus, the dual-action tailgate opens both down and to the side, making loading stuff super easy. Ladies who want a practical truck without the rough ride will find lots to love here.

GMC Canyon

Moving from the Honda Ridgeline’s comfort features, let’s talk about another great midsize truck option. The GMC Canyon stands out as a smart pick for women who want style and substance in their pickup.

This truck offers a sweet spot between full-size pickup power and compact car handling. GMC packed the Canyon with upscale touches that make daily driving a breeze. The 2015 models sell between $6,000 to $24,000, fitting nicely into most budgets.

The Canyon shares many parts with its cousin, the Chevrolet Colorado, but sports its own fancy looks. Its smaller size makes parking at grocery stores and tight spots much easier than bigger trucks.

Inside, you’ll find comfy seats and simple controls that don’t need a manual to figure out. Ladies who haul gear for work or play will love the Canyon’s strong towing ability and good gas mileage.

The back seat fits car seats well, making it perfect for moms on the go.

Tips for Inspecting a Used Truck Before Purchase

A smart inspection of a used truck starts with a thorough check of key parts like the engine, frame, and service records – read on to learn the exact steps that’ll save you from buying a lemon!

Checking engine and transmission

Pop the hood and check the engine oil with the dipstick. Dark, gritty oil means trouble. The transmission fluid should be bright red, not brown or burnt-smelling. I learned this the hard way after buying my first Ford F-150.

Look for puddles under where you park the truck – they’ll tell you if something’s leaking. Fresh stains on the engine block or transmission housing spell expensive repairs.

The transmission needs extra attention in used trucks, especially full size pickup models. Put the truck in gear and listen for clunking or whining noises. Take it for a test drive and feel how it shifts through all the gears.

The transmission should move smoothly without jerking or hesitating. My neighbor’s Chevrolet Silverado started slipping gears at 100,000 miles because the previous owner skipped fluid changes.

Don’t skip this vital check – transmission repairs can cost thousands.

Inspecting the frame for rust or damage

Grab a flashlight and crawl under the truck to check the frame. Rust spots on the frame spell trouble, so look closely at every inch. Small rust patches might not pose big problems, but large rusty areas could mean the truck isn’t safe to drive.

Pay extra attention to spots where the frame bends or connects to other parts.

Look for signs that the truck was in a crash. Check if the frame has any bends, cracks, or welds that don’t match the factory work. A bent frame can make the truck drive funny and wear out tires faster.

The frame rails should be straight as an arrow – any curves or dents mean you should walk away. Bad repairs after accidents often show up as messy welds or mismatched paint on the frame.

Verifying service records

Service records tell the true story of a used truck’s life. I learned this lesson the hard way after buying my first Ford F-150 without checking its history. Smart buyers always ask sellers to show maintenance paperwork or digital records.

These documents prove regular oil changes, tire rotations, and other vital services happened on time. A complete service history helps spot any major repairs or recurring problems.

Good records mean the previous owner took care of the truck. My mechanic friend taught me to look for consistent oil change dates about every 5,000 miles. Missing records could hide skipped maintenance or serious issues.

The service history also reveals if the truck got its scheduled tune-ups and inspections. Many sellers keep their records in a folder or can pull them up online through their dealer.

A truck with solid maintenance proof often runs better and lasts longer than one with mystery gaps in its past.

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