Most reliable trucks
Pickup trucks
With so many used trucks available on the market, you might be wondering which one is the ideal choice for you and your lifestyle.
We've compiled a list of the 10 most reliable used trucks with CarMax customers. Learn more about how our lists work.
1. Ram 1500 Classic
CarMax owner rating
4.8
Pros
V6 or V8 powertrain options Warlock trim has robust off-roading chops Pleasingly smooth ride
Cons
Limited trim options Design details are few and far between
2. Toyota Tacoma
CarMax owner rating
4.5
Pros
Useful truck bed has power outlet and moveable tie-down cleats Consummate off-road agility Six-speed manual transmission option for the V6 top trim
Cons
Steering feels heavy on urban surfaces Some will find the higher step-up a challenge
3. Nissan Frontier
CarMax owner rating
4.5
Pros
Smooth ride Stable and secure handling Helpful storage spaces for small items
Cons
Limited rear-seat space Cluttered infotainment system Heavy steering
4. GMC Canyon
CarMax owner rating
4.3
Pros
Plenty of trim and feature options Sophisticated handling across diverse terrain Passenger-pleasing interior Intuitive infotainment tech
Cons
No additional cab or bed length options Doesn't go easy on fuel
5. Ford Ranger
CarMax owner rating
4.4
Pros
Turbocharged engine does not disappoint Dimensions make city driving easier Seating upfront is well-padded and comfortable
Cons
Climate control functionality can be frustrating Bumpy ride Cab storage options are limited
6. Honda Ridgeline
CarMax owner rating
4.7
Pros
Clever bed configurations Spacious crew cab Upscale interior
Cons
Doesn't offer as much utility as similar vehicles Not very off-road focused Relatively small touchscreen
7. Chevrolet Colorado
CarMax owner rating
4.3
Pros
Swift acceleration with upgraded engines Stout towing abilities Capable ZR2 off-road trim
Cons
Lackluster base engine power Uncomfortable rear seats Available only with a four-door cab and five-foot bed
8. Nissan Titan
CarMax owner rating
4.5
Pros
Comfortable cabin Standard V8 engine Lots of standard driver-assist features
Cons
V8 is thirsty Maximum towing capacity isn't as good as rivals' Lack of choice when it comes to engine and axle options
9. Ram 1500
CarMax owner rating
4.5
Pros
Plenty of useful cabin storage The benchmark light-duty truck for ride quality
Cons
Driver-assist technology only offered on upper trims Small rearview mirror
Frequently asked questions about truck reliability
The most reliable pickup truck in 2023 is the Toyota Tacoma, with a RepairPal Reliability Rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars.
The Ram 1500 is a popular choice for truck buyers in 2023, based on CarMax sales data over a recent 6-month period (August 2022 - February 2023).
Based on RepairPal Reliability Ratings, the Ford Ranger and Chevrolet Colorado are among the most reliable used trucks. However, the specific pricing of these trucks can vary based on factors such as the truck's condition, mileage, location, and the market price at the time of purchase.
RepairPal reliability ratings
For this article we've pulled the top 7 most reliable trucks—in order—according to RepairPal rankings. RepairPal Reliability Ratings are based on the actual cost, frequency, and severity of unscheduled repairs and maintenance on make/model data for select 2006-2020 vehicles. The reliability of a specific vehicle may vary depending on its maintenance and driving history, model year, trim, and features. RepairPal Reliability Ratings are provided by RepairPal and CarMax is not responsible for their accuracy. These ratings and rankings are based on RepairPal Reliability data as of 3/21/2023. Learn more about RepairPal reliability ratings.
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Various factors may impact towing capacity, including weight of passengers, cargo, and options/accessories.
Fuel economy figures are based on EPA estimates for when vehicle sold as new. Fuel economy may vary for reasons like driving conditions and vehicle history. Unless specified, figures are for vehicles equipped with an automatic transmission. See fueleconomy.gov.
Ready to find your next pickup truck?
We hope you found this information helpful. This content is intended to inform and is not meant to indicate that a particular vehicle is currently available or recommended for you.
Statements of fuel economy or EV range are based on EPA and other third-party estimates for vehicles when new. Fuel economy and EV range will degrade with time and vary based on age, driving conditions, vehicle history, and other conditions. See fueleconomy.gov for more info.
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We make every effort to provide accurate information, but please verify before purchasing.