Explore Used Pickup Trucks Prices Worth Considering
The American love affair with pickup trucks continues to grow, with these versatile vehicles dominating sales charts year after year. While new trucks come with impressive features and capabilities, the used pickup market offers exceptional value for budget-conscious buyers. Understanding the landscape of used pickup trucks, their pricing trends, and how to secure the best deals can save you thousands while still getting a reliable vehicle that meets your needs.
Best Selling Pickup Trucks in the USA
The used truck market is heavily influenced by which models sell best when new. The Ford F-150 has maintained its crown as America’s best-selling vehicle for over four decades, creating a robust used market. Close behind are the Chevrolet Silverado, Ram 1500, Toyota Tacoma, and GMC Sierra. These popular trucks maintain strong resale values due to their reputation for reliability and capability.
The F-150’s aluminum body (introduced in 2015) offers better fuel efficiency and corrosion resistance, making models from 2015 onward particularly desirable in the used market. Meanwhile, the Toyota Tacoma stands out for exceptional longevity, with many examples easily surpassing 200,000 miles when properly maintained.
Understanding Used Pickup Truck Prices
Used pickup truck prices vary significantly based on several factors: age, mileage, trim level, drivetrain, cab configuration, and overall condition. For example, a three-year-old Ford F-150 XLT with 36,000 miles will command a substantially different price than a seven-year-old base model with 100,000 miles.
Trucks with four-wheel drive typically command premiums of $2,000-$4,000 over their two-wheel-drive counterparts. Similarly, crew cab models (with four full-sized doors) generally cost $3,000-$5,000 more than regular cab variants of the same year and condition.
Regional factors also influence pricing. In snow-prone northern states, 4x4 trucks command higher premiums during winter months. In agricultural areas, heavy-duty models like the Ford F-250 or Chevrolet Silverado 2500 often retain higher values due to constant demand from farmers and ranchers.
Benefits of Buying Used Pickup Trucks
The most compelling reason to consider a used pickup truck is depreciation avoidance. New trucks typically lose 20-30% of their value in the first year alone. Buying a two to three-year-old truck can provide substantial savings while still offering relatively modern features and plenty of remaining useful life.
Used trucks often come with lower insurance costs compared to their new counterparts. Additionally, registration fees in many states are based on vehicle value, resulting in further savings for used truck owners.
Many modern pickup trucks are built for exceptional durability, designed to last well beyond 200,000 miles with proper maintenance. This longevity makes three to five-year-old trucks with moderate mileage particularly attractive value propositions, as they often have more than a decade of useful service remaining.
Popular Used Pickup Truck Models Worth Considering
When shopping for used pickup trucks, certain models stand out for their combination of value, reliability, and features. The 2015-2018 Ford F-150 generations represent excellent value, offering the aluminum body benefits while having weathered significant depreciation. The 2014-2018 Chevrolet Silverado provides robust capability with the reliability of GM’s proven powertrains.
For midsize truck seekers, the 2016-2019 Toyota Tacoma offers legendary reliability with modern features, while the 2015-2018 GMC Canyon and Chevrolet Colorado twins provide more refined interiors and impressive capabilities in a smaller package.
Diesel options like the Ram 1500 EcoDiesel (2014-2018) deliver exceptional fuel economy while maintaining strong towing capabilities, though they typically command price premiums of $4,000-$6,000 over comparable gasoline models.
Price Comparison of Popular Used Pickup Trucks
| Model | Year Range | Typical Mileage | Average Price Range |
|---|---|---|---|
| Ford F-150 XLT Crew Cab | 2017-2019 | 35,000-60,000 | $28,000-$35,000 |
| Chevrolet Silverado 1500 LT | 2017-2019 | 40,000-65,000 | $27,000-$34,000 |
| Ram 1500 Big Horn | 2017-2019 | 40,000-70,000 | $26,000-$33,000 |
| Toyota Tacoma SR5 Double Cab | 2017-2019 | 30,000-60,000 | $27,000-$32,000 |
| GMC Sierra 1500 SLE | 2017-2019 | 35,000-65,000 | $28,000-$36,000 |
| Nissan Titan SV Crew Cab | 2017-2019 | 40,000-70,000 | $24,000-$30,000 |
Prices, rates, or cost estimates mentioned in this article are based on the latest available information but may change over time. Independent research is advised before making financial decisions.
How to Get Good Deals on Used Pickup Trucks
Timing your purchase strategically can yield significant savings. December often sees dealers offering year-end incentives to clear inventory, while tax return season (February-April) typically brings higher demand and consequently higher prices.
Consider expanding your search radius. Traveling 100-200 miles for the right truck can save thousands, particularly if you’re shopping across different market types (urban vs. rural). Online marketplaces make this geographical arbitrage increasingly accessible.
Private party sales typically offer prices 10-15% lower than dealer prices, though they lack the convenience of financing options and return policies. Certified pre-owned programs through manufacturers provide peace of mind with comprehensive inspections and extended warranties, albeit at premium prices.
When evaluating a used truck, prioritize maintenance history over cosmetic condition. A well-maintained truck with some minor scratches will likely provide better long-term value than a cosmetically perfect example with neglected maintenance. Always request service records and consider a pre-purchase inspection by an independent mechanic, which typically costs $100-$200 but can identify potential issues before they become expensive problems.
The used pickup truck market offers tremendous value for informed buyers. By understanding pricing factors, focusing on reliable models, and implementing strategic shopping tactics, you can secure a dependable truck that meets your needs without the steep depreciation hit of buying new.
