10 Best Used Work Trucks for Reliability and Performance
10 Best Used Work Trucks for Reliability and Performance
Posted on August 13, 2024
Are you in the market for the best used work trucks? Whether you’re a contractor, landscaper, or simply in need of a robust vehicle for heavy-duty tasks, it's well worth looking into top models known for their durability, performance, and exceptional value.
From rugged off-road capabilities to impressive towing capacities, work trucks are built to withstand the demands of your workday—blending power and affordability. Whether you're reading this guide online or talking to one of our expert sales advisors, you're well on your way to getting the most value for your investment in a used pickup truck for work.
Notes for Choosing Between Great Used Trucks for Work
- JD Power usually ranks Ford, GMC, Chevrolet, Ram, Honda, Toyota, and Hyundai in the top trucks each year, giving you an idea of outstanding makes for a work truck.
- The Ford F-150 is a top choice for those who need a durable and powerful truck, with a towing capacity of up to 14,000 pounds.
- With a 6.7L HO turbodiesel engine, Ford F-350 Super Duty trucks can tow up to an incredible 27,400 lb in certain configurations
- The Chevrolet Silverado 1500 offers a blend of safety, power, and comfort, making it a reliable used work truck option with a 13,300-pound towing capacity.
- The Toyota Tacoma offers significantly less towing capacity but the 4WD model with a 2.3L I4 engine has a combined fuel economy of approximately 11.8 L/100 km.
- Regular maintenance, such as routine servicing and ensuring parts availability, is essential for keeping a used work truck in optimal condition for a longer useful life.
- Financing a used work truck can be an affordable way to access the best used trucks in our inventory.
Ford F-150: Our Pick for The Best Work Truck
Our sales team can tell you that one of your best options for a work truck is the Ford F-150. It stands the test of time and provides a great return on the investment you need in a pickup truck. From towing capacity to comfort features, it's got everything your company needs for successful work.
The Ford F-150 is a legend in the world of both new and used pickup trucks, and for good reason. It's known for its:
- high-strength, military-grade aluminum alloy body
- durability to withstand the toughest jobs and harshest conditions
- range of powerful engine options, including the turbocharged EcoBoost V6
A used F-150 is built to last and offers both power and improved fuel economy. It distinguishes itself with its impressive towing capacity—highly useful at towing up to 14,000 pounds. This truck is more than capable of handling heavy trailers and large loads for your worksite.
Ram 1500: Power and Comfort Combined
The Ram 1500 blends power and comfort. This full-sized pickup truck offers a range of engine options, including the 3.6LV6, the 3.0-liter EcoDiesel V6, and the powerful 5.7-liter Hemi V8. These engines provide enough power to handle a variety of heavy-duty tasks, making the Ram 1500 a versatile choice for work.
The Ram 1500 provides not only power but also ensures comfort. The interior on a used truck might come outfitted with premium leather upholstery, heated and ventilated seats, and state-of-the-art infotainment systems. This combination of comfort features and robust performance capabilities makes the Ram 1500 a standout option for those seeking a used pickup truck that doesn’t compromise on luxury or utility.
Chevrolet Silverado 1500: A Reliable Performer
Our sales team can show you around our well-stocked Silverado 1500 inventory, which they routinely sell as work trucks to our valued customers. This truck can haul heavy, within comparable ranges of Ford trucks' towing capacities.
The Chevrolet Silverado 1500 stands out as a reliable performer in pickup trucks used for work. This full-sized pickup truck is packed with standard safety features, including forward-collision warning, automated emergency braking, and lane-keeping assist, ensuring that you stay safe on the job.
Additionally, a used Silverado 1500 offers a variety of powertrain options, from a turbo four-cylinder to a robust 6.2-liter V-8 engine that produces 420 horsepower and 460 pound-feet of torque.
The Silverado 1500 excels in the towing department. With a used model's towing capacity of up to 13,300 lb (in certain 6.2L V8 or Turbo-Diesel 3.0L I6 configurations), it’s well-suited for heavy-duty tasks. Inside, the truck features a large touchscreen infotainment system compatible with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, providing both utility and comfort for long days on the road.
Toyota Tundra: Rugged and Reliable
The Toyota Tundra is the epitome of rugged reliability. This full-sized pickup truck has earned its reputation through a combination of durable construction and dependable performance.
The Tundra offers V8 engine options, including a 4.7-liter V-8 and a 5.7-liter V-8, providing robust power for a variety of tasks. These engines are paired with either five- or six-speed automatic transmissions, ensuring smooth and reliable shifts.
In terms of towing, the Tundra competes strongly with its rivals. Depending on the configuration, it can tow between 8,300 and 12,000 lb, making it an excellent choice for heavy-duty tasks. With its full-size body and impressive capabilities, the Toyota Tundra is a go-to option for those needing a rugged and reliable work truck.
Nissan Frontier: Compact Yet Capable
Our sales team stands at the ready to help you find your next truck. One option we'd love to get in stock from our valued trade-in customers is the Nissan Frontier. This truck is great for smaller jobs with low payload or towing capacity requirements.
For those who need a truck that’s compact yet capable, the Nissan Frontier is an excellent choice among compact trucks. Its smaller size makes it easier to maneuver in tight spaces, a significant advantage over full-sized pickup trucks. Despite its compact nature, the Frontier doesn’t skimp on power, offering engine options like the 2.5L 4-cylinder and the more powerful 4.0L V6.
We don't always have a Frontier model among our used Nissans, but it's always worth keeping an eye out for them.
Equipped with the 4.0-liter V-6 engine, the Frontier offers a towing capacity of up to 6,500 lb, thereby accommodating various work-related tasks. Its durability and usability make it a reliable choice for those looking for a truck that can handle both work and daily driving needs.
GMC Sierra 1500: Premium Features for Work
The GMC Sierra 1500 brings a touch of luxury to the work truck segment. This full-sized pickup truck offers a range of premium features designed to enhance both performance and comfort. The Sierra 1500 is available with powerful engine options, including the TurboMax engine that delivers 310 horsepower and 430 lb.-ft. of torque.
For those seeking even more power, the Denali trim offers a 6.2L V8 engine paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission. Trucks like these also offer a maximum towing capacity of up to 9,500 lbs, handling heavy loads with ease.
Beyond its considerable performance capabilities, a used Sierra 1500 features advanced technology such as Super Cruise™ hands-free driver assistance and up to 14 available camera views, facilitating navigation and trailer management.
Ford Super Duty: Heavy-Duty Excellence
Ford Super Duty series used trucks stand at the ready for you. Check out our lineup from the F-250 to the mighty F-350 Super Duty series for the highest tow capacities available!
When it comes to heavy-duty excellence, the Ford Super Duty lineup is hard to beat. Equipped with the 6.7L High Output Power Stroke Turbo Diesel engine, these trucks deliver an astounding average of 500 horsepower, making them one of the most powerful options available. This series' diesel engine also provides best-in-class max horsepower and torque, ensuring exceptional performance for the toughest jobs.
A key feature of the Ford Super Duty is its exceptional towing capacity. With the 6.7L HO diesel engine, these trucks can tow up to an incredible 27,400 lbs in certain configurations, making them ideal for heavy towing and hauling tasks.
Whether you’re transporting heavy equipment or towing a large trailer, the Ford Super Duty offers the power and reliability needed to get the job done. The F-250 through F-600 make up our Super Duty lineup but it's worth checking out our used Ford F-350 inventory to get an idea of where to start!
Chevrolet Colorado: Versatile Midsize Option
The Chevrolet Colorado is a versatile midsize option that offers a range of configurations, including various crew cab layouts, to suit different needs. Available in regular cab, extended cab, and crew cab models, the Colorado provides flexibility for both work and personal use after work—for yourself or your employees.
Performance-wise, the Colorado presents multiple powertrain options encompassing efficient inline-four and potent V6 engines. The Chevy Colorado remains an excellent choice for those seeking a midsize truck that can handle a variety of tasks with ease.
Ram 2500/3500: Heavy-Duty Reliability
Contact our sales team for help narrowing down your used truck options to our selection of Ram 1500 or 2500HD models. We can get you up to speed on specific models by year if you're leaning towards this make.
For those requiring heavy-duty reliability, the Ram 2500 and 3500 are excellent choices. These trucks are powered by robust Cummins engine options, including the 5.9-liter and 6.7-liter Turbo Diesel engines. The 6.7L engine, in particular, produces up to 400 horsepower and 1,000 pound-feet of torque, providing exceptional performance for demanding tasks.
The Ram 3500, best equipped with the AISIN AS69RC six-speed automatic transmission, can tow over 31,000 pounds, making it suitable for the heaviest of loads. Known for their long-lasting nature, these trucks often see six-figure mileage on the odometer, proving their durability and reliability.
Whether you need a truck for heavy towing or hauling, the Ram 2500 and 3500 deliver great heavy-duty performance similar to the best heavy-duty trucks. While we don't always have stock in a Ram 2500 or 3500, you can always ask one of our sales advisors which of our Ford Super Duty series or used Chevy Silverado 3500HD models can do comparable work!
Toyota Tacoma: Dependable and Durable
The Toyota Tacoma is synonymous with dependability and durability. Consistently receiving high marks for reliability, the Tacoma is one of the most trusted names in the used truck market, making it one of the top reliable trucks. Its serious off-road capabilities, especially in trims like the TRD Off-Road and TRD Pro, make it a favorite among those who need a truck that can handle rough terrains.
Beyond its off-road prowess, the Tacoma is also known for its strong towing capacity, which can reach up to 6,404 lb depending on the configuration. Due to its high resale value and a wealth of standard features, the Tacoma is a popular pick for those in search of a reliable and durable used work truck.
Key Features to Look for in a Used Work Truck
Price might be something to look at too, however, as more and more are recognizing the value of used trucks, their price goes up. But used truck financing can help out there. In selecting a used work truck, you should evaluate several key features to obtain the most suitable vehicle for your needs. Factors like engine performance, towing capacity, and interior comfort are all-important in determining the truck’s suitability for your work-related tasks.
JD Power ranks multiple years and models from Ford, GMC, Chevrolet, Ram, Honda, Toyota, and Hyundai as their top truck make picks—giving you an idea of where to start looking for a work truck. Our sales experts can help you narrow down your choices from there, based on our inventory. Just as they'll tell you, you should also gauge engine performance, fuel economy, interior comfort, and towing capacity.
Engine Performance
Our used truck inventory is ready for anything, but you may want to choose your next work truck based on engine design and choices. Ford trucks may come with PowerBoost, and other makes might have similar upgrades or engine options you'd need in your daily work. It's best to describe what you're looking for to one of our sales advisors!
The engine performance plays a critical role in determining the functionality of a used work truck. A reliable engine ensures that the truck can handle the demands of your job, whether that involves heavy towing or long-distance driving.
V8 engines are generally more reliable for heavy-duty tasks due to their robust power and durability. Turbodiesel engines, in particular, offer higher low-end torque compared to gasoline engines, making them ideal for towing heavy trailers.
Torque, measured in pound-feet, is crucial for moving weight, while horsepower is essential for maintaining speed under load, especially on highways. By focusing on these factors, you can select a truck with an engine that meets your specific work requirements.
Fuel Economy
When evaluating engine performance, it’s also important to consider fuel economy. EcoBoost engines, for example, provide a balance of power and fuel efficiency, making them a popular choice for those who need both performance and improved fuel economy. Let's look at newer used pickup trucks from 2022 to compare apples to apples!
- 2022 Toyota Tacoma: The combined fuel economy for the Tacoma varies slightly based on the configuration. The 4WD model with a 2.4 L I4 engine has a combined fuel economy of approximately 11.8 L/100 km.
- 2022 Ford F-150: The F-150 also has multiple configurations. A popular choice, the 2WD model with a 2.7L V6 turbo engine, has a combined fuel economy of approximately 11.8 L/100 km.
- 2022 GMC Sierra: The Sierra offers different engine options, but a common configuration with a 5.3L V8 engine has a combined fuel economy of approximately 14.7 L/100 km.
As you can see, the Toyota Tacoma is hard to beat in terms of fuel economy (except when it's up against the Ford F-150 Turbo), but it's worth weighing towing capacity against straight fuel economy; using trucks for work often demands heavy towing, and Ford or GM vehicles often do that part best!
Towing Capacity
Another key feature to take into account when picking a used work truck is the towing capacity. It indicates how much weight the vehicle can safely tow without compromising performance or safety. Knowing your towing needs will help you choose the right truck for the job. For instance, models like the Ford F-150 can tow up to 14,000 pounds, making them suitable for various heavy-duty tasks.
Trucks with higher-rated towing capacities, such as heavy-duty trucks, often come with reinforced frames and advanced towing packages, ensuring they can handle the demands of heavy towing.
Interior Comfort
For those who spend extensive hours driving, interior comfort is not merely a luxury but a necessity. Modern used trucks often feature advanced infotainment systems and plush seating to enhance comfort during long drives. For instance, the Toyota Tundra offers higher trim levels with leather upholstery and walnut wood trim, providing a more comfortable and luxurious driving experience.
Space and ergonomics are also significant factors. Trucks like the Nissan Frontier come with Zero Gravity seats designed to reduce driver fatigue, making them ideal for long hauls. Features like adaptive cruise control and coil-spring rear suspension, as seen in the 2024 Tundra, can also provide a smoother and more comfortable ride, making these trucks not just practical but also enjoyable to drive on a workday.
Maintenance Tips for Used Work Trucks
Our maintenance service team is always ready to help with all your work truck's needs from routine service to scheduled parts replacements. Ask us for help keeping your used pickup truck ready for professional use.
Regular maintenance is fundamental to maintain the reliability and optimal performance of your used work truck. This includes routine servicing, checking fluid levels, and ensuring tire maintenance. Proper maintenance can extend the life of your truck and prevent costly repairs down the line.
Regular Servicing
Consistent servicing forms the basis of maintaining a used work truck. This involves routine tasks like oil changes, brake checks, and cleaning various components to prevent buildup and wear. Ensuring that all fluid levels—such as engine oil, coolant, and transmission fluid—are appropriate is essential to avoid major problems and keep the truck running smoothly.
Frequent brake checks are particularly important, especially when your truck is often loaded to its maximum capacity. This ensures balanced braking performance and safety. Regular servicing not only helps in maintaining the truck’s performance but also extends its lifespan, making it a crucial part of owning a used work truck. Schedule your next work truck's vehicle maintenance ahead of time each year for best results.
High Mileage Considerations
High mileage used trucks are something to consider, not something to write off completely. The average distance travelled each year is 16,000-32,000 km per year. But there's also the question of whether that mileage was mostly highway driving; predominantly highway driven high mileage vehicles lack problems like curb rash, dents, and scrapes. Ask our sales advisors how it got its miles!
Parts Availability
Easy access to replacement parts is crucial in minimizing downtime and ensuring your truck remains operational. Ensuring that parts for your specific truck model are readily available can significantly cut down on repair times and costs. For example, replacement parts for used Ford F-150 models are guaranteed by our OEM and affordable too, making this model a practical choice for long-term use.
When choosing a used work truck from the used market, consider the availability of parts for older models within the automaker’s lineup. This can make a significant difference in the ease and cost of maintenance over the truck’s lifespan. Opting for models with readily available parts ensures that your truck remains functional and reliable, even as it ages.
Visit Strathmore Ford and Choose from Our Used Truck Inventory
Our sales team can advise you on all available makes and models from the Ford F-150 to the Ram 1500 in our used truck inventory. Your next work truck is a click or call away!
Choosing the right used work truck can make all the difference in your daily operations. From the rugged Ford F-150 to the luxurious GMC Sierra 1500, each truck on this list offers unique strengths in terms of reliability, performance, and comfort. Key features like engine performance, towing capacity, and interior comfort make all the difference in determining the best truck for your needs.
Remember, proper maintenance is key to ensuring your used work truck remains reliable and performs optimally. Regular servicing and ensuring parts availability can extend the life of your truck and prevent costly repairs for your business, and you'll be able to get a good price when you trade your used work truck in for an upgrade down the line.
Although used trucks are often cheaper than new ones, financing is still available and advisable when you're using a truck for work! Get pre-qualified for used truck financing and set your budget for a used pickup truck that will serve your needs at the jobsite for years to come.
FAQs
What are the key factors to consider when buying a used work truck?
When buying a used work truck, consider engine performance, towing capacity, and interior comfort. Prioritize reliability, affordability, and parts availability to make a well-informed decision.
Your professional work, from hauling landscaping equipment trailers to moving payloads could impact your decision-making process a lot! You should also look for the most recurring makes on best truck roundups like Ford, GMC, Chevrolet, Ram, and Toyota.
How important is towing capacity in a used work truck?
Towing capacity determines the safe weight limit for towing. Exceeding this limit can lead to unsafe conditions and potential vehicle damage. One of the best-in-class towing capabilities goes to the Ford F-150, but other makes are not far behind. Check the towing capacity ratings, which include the total weight a truck can pull, tongue capacity for the trailer’s hitch weight, and third-wheel capacity for hitches mounted inside the truck’s bed.
Our service experts are in touch with our sales advisors, so you'll always have an opportunity to learn its limits before you drive it off the lot. Just ask us!
Why is regular servicing important for used work trucks?
Regular servicing maintains performance, prevents serious issues, and extends the vehicle's lifespan. Keeping your truck in shape preserves safety and long-lasting reliability, ensuring the truck remains in good condition despite multiple owners and professional and potentially intensive usage.
What makes the Ford F-150 a top choice for a used work truck?
The Ford F-150 is a top choice due to its high-strength aluminum alloy body, powerful engine options, and towing capacity of up to 14,000 lb. These features make it a durable and reliable work truck balancing a great many criteria.
How does parts availability affect the maintenance of a used work truck?
Easy access to replacement parts reduces downtime and repair costs, ensuring the truck remains operational. Models like the Ford F-150 benefit from our easily accessed and affordable parts department. Schedule way ahead and build a history with our parts and service departments to reduce this lead time!