Here Are the Longest-Lasting Trucks You Can Buy
What if your next car could last over 400,000 miles? Used pickups are capable, reliable, and fun to drive. Check out which trucks can still kick it after 20 years.
GMC Sierra 1500s, Ram 1500s, Toyota Tacomas, and Chevrolet Silverados are some of the longest-lasting trucks on the market.
- If you want a truck that can go the extra mile, prioritize models with low maintenance requirements and high reliability ratings.
- Ram 1500s, Chevy Silverados, and Toyota Tacomas are among some of the longest-lasting trucks—but some model years are better than others.
- On any vehicle you own, your quality of care and maintenance will have a major impact on how long your ride actually lasts.
- If you want a truck that can go the extra mile, prioritize models with low maintenance requirements and high reliability ratings.
- Ram 1500s, Chevy Silverados, and Toyota Tacomas are among some of the longest-lasting trucks—but some model years are better than others.
- On any vehicle you own, your quality of care and maintenance will have a major impact on how long your ride actually lasts.
1500 models go the extra mile
If your goal is to snag a truck that will last you well over 200,000 miles, low maintenance requirements and reliability are key.
A popular choice is the Ram 1500, specifically the 2015, 2017, and 2020 models. When properly maintained and treated with care, Ram 1500s are known to last up to 300,000 miles before engine repair is needed or the transmission needs to be replaced.
MotorBiscuit estimates, “If you drive an average of 15,000 miles per year, it should last about 17 years on the road. Some owners have reached 300,000 miles with 20 years on the road.”
Yearly maintenance isn’t too much of a strain, coming in at $670 on average.
Before purchasing, it's important to inspect the undercarriage, as the vehicle is easily susceptible to
rust
. The best years for a used GMC Sierra 1500 are 2012, 2014, and 2018. Though Consumer Reports rated the 2021 model a one out of five in the reliability department, owners claim their trucks have lasted well beyond 250,000 miles before major fixes.
“If you use this truck as a work truck and average 20,000 miles per year, it may last on the road for about 12.5 years. Driving it for only 15,000 miles per year could stretch its life span to about 15 to 20 years on the road,” MotorBiscuit tells us.
Per year, you’re looking at about $744 in maintenance costs which is a bit above average. The GMC Sierra 1500 is also prone to rust, so make sure to protect the metal frame by keeping the vehicle clean.
The Chevy Silverado 1500 is a reliable truck in the 2012, 2015, and 2018 model years. When handled with care, the Silverado can last 300,000 miles and beyond. Some owners use their trucks for up to 20 years. Regular maintenance is key, or your Silverado may not make it past 150,000 miles.
Expect to spend a little under $700 to maintain the Chevy Silverado each year. Not bad for a full-size truck.
According to MotorBiscuit, “Regular maintenance includes changing the oil and filter, lubricating the steering and suspension, rotating the tires, and regularly changing the belts.” Rust can start to develop after three years, so keep a watchful eye.
Japanese trucks built to last
The 2017 Toyota Tundra has an impressive foundation and is one of the top Light Duty Light pickups in its class. Tundra models from 2013, 2015, and 2018 are also worth noting.
The 2021 model has a four out of five reliability rating from Consumer Reports. 300,000 miles should be no problem for the Tundra if well maintained, assuming owners are driving their work truck about 20,000 miles a year. Utilize anti-rust solutions and regular washes to prevent erosion.
Each year, the full-size truck gets various updates from design to performance. While new versions may have an awesome infotainment system and daytime running lights, some models have stiffer seats than others. Like with any used car, it's always best to test drive the vehicle before making a commitment.
The best-selling shines in its 2015, 2018, and 2019 model years. The midsize truck has a better than average percentile of trucks reaching 200,000 miles. In fact, some Tacomas are known to last over 400,000 miles.
Drivers only spend an average of $478 a year to maintain their trucks. Maintenance can include replacing belts, brakes and changing the oil filter. You may want to avoid the 2005-2010 models, as they’re more likely to rust.
And if only driven between 15,000 and 20,000 miles per year, the Toyota Tacoma can last up to two decades.
The Honda Ridgeline had great model years in 2014, 2017, and 2018. Owners can feel confident about the Ridgeline surpassing 200,000 miles. According to MotorBiscuit, “With minimal repairs, they can stay on the road for about 20 years. This is if your truck is driven 20,000 miles or more per year.”
The basic yearly upkeep isn’t too bad, coming in at around $500. Drivers don’t need to worry about possible rust issues until after they hit the 100,000-mile mark.
MORE:
More American trucks built to last
We all know the hefty Ford F-150 pickup truck. Made from military-grade aluminum, this rugged vehicle is one of the country's best full-size pickup trucks.
“The newer vans have triple the amount of high-strength steel which more than likely increases the van’s safety as well as its longevity,”
HotCars
notes.The Chevrolet Colorado is a massive truck with powerful performance and great safety ratings. Smaller than the Silverado, it's still a rugged beast. Colorado models come with an eight-speed automatic V6 engine with 181-308 hp.
According to HotCars, “It is outfitted with Duralife brake rotors that last double the time of normal rotors.”
If you have a young driver in the family, look for models with the Teen Driver feature to help keep them safe and focused on the road.
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Is it bad to buy a Chevy truck with 200k miles?
Used cars can be smart purchases, but we’d generally advise against buying a Chevy truck with 200k miles. That’s a lot of mileage and wear and tear, and the truck might not be worth what you will have to pay in maintenance and upkeep.
Before buying a used truck or car, be sure to:
- Research what the car is worth
- Take a road test
- Take it to a mechanic for an inspection
- Check the VIN to find specific info about the truck
- Use CARFAX to get a history of the truck
- Ask the right questions
- Don’t be scared to negotiate
