23 Most Reliable Pickup Trucks to Buy, Rated by Mechanics

Everyone looking to buy a pickup truck has one thing on their checklist – they want a reliable car. Sorry to break the party this early, but there’s no such thing as a reliable pickup truck without a responsible owner.

Still, there are pickup truck models that have earned a reputation for taking a beating even with the most ignorant owner. They are known for their robust build, reliability, easy repair, and good resale value.

Now, who wouldn’t want a truck like that? Well, we compiled a list of 23 of the most reliable pickup trucks – rated by mechanics. We also included data from repair shops, parts dealers, dealerships, car forums, and previous owners.

Toyota Tundra

It’s not surprising that a Toyota is at the top of this list. Spoiler alert: More models from the Japanese auto manufacturer will be on this list.

The Toyota Tundra has won the hearts of American pickup truck lovers for three reasons: It’ll last a lifetime, has a bulletproof powertrain, and is easy to repair.

Join any Toyota Tundra forum, and you’ll quickly learn that getting to 200,000 miles is a benchmark. Its 5.7-liter V8 engine has earned a reputation among owners for having minimal breakdowns. Previous owners on a popular Tundra forum have nothing to say but praise for its unmatchable reliability. Unlike its competition, the Tundra has a very low recall rate.

Ford F-150

There’s a reason the Ford F-150 has consistently ranked as the best-selling truck in the United States for more than 40 years. It offers a combination of power, durability, and versatility.

Here’s the thing, ladies and gentlemen: If you are serious about buying a truck, those are the three main qualities you should look out for. Mechanics praise the Ford F-150 for its resilient frame and suspension. Its aluminum body build helps reduce rust, making it a truck for all seasons.

Potential buyers can choose from several engine options, from the powerful 5-liter V8 to the EcoBoost line of engines, which is perfect for balancing power and efficiency.

Ram 1500

If you are looking for a truck that’ll serve as a workhorse and commuter, the Ram 1500 is your perfect choice. It’s an equal parts plaything and workhorse.

The Ram 1500 is also one of the most comfortable pickup trucks, offering superior ride quality and luxury-car cabins (for the upper trims).

Under the hood, it packs a 3.6-liter V6 that, according to mechanics and repair shops, is reliable and requires few major repairs. Compared to competitors in its class, the Ram 1500 has fewer recalls. The latest recall over an ABS issue was a software fix.

Chevrolet Silverado 1500

There are a ton of perks for pickup truck lovers who buy the Chevrolet Silverado 1500—you get a wide selection of powertrains to choose from, it drives much smaller than it looks, and it has higher towing capability (than the Ram 1500).

Most mechanics regard the Chevrolet Silverado 1500’s 5.3-liter V8 engine as durable. It’ll haul and tow huge loads and take a beating as a workhorse but won’t punish you at the repair shop.

A previous owner in a popular Silverado forum commended the truck for surpassing the 300,000-mile mark without major issues.

Honda Ridgeline

Americans love Honda for two major reasons—it’s reliable and economical. The Japanese automaker passed the Civic’s best attributes onto its pickup truck, the Honda Ridgeline, making it one of the most efficient trucks (we are talking about 21 MPG).

That’s not all. The Honda Ridgeline features an all-wheel-drive system perfect for rugged terrain and smooth ride quality (it is one of the best mid-sized trucks in the U.S.). On the downside, the Ridgeline is more of a car than a truck.

Nissan Frontier

Nissan has earned a bad reputation for its larger vehicles thanks to a bad transmission (CVT issues), but the Nissan Frontier is an outlier (the 2024 model being the best). You’ll love its rugged, good looks, and decent price tag.

With its 310 hp V6 engine, the Nissan Frontier offers more than good looks. It outmatches close competition like the Honda Ridgeline (30 hp more). Potential owners will save more thanks to Nissan Frontier’s low-cost parts and repair.

It also shares some parts carried over from the Rogue, which are available cheaply on platforms like Amazon (aftermarket) or the Facebook market.

GMC Canyon

If you are looking for a truck that’s not a front-liner but still capable and ready to get muddy – you’ve got to check out the GMC Canyon. For starters, it is an easy truck to drive. The 2024 model year features off-road-focused trims powered by a durable V6 engine and an 8-speed automatic transmission.

Mechanics praise the GMC Canyon for its reliable frame, built for longevity. You’ll love its fancy interior and smooth ride quality. The only downfall of the Canyon is its steep pricing.

Nissan Titan

It might shock most people that there’s yet another Nissan on this list, but the Titan has one of the most desirable features in its class. Its powerhouse 400-hp 5.6-liter V8 engine, front-seat comfort, and longevity earn it top marks among truck lovers.

According to mechanics, the Nissan Titan offers one of the best warranties in its class (five years or 100,000 miles). Unfortunately, the Titan lacks a very important department in the pickup trucking world – it can’t tow as much.

Chevrolet Colorado

It’s hard to beat Chevrolet Colorado, especially for mid-sized pickup trucks in America. It features both commuter and off-road rugged charms. Potential owners have a variety of engines to pick from, and the Duramax diesel easily tops as a class favorite thanks to its proven longevity.

Regardless of the engine choices you make, you’ll spend less time at the mechanics and even less money on repair costs. And when it is time to get a newer truck, you’ll be laughing all the way to the bank, thanks to the Chevrolet Colorado’s high resale value.

Ford Ranger

The blue oval has an offering for every pickup truck lover. For those looking for a city-friendly truck that’s maneuverable in urban settings without compromising on workhorse capabilities, the Ford Ranger is a perfect fit.

For starters, it features a decent, long-lasting, and comfortable interior. You’ll love its turbo-four’s perky acceleration and smooth ride experience. The 2024 model year took inspiration from the F-150, adopting a bolder frontal face. Mechanics commend this pickup truck for its low maintenance.

RAM 2500

The best way to describe the Ram 2500 is like a Defensive Back with a friendly personality. You’ll love the quiet cabin and the luxury features on the upper trim models, and better yet, when it’s time to tag and tow, it’ll pull like a semi-truck.

Under the hood, the Ram 2500 features a reliable Cummins diesel engine that’s earned a reputation for extended life. Thanks to its heavy-duty build, you’ll rarely visit your local mechanic because of a breakdown.

Chevrolet Avalanche

The Chevrolet Avalanche was designed for truck lovers looking for a monster pickup with SUV-like characteristics. Previous owners commend it for driving pretty well for its size (based on the Chevy Silverado). It’s built for durability and features several V8 engine choices.

Even though Chevy halted production in 2013, it’s the ultimate truck for overlanding. It features lockable storage compartments with a cargo box for tools and camping gear. You won’t have difficulty disposing of it at the used-car makers—there’ll be more than a handful of takers.

Toyota Hilux

The Toyota Hilux will go into the books of history as one of the greatest trucks ever developed. It was designed for one thing—toughness—and it did more than that, offering some of the best characteristics of a rugged truck still emulated by pickup truck manufacturers worldwide (for over 50 years).

You’ll hardly spot these in repair shops, but you’ll meet them everywhere in the brush – Arabian deserts, torrid wilderness in Africa, the Australian outback, and even the harsh American tundra. The Toyota Hilux is one of the most successful trucks ever built.

GMC Sierra 1500

The GMC Sierra 1500 is one of the best-selling pickup trucks in the U.S. It sells like hotcakes thanks to its configurable ( multiple design options). To be honest, it’s a Silverado with different badging.

Still, owners choose a menu of engine options, including a 5.3-liter V8 and a 6.2-liter V8. The automatic transmission has minimal issues, even though it packs some serious power under the hood. As a bonus, its advanced safety tech helps preserve this rugged beast, reducing wear and tear.

Mazda B-Series

Mazda received much praise for its driver-designed Miata, and most car enthusiasts believe it has no business in the trucking world—wrong! Like the Miata, the B-Series features a simple design, which means fewer breakable things.

While it’s not built to tow like a semi, the Mazda B-Series has consistently scored high in reliability surveys. Those allergic to repairs will love this truck because its simple design means lower repair costs.

Chevrolet Silverado 2500 HD

The Chevrolet Silverado 2500 HD is on the heavy end of the pickup truck market, offering full-on trucking warfare. It’s a heavy-duty Chevy with enough towing grunt to max out at 22,430 pounds.

The diesel engine options last a lifetime, and for that, you’ll always have a mule to pull your airstream every summer vacation. The Chevrolet Silverado 2500 HD also built a solid reputation for reliability thanks to a low recall rate.

GMC Sierra 2500 HD

The GMC Sierra 2500 HD and 3500 HD have been designed for one purpose—towing and hauling stuff regularly. Potential buyers of the 2025 Sierra 2500 HD will enjoy optional trailer-assistance features.

Get the turbo-diesel 6.6-liter V8, and you’ll have unleashed 36,000 pounds of towing capability. The engine lineup for this American truck is built to last and break down less often, thanks to its high-quality components.

Ford Super Duty F-350

The Ford F-Series line of trucks has been likened to the 911 of heavy-duty trucks. And it makes sense. The Ford Super Duty F-350 was engineered to last long and have hulk-like towing and hauling capabilities. Previous owners commented that it topped 300,000 miles without any major repairs.

Its robust transmission was designed to handle heavy loads without giving in. Ford fans will stand by the Super Duty’s durability to the last man—for them, there’s no substitute. It’s a workhorse and daily companion.

Ram 3500

The Ram 3500 separates itself from its competition with the Cummins. This robust diesel-powered powerplant was designed to produce brute energy for everyday heavy-duty use and last a lifetime.

The Ram 3500 also features a solid rear axle that further amplifies its towing capability – and longevity. You’ll have to compensate for maneuverability and parking for muscle, but then again, what’s the point of getting a truck if you can’t enjoy its mule-like capabilities?

Nissan Navara

We must give Nissan its flowers for the new Navara’s stunning styling. Remember to overlook its plasticky interior and focus on its capability and a wider mix of cabs and bed sizes. It’s decently priced, and the latest iterations offer good towing capabilities.

Forget about Nissan’s reputation for producing break-down queens; the Nissan Navara has proven durability. For buyers looking for durability, go for the VG33E engine option. Mechanics recommend using it as a mid-sized pickup truck (go easy on towing).

Lincoln Mark LT (2006 – 2008)

The Lincoln Mark LT will make an awesome pick if you are looking for a reliable and easy-to-maintain classic truck. Here’s the truth: The Mark LT is a luxury version of the Ford F-150, offering the same reliability but with a sprinkle of premium features.

Since it only came in a cab crew configuration, it offers maximum passenger space while enjoying the F-150’s mechanical characteristics. Potential buyers will love its reliability, availability of replacement parts, and longevity.

Jeep Gladiator

Here’s the truth, ladies and gentlemen: Jeep has, over the years, offered a mixed reputation for reliability. However, it gets a spot in this list for its sturdy build design and competitive roading capabilities. Essentially, it’s everything all pickup truck buffs want.

Additionally, Jeep parts are readily available throughout the United States (Amazon, local auto parts stores, and even social media markets). If you were to pick a Gladiator pickup truck over a European competition, the Jeep Gladiator would stand out as a strong favorite.

Dodge Dakota (Pre-2011)

While discontinued, the Dodge Dakota earned the reputation of being the ultimate dad truck. It was a little big truck. In the pickup truck world, it was best described as good—it was neither here nor there, but it performed its tasks well.

The Dodge Dakota was a simple truck, and as we all know, simplicity often means fewer complicated parts and, therefore, lower repair costs. It’s a no-frills truck with a high-reliability rating.