Last updated: 2026-04-20
Most Reliable Used Trucks — Ranked by Data
Trucks live harder lives than most vehicles, so the ones that last earn it. Trucks are ranked across complaint severity, repair costs, recall impact, and issue diversity — normalized by sales volume. The ones at the top have the lowest rate of owner-reported trouble. The 2021 Nissan Frontier leads the rankings with a score of 84/100.
Top 10 Most Reliable Trucks
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Truck Reliability Rankings
| # | Vehicle | Best Year | Score | Rating | Recalls | Complaints / 10k | Maint. Rating | Est. Repair Cost |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Nissan Frontier | 2021 | 84/100 | Excellent | 0 | 0.0 | 4 | |
| 2 | Chevrolet Colorado | 2020 | 81/100 | Excellent | 0 | 7.4 | 4 | |
| 3 | Honda Ridgeline | 2022 | 78/100 | Good | 2 | 24.8 | 5 | |
| 4 | GMC Canyon | 2020 | 76/100 | Good | 0 | — | 3 | |
| 5 | Toyota Tundra | 2021 | 75/100 | Good | 3 | 2.8 | 3.5 | |
| 6 | Chevrolet Silverado | 2023 | 75/100 | Good | 4 | 5.4 | 4 | |
| 7 | Ford Ranger | 2022 | 75/100 | Good | 5 | 6.0 | 4 | |
| 8 | Ram 1500 | 2023 | 72/100 | Good | 10 | 3.6 | 3.5 | |
| 9 | Toyota Tacoma | 2021 | 70/100 | Good | 0 | 36.6 | 3.5 | |
| 10 | GMC Sierra 1500 | 2023 | 69/100 | Good | 3 | 13.4 | 3.5 |
Truck Reliability Score Comparison
Visual comparison of reliability scores across all trucks in our database. Longer bars indicate higher reliability.
Trucks by Category
Most Reliable Used Midsize Trucks
See all 8→Most Reliable Used Full-Size Trucks
See all 8→Browse Truck Rankings by Type
Best Budget Trucks by Price
Used trucks hold their value well, but deals exist for buyers who know where to look. Prices are based on current dealer listings.
Best Budget Trucks Under $30,000
| # | Vehicle | Best Year | Score | Rating | Recalls | Complaints / 10k | Maint. Rating | Est. Repair Cost |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Chevrolet Colorado | 2022 | 81/100 | Excellent | 1 | 4.4 | 4 | |
| 2 | Honda Ridgeline | 2022 | 78/100 | Good | 2 | 24.8 | 5 | |
| 3 | Ford Ranger | 2022 | 75/100 | Good | 5 | 6.0 | 4 | |
| 4 | GMC Sierra 1500 | 2018 | 66/100 | Good | 5 | 16.0 | 3.5 | |
| 5 | Ford Maverick | 2023 | 60/100 | Good | 20 | 32.7 | 4 | |
| 6 | Toyota Tacoma | 2019 | 55/100 | Mixed | 4 | 120.5 | 3.5 |
2022 Chevrolet Colorado (estimated ~$26,242) — scored 81/100 (Excellent) in our reliability analysis. Average score across all years: 78/100. View years to avoid →
2022 Honda Ridgeline (estimated ~$29,316) — scored 78/100 (Good) in our reliability analysis. Average score across all years: 73/100. View years to avoid →
2022 Ford Ranger (estimated ~$24,995) — scored 75/100 (Good) in our reliability analysis. Average score across all years: 71/100. View years to avoid →
2018 GMC Sierra 1500 (estimated ~$26,900) — scored 66/100 (Good) in our reliability analysis. Average score across all years: 64/100. View years to avoid →
2023 Ford Maverick (estimated ~$24,499) — scored 60/100 (Good) in our reliability analysis. Average score across all years: 57/100. View years to avoid →
2019 Toyota Tacoma (estimated ~$29,999) — scored 55/100 (Mixed) in our reliability analysis. Average score across all years: 63/100. View years to avoid →
Model Highlights
1. 2021 Nissan Frontier — 84/100
The Nissan Frontier, with an average reliability score of 79/100, demonstrates consistent performance across several model years, with notable improvements in 2021 when it achieved a score of 84/100 and zero complaints per 10,000 sold. Common issues reported by owners include power train concerns, especially in 2019 and 2020, and some electrical system problems, while the estimated annual repair cost of $470 is below the midsize truck average. This vehicle may suit those seeking a midsize truck with generally good reliability and lower-than-average repair costs, although prospective buyers should be aware of recurring power train issues in certain years.
- Best year
- 2021
- Best-year score
- 84/100
- Avg across years
- 80/100
- Recalls / complaints
- 0 / 0
2. 2020 Chevrolet Colorado — 81/100
The Chevrolet Colorado, with an average reliability score of 84/100, demonstrates consistent performance across recent model years, with notable improvements in complaint rates from 2020 to 2025. Common issues reported by owners include power train and electrical system concerns, particularly in earlier models, while the 2023 model experiences elevated complaints regarding the forward collision avoidance system. Repair costs average $599 annually, slightly above the midsize truck category, indicating moderate maintenance expenses.
- Best year
- 2020
- Best-year score
- 81/100
- Avg across years
- 78/100
- Recalls / complaints
- 0 / 71
3. 2022 Honda Ridgeline — 78/100
The Honda Ridgeline, spanning model years 2018 to 2026, shows a varied reliability profile with an average score of 77/100, categorizing it as "Good." Data indicates that earlier models, such as 2018 and 2019, experience higher complaint rates and issues primarily with the electrical and fuel systems, while later years, like 2024 and 2025, demonstrate significant improvements with lower complaint rates and scores reaching up to 99/100. Commonly reported issues include exterior lighting malfunctions, particularly with the automatic high beam system, and electrical system concerns, while safety ratings consistently remain at 5/5 stars across all years.
- Best year
- 2022
- Best-year score
- 78/100
- Avg across years
- 73/100
- Recalls / complaints
- 2 / 106
4. 2020 GMC Canyon — 76/100
The GMC Canyon, spanning model years 2018 to 2026, holds an average reliability score of 83 out of 100, indicating excellent reliability. Common issues reported by owners include powertrain and electrical system problems, particularly in earlier model years like 2018 and 2019, with repair costs averaging $548 annually, aligning with the midsize truck category. The data suggests that while recent models, especially 2026, show improved reliability and fewer complaints, potential buyers should remain aware of historical issues, especially with transmissions and electrical systems, when considering used models.
- Best year
- 2020
- Best-year score
- 76/100
- Avg across years
- 71/100
- Recalls / complaints
- 0 / 13
5. 2021 Toyota Tundra — 75/100
The Toyota Tundra's reliability, based on data from 2018 to 2026, shows a mixed performance with an average reliability score of 59/100. Common issues reported by owners include throttle lag and engine power loss, particularly in models from 2022 to 2024, which also have high complaint rates. Despite these concerns, the Tundra's estimated annual repair cost of $606 is below the full-size truck average, making it a consideration for those prioritizing lower maintenance expenses.
- Best year
- 2021
- Best-year score
- 75/100
- Avg across years
- 67/100
- Recalls / complaints
- 3 / 23
6. 2023 Chevrolet Silverado — 75/100
The Chevrolet Silverado, particularly from model years 2018 to 2025, has an average reliability score of 78/100, indicating a generally good reliability reputation with improvements noted in recent years. Data reveals common issues with power train and electrical systems, especially in earlier models, while recent models such as 2025 show significantly fewer complaints and higher scores. It is well-suited for buyers prioritizing recent model reliability improvements, as evidenced by the 2026 model's perfect score and absence of recalls or complaints.
- Best year
- 2023
- Best-year score
- 75/100
- Avg across years
- 69/100
- Recalls / complaints
- 4 / 299
7. 2022 Ford Ranger — 75/100
The Ford Ranger, spanning model years 2019 to 2026, holds an average reliability score of 78/100, categorized as "Good" by the Auto Reliability Index. Data indicates persistent issues with the power train, particularly the 10R80 transmission, across multiple years, alongside electrical system concerns, with a notable improvement in complaint rates from 28.4 per 10,000 sold in 2019 to 1.6 in 2025. With an estimated annual repair cost of $615, slightly above the midsize truck average, the Ranger is best suited for buyers who prioritize mid-range reliability and are attentive to potential maintenance needs.
- Best year
- 2022
- Best-year score
- 75/100
- Avg across years
- 71/100
- Recalls / complaints
- 5 / 34
8. 2023 Ram 1500 — 72/100
The Ram 1500, with an average reliability score of 66/100, falls within the "Good" category according to Auto Reliability Index data, with notable improvements in recent years. Common issues reported by owners include electrical system malfunctions and power train concerns, particularly in earlier models, while the 2024 and 2025 models show lower complaint rates and fewer recalls. The vehicle's estimated annual repair cost is $691, which is below the full-size truck average, suggesting a moderate maintenance burden for potential buyers.
- Best year
- 2023
- Best-year score
- 72/100
- Avg across years
- 64/100
- Recalls / complaints
- 10 / 145
9. 2021 Toyota Tacoma — 70/100
Data from Auto Reliability Index indicates that the Toyota Tacoma has a mixed reliability reputation, with average scores ranging from 49 to 69 out of 100 over recent years. Commonly reported issues include power train and service brake problems, particularly in model years 2018, 2019, and 2024, while newer models show improvements in complaint rates and repair costs, which are below the midsize truck average at $478 annually. The Tacoma's reliability rating of 3.5 out of 5 suggests it is a moderate choice for those prioritizing lower maintenance expenses, though potential buyers should be aware of specific model year issues.
- Best year
- 2021
- Best-year score
- 70/100
- Avg across years
- 63/100
- Recalls / complaints
- 0 / 69
10. 2023 GMC Sierra 1500 — 69/100
The GMC Sierra 1500, covering model years 2018 through 2026, holds an average reliability score of 83/100, indicating an overall excellent reliability reputation. Data shows that while earlier models like 2019 and 2020 faced issues primarily with engines and power trains, leading to higher complaint rates and recalls, more recent models such as 2025 and 2026 exhibit significant improvements with minimal complaints and no recalls. This vehicle is best suited for buyers prioritizing reliability, particularly those considering newer models, as they demonstrate fewer reported issues and higher satisfaction scores.
- Best year
- 2023
- Best-year score
- 69/100
- Avg across years
- 64/100
- Recalls / complaints
- 3 / 318
11. 2018 Ram Promaster — 68/100
The Ram Promaster, spanning model years 2018 to 2026, holds an average reliability score of 62/100, indicating a generally good reliability rating. Common issues reported by owners include problems with the powertrain, electrical system, and engine cooling, with significant complaint spikes in 2019 and 2021, corresponding to higher recall and complaint rates. Repair costs are rated at 2/5, suggesting moderate expenses for maintenance, making it essential for prospective buyers to consider potential repair needs, particularly in models from earlier years.
- Best year
- 2018
- Best-year score
- 68/100
- Avg across years
- 62/100
- Recalls / complaints
- 0 / 1
12. 2023 Ford F-150 — 68/100
The Ford F-150, covering model years 2018 through 2026, holds an average reliability score of 66 out of 100, categorized as "Good" by the Auto Reliability Index. Common issues reported include power train and engine problems, particularly with the 10-speed transmission and cam phasers, while the 2024 and 2025 models show improvements with lower complaint rates and fewer recalls. With an estimated annual repair cost of $788, below the full-size truck average, the F-150 is suitable for those prioritizing cost-effective maintenance, though potential buyers should be aware of specific model year concerns.
- Best year
- 2023
- Best-year score
- 68/100
- Avg across years
- 63/100
- Recalls / complaints
- 10 / 383
13. 2023 Rivian R1t — 65/100
The Rivian R1T, with an average reliability score of 66/100 from 2023 to 2025, shows mixed reliability, with common issues reported in areas such as the airbag system, electrical components, and steering alignment. Owners frequently report problems like airbag sensor failures, electrical system malfunctions leading to safety concerns, and steering misalignment, particularly in the 2023 and 2025 models. Repair costs are rated at 3 out of 5, indicating moderate expenses for maintenance and repairs.
- Best year
- 2023
- Best-year score
- 65/100
- Avg across years
- 65/100
- Recalls / complaints
- 7 / 35
14. 2023 Hyundai Santa-Cruz — 64/100
The Hyundai Santa-Cruz, covering model years 2022 to 2026, has an average reliability score of 68 out of 100, indicating a generally good reliability reputation. Data shows that earlier models, particularly 2022 and 2023, experience frequent powertrain and electrical system issues, while later models demonstrate improvements, with the 2026 model reporting no complaints. Repair costs are moderate, and the vehicle is best suited for those who prioritize recent models with fewer reported issues and higher reliability scores.
- Best year
- 2023
- Best-year score
- 64/100
- Avg across years
- 61/100
- Recalls / complaints
- 2 / 73
15. 2023 Ford Maverick — 60/100
Covering model years 2022 to 2026, the Ford Maverick shows a mixed reliability record with an average score of 63/100. Data indicates significant improvement over time, with initial years marked by frequent issues in power train and electrical systems, particularly in 2022 and 2023, which had scores of 20/100 and 50/100 respectively. By 2026, the model achieves a score of 98/100 with zero complaints, suggesting substantial enhancements in reliability, potentially making it more suitable for buyers prioritizing long-term dependability.
- Best year
- 2023
- Best-year score
- 60/100
- Avg across years
- 57/100
- Recalls / complaints
- 20 / 308
16. 2023 Jeep Gladiator — 51/100
The Jeep Gladiator, from 2020 to 2026, shows a mixed reliability score averaging 55/100, with notable fluctuations across model years. Common issues reported by owners include persistent steering problems, particularly the "death wobble," electrical system failures, and power train concerns, with repair costs rated low at 2/5. While the 2025 and 2026 models show improved reliability with scores of 64/100 and no recalls, prospective buyers should consider the historical data of recalls and complaints, especially in earlier models.
- Best year
- 2023
- Best-year score
- 51/100
- Avg across years
- 50/100
- Recalls / complaints
- 5 / 46
17. 2023 Ford F-150 Lightning — 45/100
Data indicates that the Ford F-150 Lightning, covering model years 2022 through 2026, has an average reliability score of 61 out of 100, classified as "Good" on the Auto Reliability Index. Initial years, particularly 2022 and 2023, show significant issues with the power train and electrical systems, leading to high complaint rates and recalls, while later years, especially 2025 and 2026, demonstrate improved reliability with fewer complaints and recalls. The vehicle suits those prioritizing newer models, as improvements in later years reduce the likelihood of encountering early issues such as unintended acceleration and electrical malfunctions.
- Best year
- 2023
- Best-year score
- 45/100
- Avg across years
- 42/100
- Recalls / complaints
- 11 / 175
Also Compare
Frequently Asked Questions
- What is the most reliable used truck?
- Based on our data, the 2021 Nissan Frontier is the most reliable used truck with a score of 84/100 ("Excellent"). It has 0 recalls and 0 owner complaints.
- Are used trucks reliable?
- Reliability varies by make, model, and year. Full-size trucks are complex vehicles with powerful engines and heavy-duty components, which means more potential failure points. However, well-maintained trucks from reliable manufacturers can last well over 200,000 miles.
- What truck engine is the most reliable?
- Naturally aspirated V8 engines generally have fewer issues than turbocharged options, though modern turbo engines have improved significantly. Check our model-year reports for engine-specific reliability data.
- Should I buy a first-year redesign truck?
- First-year redesigns typically have more issues as manufacturers work out production kinks. Our data shows that the final year of a generation often scores higher than the first year of a new generation. When possible, consider a model year that has had time for refinement.
- What is the most reliable used truck on a budget?
- For budget buyers, the 2019 Ford F-150 offers the best reliability in the under-$20,000 price range, scoring 65/100.
How We Calculate Reliability Scores
Auto Reliability Index scores are calculated on a 0–100 scale using a weighted formula that combines multiple public data sources. Each factor is weighted based on its predictive value for real-world ownership experience.
Key Ranking Factors
Complaint Severity
NHTSA owner complaints weighted by component category (e.g., powertrain, safety systems, electronics, cosmetic) — safety-critical issues carry more weight than cosmetic ones. Adjusted for sales volume so high-volume models aren't unfairly penalized.
Repair Costs
Independent reliability ratings based on repair frequency, average repair costs, and severity of typical repairs for each model.
Recall Impact
Number of NHTSA recalls weighted by severity. “Stop driving” and fire-risk recalls are penalized more heavily than minor software or labeling recalls.
Issue Diversity
Measures how many major vehicle systems (engine, transmission, electrical, braking, etc.) have recorded complaints. A vehicle with issues spread across many systems may indicate systemic quality issues.
Scores are grouped into four tiers:
- 80–100: Excellent— Top-tier reliability, minimal issues
- 60–79: Good— Reliable with some minor concerns
- 40–59: Mixed— Notable issues, research before buying
- 0–39: Risky— Significant problems, proceed with caution
Data is sourced from NHTSA recall records, owner complaint filings, and independent repair databases. Scores are recalculated as new data becomes available. While the weighting model is proprietary, all underlying data sources are public and traceable.
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