The 9 Most Reliable Trucks of All Time

Kicking off our list is the trusty Nissan Frontier. This second-generation workhorse has been a staple in the mid-size truck market for over 15 years. With its robust V6 engine and five-speed automatic transmission, the Frontier offers a smooth ride and plenty of power for your everyday needs.

If you’re like me, though, you’ll want to hunt one down with the six-speed manual transmission. Paired with the V6 and four-wheel drive, it’s an old-school pickup with modern features.

And here's the kicker – these trucks can last up to a quarter-million miles! That's like driving from New York to Los Angeles 89 times. Of course, to get that kind of mileage, you’ll need to keep up with routine maintenance and repair.

2015-2022 Chevy Colorado (2nd gen)

Next up, we've got the Chevy Colorado. This versatile mid-size pickup offers a range of engine options, from a peppy four-cylinder to a torquey diesel. And with up to 308 horses under the hood, you won't be lacking in power.

Longevity-wise, these Colorados can keep on truckin' for 200,000 to 300,000 miles.

When it comes to value, the Colorado holds its own. Whether you're eyeing a 2015 model or a nearly new 2022, you'll find a wide range of prices to fit your budget. 

I might have some bias when it comes to this mid-size truck. My personal vehicle is a 2015 Colorado with the six-speed manual. 

2014-2018 Chevy Silverado 1500 (3rd gen)

If you need something a bit beefier, the Chevy Silverado 1500 might be right up your alley. With engine options ranging from a capable V6 to a brawny 6.2L V8, this full-size pickup has the muscle to tackle just about any job.

These Silverados are built to last, with many hitting the 250,000-mile mark. Just keep an ear out for any transmission grumbles or electrical gremlins – they're the most common long-term issues.

Value-wise, the Silverado offers a lot of truck for your buck. Whether you're looking at a 2014 or a 2018 model, you'll find a wide range of prices depending on condition and mileage. 

2008-2010 Ford F-250 Super Duty (2nd gen)

For those who need some serious hauling power, the Ford F-250 Super Duty is a force to be reckoned with. Whether you opt for the gas V8 or the Power Stroke Diesel, you're getting a reliable truck that means business.

These Super Duties are known for their longevity, with some owners reporting an incredible 600,000 miles on the odometer! However, keep an eye out for rust and be prepared to tackle some engine issues, particularly with the diesel models.

Despite their age, these F-250s still command respectable prices on the used market. A reflection of what they bring to the table.

2007-2021 Toyota Tundra (2nd gen)

Ah, the Toyota Tundra – a truck that's synonymous with reliability. With its beefy 5.7L V8 engine, this full-size pickup has the power to get the job done while still offering that legendary Toyota dependability.

Speaking of dependability, these Tundras are known to keep on ticking well past the 300,000-mile mark. Just watch out for manifold leaks and keep an eye on your ball joints.

When it comes to value, Tundras tend to hold their worth better than most. Whether you're looking at a 2007 model or a nearly new 2021, you'll find that these trucks come at a variety of price points.

2006-2014 Honda Ridgeline (1st gen)

Now for something a bit different – the Honda Ridgeline. This unique truck offers car-like handling with pickup practicality, thanks to its unibody construction and clever features like the in-bed trunk.

Don't let its unconventional design fool you – these Ridgelines can easily surpass 200,000 miles. Just be aware of potential cylinder issues in the earlier models.

Value-wise, the Ridgeline offers a lot of versatility for your dollar. Whether you're looking at an early model or a later one, you'll find a range of prices to suit different budgets. 

1998-2011 Ford Ranger (3rd gen)

The Ford Ranger is a compact truck that's big on reliability. Whether you choose the fuel-efficient four-cylinder or the more powerful V6, you're getting a truck that's perfect for those who don't need a full-size pickup.

These Rangers are known for their longevity, with many surpassing the 300,000-mile mark. Just keep an ear out for timing chain chatter, and be prepared for some transmission TLC as the miles rack up.

Despite their age, these Rangers still hold their value pretty well. Whether you're looking at a late '90s model or one of the last third-gen trucks from 2011, you'll find a wide range of prices to fit different budgets. 

2007-2013 GMC Sierra 1500 (3rd gen)

The GMC Sierra 1500 is another solid choice in the full-size pickup market. With a range of engine options and configurations, there's a Sierra out there for just about every need.

These trucks are built to last, with many owners reporting 500,000 miles or more on the odometer. Just keep an eye on oil consumption, particularly with the 5.3L V8 engines.

When it comes to value, the Sierra offers a lot of truck for your money. Whether you're looking at an early third-gen model or a later one, you'll find a wide range of prices depending on condition and mileage. 

2009-2018 Ram 1500 (4th gen)

Last but certainly not least, we've got the Ram 1500. This full-size pickup offers a range of powerful engines, including a fuel-efficient EcoDiesel option for those looking to save a few bucks at the pump.

These Rams are built to go the distance, with many hitting the 250,000-mile mark. Just be prepared for some potential electronics and fuel system issues as the miles add up.

Value-wise, the Ram 1500 offers a lot of bang for your buck. And it can be the ideal full-size truck for nearly any need.

Should You Buy a Truck?

Even if you don’t find yourself towing or hauling every weekend, a truck makes for a practical pick. Sure, you might sacrifice things like fuel economy, but there’s something nice about knowing you have a do-anything-go-anywhere vehicle. 

Here at RealTruck, we are passionate about all things trucks. Because of that, if you hunt down one of these pickups, you can count on us to be your accessories and knowledge solution.  And that includes whether you are hunting for the best mid-size truck, or one of the more forgotten pickup trucks on today’s market.