Your Used Truck Buying Guide
There was a time when a truck was used for work, and that was about it. That’s because there were much more comfortable options in SUVs or sedans. Not only that, but the rear seat of a truck left a lot to be desired, so sedans and SUVs had a lot more room. Today’s trucks offer a different story, however. With improvements across the truck industry, you can find comfortable, smooth-riding, and powerful trucks that can tackle both work and play with ease.
At Roanoke Ford, we have a large inventory of used cars for sale, including full-size trucks that can check every wish on your list. We also have a friendly and knowledgeable team to help you narrow down our inventory to find the best match for your needs. If you’re interested in upgrading your current truck to something that can accommodate the whole family or want to add a truck to your personal lineup, check out the tips and options below, then stop by and talk with a member of our team.
used truck Checklist
Buying a used truck can be a great investment, whether you plan on it being your daily driver or only using it on occasion for big projects. That’s because trucks are typically made to last, and they hold their value, which means you’ll get your money’s worth. Still, you want to make sure you’re choosing the one that’s best for your needs. To do that, you need to consider the following factors:
Determine Your Needs: Before shopping, evaluate what you need the truck for. Are you seeking a workhorse to move large loads, or do you want something to go off-roading with your friends? What you’ll use the truck for will determine the type of truck, its size, and the engine power you’ll need.
Determine Your Budget: Create a budget that includes additional expenses like insurance, taxes, and preventive maintenance. Taking care of those maintenance tasks is what will help your new-to-you truck last longer, so you don’t want to ignore them.
Do Your Research: Some truck brands and types are noted for their dependability and toughness. Pay attention to reviews and reliability ratings for the models you’re interested in, as well as what issues certain trucks might have. More on this is provided below.
Bed and Cabin Type: Along with knowing what you’ll use your truck for, you also need to decide who might be riding with you. This knowledge helps you determine the cabin size. Also, bed size is important to consider. If you know what you’ll be hauling, you can not only choose the right bed for those needs, but you can also determine what accessories you might need. For instance, you might find used trucks with a bed cap or bed liner already installed.
Towing and Payload: Finally, you’ll want to understand how much the truck can tow as well as the payload capacity. Remember, payload capacity includes all the weight in the cabin. In other words, if you have a 2,000-pound payload capacity and you’re hauling 1800 pounds of material, you might have a problem if you’re bringing along more than one adult. Our team can explore this with you further to ensure the truck you choose meets your needs.
Now that you know a few things to look for when shopping for a used truck, let’s review a few great pre-owned options to consider.
Used Trucks to Consider
There are a lot of trucks in production today, which can make it challenging to find the right one for you. However, our team is well-versed in the trucks we have in our inventory, both inside and out, so you can trust that we’ll do what we can to minimize the challenges and ensure the shopping process is stress- and hassle-free.
The Impressive Ford F-150
You could say we’re biased, and you might be right, but the fact is that the Ford F-Series has been the best-selling truck for decades—almost five decades, to be exact. Also, the F-Series offers you a choice of regular or heavy duty, depending on your needs, and the choices don’t stop there. You also have a wide range of engine, bed, and cabin options, as well as the option of choosing two-wheel or four-wheel drive. And if off-roading is on your bucket list, the Ford Raptor or Tremor are strong contenders to consider. When traveling with friends or family, you’ll also appreciate the multiple storage solutions found throughout the F-150. In addition, you can find used models with a fold-flat shifter to create a large workspace or simply a flat space to eat your lunch or dinner. Last but not least, if you need electricity on the job site or when hanging out with friends, you can find used options with the optional onboard generator as well, giving you up to 7.2 kW of power.
The Capable Chevrolet Silverado
Whenever truck enthusiasts mention the Ford F-Series, there’s typically someone in the group who brings up the Chevrolet Silverado. That’s because these two trucks have been battling each other for years. Like the F-Series, you can also find regular—the 1500—and heavy-duty options. They’re also considered highly durable, with a long list of driver assist and safety features, responsive handling, and premium performance. The interior of the Silverado is also thoughtfully considered and has an easy-to-use infotainment system that gives you everything you need right at your fingertips. You can also find Super Cruise capability on certain used 2022 models and newer. Plus, Chevrolet is the only truck with hands-free capability even when towing. Last but not least, if you’re in and out of your truck bed frequently, you might want to look for a Silverado equipped with the Multi-Flex Tailgate. This tailgate has six functions to help with loading, unloading, and more.
The Iconic Ram 1500
When it comes to trucks, Ram is singularly focused. Their half-ton HEMI engines can also manage whatever towing tasks you have lined up. But it’s the interior that might surprise you, especially when you find a used, top-tier model. Ram trucks are equipped with a suspension system that makes it seem like you’re gliding down the road, even when that road is made of dirt, which means your ride is smooth from the first mile to the last. The interior of the top-tiered models is also equipped with nods to luxury, like premium cushioned seating, heated and ventilated seats, and even a sunroof, depending on the year and model you choose. You’ll also find that Ram didn’t skimp on the infotainment system either, ensuring you and your passengers stay connected throughout the whole drive.
Find the Right Used Truck for You Today
Each of the trucks listed above has a long list of advantages to consider. Plus, each brand has its own dynamic history in the American automotive industry. This just goes to show their dependability, longevity, and commitment to drivers. The key is finding the one that feels right when you slide into the driver’s seat that also checks the boxes for what you need.
You can search our inventory of used trucks online or stop by and talk with a member of our team. Either way, our team at Roanoke Ford can help you sort through your options and provide you with the details you need to make an informed choice. From there, we can assist you with financing and continue our support after the sale, thanks to your factory-trained technicians who are ready and willing to help you keep your new-to-you truck on the road for years to come.
7 Things to Look For in Your Next Used Truck
When it comes to purchasing a used truck, making an informed decision is crucial to ensure you get the best value for your money. Whether you're a contractor in need of a reliable workhorse, an adventurer seeking a rugged vehicle for offroad escapades, or simply someone looking for a dependable mode of transportation, finding the right used truck can make all the difference. At Overstock Vehicles Tampa, we understand the importance of choosing a high quality used truck, and we're here to guide you through the process.
Our dealership is conveniently located in Tampa, Florida, and we're proud to serve customers from Tampa, Lakeland, St. Petersburg, and the surrounding areas. We invite you to visit us or contact our friendly team to explore our extensive inventory of quality used trucks. Let us help you find the perfect truck that meets your needs and exceeds your expectations.
1. Vehicle History Report
When considering a used truck, one of the first steps you should take is to review the vehicle history report. This report provides invaluable information about the truck's past, helping you make an informed decision.
What is a Vehicle History Report?
A vehicle history report is a comprehensive document that details crucial aspects of a truck's background. It typically includes information such as:
Previous Owners: The number of previous owners and their locations.
Accident History: Records of any accidents the truck has been involved in, along with the extent of the damage.
Title Status: Information on whether the truck has a clean title or has been salvaged, rebuilt, or branded in any way.
Service Records: Maintenance and repair history, including oil changes, tire rotations, and other routine services.
Mileage Records: Verified odometer readings to ensure there are no discrepancies.
Why is a Vehicle History Report Important?
Knowing the history of a used truck is essential for several reasons:
Safety: Identifying any past accidents can help you understand potential safety issues or structural damage.
Reliability: Understanding the maintenance history gives you insight into how well the truck has been cared for, which can impact its future performance.
Value: A truck with a clean history is generally worth more and can be a better long term investment.
Peace of Mind: Having a complete history report can provide confidence that you are making a wise purchase.
Overstock Vehicles Tampa: Transparency and Trust
At Overstock Vehicles Tampa, we prioritize transparency and customer satisfaction. That's why we provide detailed vehicle history reports for all our used trucks. Our commitment to honesty ensures that you have all the information you need to make an informed decision.
Whether you're shopping in Tampa, Lakeland, or St. Petersburg, our team at Overstock Vehicles Tampa is dedicated to helping you find a truck that meets your needs and fits your budget. By offering comprehensive vehicle history reports, we aim to build trust and confidence in every purchase.
Visit our dealership or contact us today to explore our inventory and learn more about the vehicle history reports available for each truck. Let us help you find a reliable and trustworthy used truck that you can count on for years to come.
2. Mechanical Condition
Ensuring the mechanical condition of a used truck is paramount to guaranteeing its reliability and longevity. A thorough inspection can reveal potential issues that might not be immediately visible.
Importance of a Thorough Mechanical Inspection
Before finalizing your purchase, it's crucial to have the truck inspected by a trusted mechanic. Here are some key areas to focus on:
Engine: Check for any signs of leaks, unusual noises, or excessive exhaust smoke. These can indicate underlying engine problems.
Transmission: Ensure smooth shifting without any delays or harsh movements. Listen for any grinding or whining noises.
Brakes: Test the brakes for responsiveness and check for any squeaking or grinding sounds, which could indicate worn brake pads or rotors.
Suspension: Evaluate the suspension system by driving over bumps and paying attention to how the truck handles. Any excessive bouncing or noise could be a red flag.
Steering: Check for smooth and responsive steering. Any stiffness or unusual noises should be investigated.
Tires: Inspect the tires for even wear and sufficient tread depth. Uneven wear can suggest alignment issues or suspension problems.
Common Issues to Look For
During the inspection, keep an eye out for these common problems:
Rust and Corrosion: Examine the truck's body and undercarriage for any signs of rust or corrosion, especially in older vehicles. Rust can weaken the structural integrity of the truck.
Fluid Leaks: Check under the truck for any leaks of oil, transmission fluid, coolant, or brake fluid. Leaks can indicate significant issues that need to be addressed.
Electrical Systems: Test all electrical components, including lights, wipers, and the infotainment system, to ensure they are functioning correctly.
Exhaust System: Listen for any unusual sounds from the exhaust and check for any visible damage or leaks.
Overstock Vehicles Tampa: Quality Assurance
At Overstock Vehicles Tampa, we understand the importance of a reliable used truck. That's why all our trucks undergo rigorous mechanical inspections before being added to our inventory. Our expert technicians meticulously examine each vehicle to ensure it meets our high standards of quality and reliability.
Whether you're browsing for used trucks in Tampa, Lakeland, or St. Petersburg, you can trust Overstock Vehicles Tampa to provide vehicles in excellent mechanical condition. We take pride in offering trucks that you can depend on, with the peace of mind that comes from knowing they have been thoroughly inspected.
Visit our dealership or contact us today to explore our selection of quality used trucks. Our team is here to help you find a truck that not only meets your needs but also exceeds your expectations in terms of reliability and performance.
3. Mileage
Mileage is a key factor to consider when buying a used truck. It can provide insight into the truck’s usage and potential longevity.
The Significance of Mileage
Mileage refers to the total number of miles a truck has traveled since it was first put on the road. While it’s not the only indicator of a vehicle’s condition, it plays a significant role in assessing its overall wear and tear.
Low Mileage: Generally, a truck with lower mileage is preferable as it typically indicates less wear on the engine, transmission, and other critical components. Low Mileage trucks often have a longer remaining lifespan.
High Mileage: High Mileage trucks can still be a good purchase, especially if they have been well maintained. Regular maintenance and service records can mitigate concerns about high mileage.
Evaluating Mileage in Context
While considering mileage, it’s important to evaluate it in the context of the truck’s age and usage:
Age of the Truck: A newer truck with high mileage might have been used for long distance commuting or as a fleet vehicle, which can be less stressful than frequent short trips. Conversely, an older truck with low mileage might have been used sparingly but could have suffered from prolonged periods of inactivity.
Maintenance History: A well documented maintenance history can significantly enhance the appeal of a high mileage truck. Regular oil changes, tire rotations, and other routine services indicate that the truck has been cared for properly.
Usage Type: Consider how the truck was used. Was it primarily driven on highways, which is less taxing on the engine and brakes, or did it endure frequent stop and go city driving or heavy towing and hauling?
Overstock Vehicles Tampa: Mileage Transparency
At Overstock Vehicles Tampa, we believe in complete transparency. We provide detailed information about the mileage and condition of every used truck in our inventory. Our team will help you understand the implications of the truck’s mileage and provide context through its service records and overall condition.
Whether you’re shopping for used trucks in Tampa, Lakeland, or St. Petersburg, Overstock Vehicles Tampa is committed to helping you find the right truck. We offer a wide selection of trucks with various mileage levels, ensuring you can choose the one that best fits your needs and budget.
Visit our dealership or contact us today to explore our inventory of quality used trucks. Our knowledgeable staff is here to guide you through the process, providing all the information you need to make an informed decision. Let us help you find a reliable truck that you can count on for years to come.
4. Service Records
Service records are a vital aspect of evaluating a used truck's condition. They provide a window into the vehicle's maintenance history, helping you gauge how well it has been cared for over the years.
The Role of Service Records
Service records document the maintenance and repair history of a truck. Key details to look for include:
Routine Maintenance: Regular oil changes, tire rotations, and brake inspections indicate that the truck has been well maintained.
Major Repairs: Records of significant repairs, such as transmission rebuilds or engine overhauls, can signal potential past issues but also show that these issues have been addressed.
Recall Work: Confirmation that any manufacturer recalls have been serviced can be a good sign of a truck’s reliability and the previous owner’s diligence.
Types of Maintenance to Look For
When reviewing service records, pay attention to the following:
Oil Changes: Regular oil changes are essential for engine health. Look for records showing consistent oil changes according to the manufacturer’s recommended intervals.
Brake Maintenance: Routine brake inspections and replacements are crucial for safety. Ensure there are records of brake servicing.
Tire Care: Tire rotations, alignments, and replacements indicate proper attention to tire health, which affects overall driving performance.
Fluid Checks: Regular checks and replacements of fluids, including transmission fluid, coolant, and brake fluid, are vital for a truck’s longevity.
Filter Replacements: Regular replacement of air filters, fuel filters, and cabin filters contribute to the efficient operation of the truck.
Overstock Vehicles Tampa: Commitment to Transparency
At Overstock Vehicles Tampa, we ensure that all our used trucks come with comprehensive service records. We believe in providing our customers with complete transparency, allowing them to make informed decisions.
Whether you're searching in Tampa, Lakeland, or St. Petersburg, you can trust that Overstock Vehicles Tampa offers used trucks with well documented maintenance histories. Our dedication to quality and reliability ensures that you drive away with confidence.
Visit our dealership or contact us today to explore our inventory of meticulously maintained used trucks. Our team is here to assist you in finding a truck that not only meets your needs but also has a proven track record of reliable service.
5. Towing and Hauling Capacity
For many truck buyers, towing and hauling capacity are crucial factors. Whether you're hauling equipment for work or towing a boat for weekend getaways, it's important to choose a truck that can handle your specific needs.
Understanding Towing and Hauling Capacity
Towing capacity refers to the maximum weight a truck can safely tow, while hauling capacity indicates how much weight the truck can carry in its bed. These capacities are determined by the truck's engine power, transmission, axle ratios, and overall build.
Towing Capacity: Ensure the truck you choose can tow the weight of your trailer, boat, or other loads. Exceeding the towing capacity can lead to mechanical failures and safety issues.
Hauling Capacity: Consider the weight of the cargo you typically carry. Overloading the truck bed can strain the suspension and affect handling.
Matching Your Needs to the Truck’s Capabilities
Assess your specific requirements:
Work Needs: If you’re using the truck for work, consider the type of equipment you’ll be towing or hauling. Ensure the truck has the necessary power and durability.
Recreational Use: For recreational purposes, like towing a camper or boat, ensure the truck’s towing capacity exceeds the weight of your trailer or watercraft.
Versatility: Some trucks offer a balance of towing and hauling capabilities, making them versatile for various needs.
Examples of High Capacity Trucks
At Overstock Vehicles Tampa, we offer a range of trucks with impressive towing and hauling capacities. Our knowledgeable staff can help you understand the specifications of each model to find the perfect match for your needs.
Overstock Vehicles Tampa: Expertise and Guidance
Overstock Vehicles Tampa is your goto destination for finding used trucks with the right towing and hauling capacities. Serving customers from Tampa, Lakeland, and St. Petersburg, we provide detailed information on each truck’s capabilities to ensure you make the best choice.
Visit our dealership or contact us today to explore our inventory and find the perfect truck that meets your towing and hauling needs. Our team is ready to assist you in selecting a truck that delivers the power and performance you require.
6. Fuel Efficiency
In today’s world, fuel efficiency is a key consideration for many truck buyers. Choosing a truck that offers good fuel economy can save you money and reduce your environmental impact.
Importance of Fuel Efficiency
Fuel efficiency refers to the distance a truck can travel on a specific amount of fuel. It's an important factor for both cost savings and environmental reasons:
Cost Savings: Trucks with better fuel efficiency require less frequent refueling, saving you money over time.
Environmental Impact: Lower fuel consumption means reduced emissions, contributing to a smaller carbon footprint.
Factors Affecting Fuel Efficiency
Several factors influence a truck’s fuel efficiency:
Engine Size: Smaller engines typically consume less fuel, but larger engines may be necessary for towing and hauling.
Transmission Type: Modern automatic transmissions often offer better fuel efficiency compared to older models or manual transmissions.
Driving Habits: Gentle acceleration and maintaining steady speeds can improve fuel efficiency.
Weight: Lighter trucks generally have better fuel efficiency. Removing unnecessary weight can also improve fuel economy.
Aerodynamics: Trucks designed with aerodynamic features can reduce drag and improve fuel efficiency.
FuelEfficient Truck Options
At Overstock Vehicles Tampa, we offer a variety of fuel efficient used trucks to suit different needs. Our inventory includes models known for their balance of power and fuel economy, ensuring you don’t have to sacrifice performance for efficiency.
Overstock Vehicles Tampa: Your Source for FuelEfficient Trucks
Overstock Vehicles Tampa is dedicated to helping you find the perfect balance between performance and fuel efficiency. Serving customers from Tampa, Lakeland, and St. Petersburg, we provide a range of options to meet your needs.
Visit our dealership or contact us today to explore our selection of fuel efficient used trucks. Our team is here to help you choose a truck that offers the best combination of power, efficiency, and reliability.
7. Price and Financing Options
The final, but equally important, aspect of buying a used truck is the price and available financing options. Finding a truck that fits your budget and securing favorable financing terms can make the purchasing process smoother and more affordable.
Evaluating the Price of a Used Truck
When assessing the price of a used truck, consider the following:
Market Value: Research the market value of the truck model you’re interested in. This can help you determine if the asking price is fair.
Condition and Features: A well maintained truck with additional features may command a higher price but can offer better value in the long run.
Negotiation: Be prepared to negotiate the price. Dealerships often have some flexibility, especially if you have done your research and can present comparable prices.
Financing Options
Understanding your financing options is crucial:
Loan Terms: Look for favorable loan terms, including interest rates, repayment periods, and monthly payments that fit your budget.
Credit Score: Your credit score can significantly impact the financing options available to you. Higher credit scores typically qualify for better rates.
Down Payment: A larger down payment can reduce the overall loan amount and lower monthly payments.
Overstock Vehicles Tampa: Competitive Pricing and Flexible Financing
At Overstock Vehicles Tampa, we offer competitive pricing on all our used trucks. Our goal is to provide great value while ensuring you get a quality vehicle. Additionally, we offer flexible financing options tailored to suit various budgets and financial situations.
Whether you're shopping in Tampa, Lakeland, or St. Petersburg, our finance team is here to assist you. We work with a network of lenders to provide the best financing solutions, helping you secure the truck you need at a price you can afford.
Visit our dealership or contact us today to explore our inventory and financing options. Our team is dedicated to helping you find a used truck that meets your needs and fits your budget, making the buying process as seamless and stress free as possible.
Call or Visit Overstock Vehicles!
Buying a used truck is a significant investment, and making the right choice involves careful consideration of several important factors. By focusing on the vehicle history report, mechanical condition, mileage, service records, towing and hauling capacity, fuel efficiency, and price and financing options, you can ensure you select a truck that meets your needs and offers the best value for your money.
At Overstock Vehicles Tampa, we are committed to helping you find the perfect used truck. Our extensive inventory, rigorous quality checks, and transparent practices make us the goto destination for used trucks in Tampa, Lakeland, St. Petersburg, and the surrounding areas. We take pride in offering high quality vehicles and exceptional customer service, ensuring that your truck buying experience is smooth and satisfactory.
We invite you to visit our dealership to explore our wide range of used trucks and experience our exceptional service firsthand. Our knowledgeable and friendly staff is here to assist you in finding the truck that best fits your needs and budget. If you have any questions or would like to schedule a test drive, please don’t hesitate to contact us. In the meantime, please check out this blog on whether you should get warranty for your used vehicle.
Best Pickup Truck Buying Guide
Compact trucks are usually the least expensive way to join the club, and they are offered by many manufacturers. Full-sized pickups, sometimes called half-ton trucks, are by far the biggest-selling type. These carry the designation 1500 in the case of the Chevrolet Silverado, GMC Sierra, and Ram, and Ford refers to its popular offering as the F-150. Toyota also offers the Tundra. Heavy-duty trucks are designated 2500 and 3500 (or F-250 and F-350, respectively), with the larger numbers conveying greater capabilities in terms of towing and payload. And the larger the number, the more commercial-focused the truck becomes. That being said, these brands do offer luxury-oriented trims of their heavy-duty models.
As with all types, buyers can choose regular two-door cabs, extended-cabs with limited second-row seating, and roomy four-door crew-cab body styles; two-, four-, or all-wheel drive; and tons of engine and transmission combinations.
Compact Pickup Trucks
This pickup truck category consists of the Chevrolet Colorado (and its corporate cousin, the GMC Canyon), Ford Maverick, Ford Ranger, Honda Ridgeline, Hyundai Santa Cruz, Jeep Gladiator, Nissan Frontier, and Toyota Tacoma.
Most are built using body-on-frame construction like their full-sized brethren, and they usually offer a range of four-cylinder and V6 engines. The Ridgeline, Maverick, and Santa Cruz use unibody construction—borrowing underpinnings from crossover SUVs in each automaker’s lineup. This gives them more car-like ride and handling characteristics compared with body-on-frame models.
What you’ll spend: Prices for the most compact trucks start around $24,000 for a basic 2WD Maverick. At the other extreme, a top-trim Gladiator can run more than $55,000. Most middle-ground, 4WD crew-cab versions that CR has tested came in around $38,000 to $42,000.
Full-Sized Pickup Trucks
These are the brawny workhorses of the pickup world. They’re larger and more rugged, and they ride higher off the ground than compacts. Current models in this class include the Chevrolet Silverado 1500, Ford F-150, GMC Sierra 1500, Nissan Titan, Ram 1500, and Toyota Tundra. New electric trucks include the Ford F-150 Lightning, GMC Hummer EV, and Rivian R1T. Soon the Chevrolet Silverado EV, GMC Sierra EV, Ram 1500 REV, and Tesla Cybertruck will join the ranks.
Full-sized trucks form the backbone of the pickup market. They serve well as work trucks and, for many, as a substitute for the family car. Powertrain choices vary from turbocharged four-cylinders, V6s, old-school V8s, full hybrids, and even all-electric power.
What you’ll spend: Most decently equipped crew-cab models with 4WD cost between $48,000 and $60,000. Adding any of the available turbodiesel engines raises the price considerably. Of course, there are multiple ways to break the bank with these trucks, with high-priced, premium trim levels and many choices for packages and accessories. Prices can soar to $80,000 and beyond.
Heavy-Duty Trucks
These supersized trucks carry numerical designations such as 2500 or 3500. They are configured for muscling serious loads and for hauling fifth-wheel trailers that connect to a hitch point in the center of the cargo bed. These are bulky trucks for the most demanding chores, making them overkill for most noncommercial purposes shy of hauling a huge trailer. Only Detroit competes in this heavyweight division.
What you’ll spend: A no-frills, 2WD, regular-cab, 2500-series work truck starts at around $45,000 before options. And a fully loaded, top-end, 4WD crew-cab model with a diesel engine can reach the $100,000 mark. Add even more for the 3500s.
Cab Size and Seating
Regular cabs have only front-row seating and are the least expensive to buy, but they tend to be available only in basic, work-oriented configurations. Extended cabs are far more useful due to their small rear seat and set of shortened rear doors. Crew cabs are the most popular configuration and provide the roomiest interior accommodations, especially in full-sized trucks.
Pickup trucks are among the only vehicles left that can be configured to seat three across in the front seat. Rear seats in extended-cab trucks can be cramped for adults, with limited legroom, though they’re often acceptable for kids. The real advantage of an extended cab is additional interior storage. Crew-cab trucks have four full-sized doors and a rear seating (or cargo) area on a par with midsized and full-sized SUVs, but these large cabs usually come with a smaller cargo bed.
As you move up the trim lines, cloth seats turn into leather, and heated and cooled seats with increasing levels of adjustability become a given for the top trims. Other optional creature comforts include heated steering wheels, enormous touch-screen infotainment systems, and massive sunroofs that make high-roller truck buyers feel like they’re driving in the lap of luxury. However, getting into many of these cabs can be a hike; even with available running boards, it’s a steep climb up into most trucks.
The Bed
This is, of course, what sets trucks apart from all other vehicles. The open cargo bed lends itself to accomplishing serious chores, such as moving large appliances, bulky furniture, tools or equipment, motorcycles, snow blowers, and outdoors-only cargo like wood chips, manure, and trash. These are tasks most people wouldn’t want to (or couldn’t) do with a minivan or an SUV. Among other considerations, the open bed leaves cargo vulnerable to weather or theft.
In a full-sized pickup, the average bed length is 6 feet but can go up to 8 feet, usually with a regular or extended cab. Four-door crew cabs can generally be had with a 5- or 6-foot bed. Compact pickup beds usually run 4½ to 6 feet, depending on cab configuration. Do consider how you will use the bed, and how often, because this may guide some major decisions.
There are many bed accessories available, including LED lights, a tailgate step, stowable load ramps, tie-down loops, stake pockets, and remote tailgate releases. Some even come with power-operated tailgates. Spray-in and drop-in liners are popular for added protection when hauling items in the bed.
The tailgate has become a differentiating factor among trucks. The Honda Ridgeline comes with a dual-action tailgate, which allows it to flip down like a conventional tailgate or swing sideways like a door. The Silverado and Sierra are available with a tailgate that can act as a step, a work surface, or even an extension to the bed itself. Ford has added locations for clamping building materials to the tailgate of the F-150. Most or all of these features are offered by just about every brand.
Engines and Fuel Economy
Engines range from small four-cylinders and V6s to V8s and big diesels. For top marks in fuel efficiency, look no further than the Maverick hybrid, which delivered 37 mpg overall in our tests—the best by far of any other pickup.
Ford offers a hybrid F-150 that includes a powerful 3.5-liter turbocharged V6. In our tests, it returned 20 mpg overall in a crew cab, four-wheel-drive model—just 1 mpg better than Ford’s 2.7-liter V6. The 1500-series diesel engines from GM and Ram also rank high, with 23 mpg overall.
Heavy-duty trucks are built for working hard. They create a lot of power and torque, with fuel economy around 14 to 16 mpg overall for the big rigs.
All-electric trucks offer yet another powertrain option. The base Ford F-150 Lightning delivers 240 miles of cruising range, and the extended-range model boosts that up to 320 miles. The Rivian R1T provides an EPA-rated range of 255 to 410 miles. But aside from that, these EV trucks are super-quick. For example, our R1T zipped from 0 to 60 mph in just 3.8 seconds. Our tested F-150 Lightning is also blisteringly quick, with 775 lb.-ft. of near-instant torque at the driver’s beck and call.
Towing
Pickup trucks are well suited to hauling boats, cars, utility trailers, and campers behind them. The owner’s manual will note the maximum weight that can be carried (payload) or towed. Buyers can have the manufacturer or dealer install towing equipment, or they can add it themselves, using aftermarket parts. Purchasing from the factory is the best choice because installation could involve complex wiring for the trailer brakes and lights, special attachment points for the tow hitch, and accessories such as a heavy-duty alternator and a transmission oil cooler. In addition, the manufacturer-engineered packages come backed by a factory warranty. Most pickups can be ordered with a trailer-brake controller.
Other available towing features include a hill hold assist, trailer sway control, a transparent trailer-view camera that allows the driver to seemingly see through the trailer, and steering assist that compensates for a trailer.
There are several factors that dictate a truck’s towing capacity, in addition to engine power. They include cab and bed size, wheelbase length, rear axle ratio, and the presence (or absence) of a factory towing package. The differences can be significant: A properly equipped full-sized truck can safely tow up to 12,000 pounds, but some configurations are limited to as little as 5,500 pounds. It is important to confirm the capabilities of the specific model you’re considering, rather than select based on marketing.
A typical compact pickup truck can tow between 5,000 and 7,500 pounds, and heavy-duty pickups can be configured to tow over 35,000 pounds. It’s important to understand what you intend to tow and to research the specific truck you are considering to determine its safe towing capacity.
For ambitious hauling or towing, consider getting a diesel engine; many are available in both regular and heavy-duty models. The higher torque output associated with diesel engines makes heavy towing easier.
Electric truck range is significantly reduced when towing a trailer based on our testing.
Ride and Handling
Trucks are designed to carry weight in the bed, so most deliver a stiff ride when the bed is empty. The heavy-duty models are borderline punishing. Some models, such as the Honda Ridgeline and Ram 1500, have made the greatest strides in delivering a reasonably comfortable and quiet ride. With just about any truck, placing even a modest load in the bed helps calm the ride somewhat.
With the electric trucks’ extra weight, the ride is improved over many standard 1500-series models but is still not quite up to the level of the Ram.
When it comes to handling, the sheer bulk of many of these gargantuan machines means that buyers should abandon all hope of nimble moves. Again, compared with full-sized trucks, the compact models have an edge when it comes to responsive handling—relatively speaking. However, buyers should expect trucks to have clumsy and somewhat ponderous handling.
Safety and Active Driver Assistance Systems Technologies
Consumer Reports’ safety ratings include assessments of crash-avoidance capabilities and crash-test results, based on tests performed by the federal government and insurance industry. Further, our road tests detail issues regarding child seat installation and headlight performance.
Forward collision warning (FCW), automatic emergency braking (AEB) with pedestrian detection, and blind spot warning (BSW) are crash-avoidance technologies that CR believes should be standard on all vehicles. These should be on the next new or used model you buy.
FCW technology provides a visual, audible, and/or tactile alert to warn the driver of an impending collision with a car or an object directly in its path. AEB responds to an imminent collision, braking if the driver does not react in time. BSW monitors a vehicle’s flanks, warning the driver that another vehicle is alongside it, where it may be difficult to see.
Other modern safety advances include telematics systems that can alert emergency personnel if an airbag deploys, such as GM’s OnStar service; lane departure warning systems that sound an alert if the driver changes lanes without signaling; lane keeping assistance to maintain the vehicle’s position in the lane if the driver starts to drift; and rear cross traffic alert, which monitors the sides of the vehicle when the driver is backing out of a parking spot, and can even apply the brakes if needed. (Learn more about car safety.)
