small medium fleet

Most Unreliable Pickup Trucks You Need To Avoid

Trucks You Need To Avoid

Pickup trucks' popularity stems from the fact that they are reliable and capable of handling a variety of tasks. It is expected to serve its owner well for a very long time, a donkey's age, maintaining its usefulness and dependability. To that end, some pickup trucks are built to last till the end of time.

Some people have problems with dependability right off the off. A workhorse that refuses to pull or haul and then has a temper tantrum in the middle of the road is a terrible investment. You can kick the rear ends of these mechanical workhorses all you want and no animal rights activists will come after you. People in the market for a new pickup should do their research on the vehicle's reliability and not be fooled by low prices on questionable vehicles.

One of the most adaptable classes of automobiles is the pickup truck. Those at the top of the class in terms of durability are well-suited for towing huge trailers and carrying hefty loads. They're perfect "lifestyle" cars for hauling around dirty sports gear, camping gear, and anything else won't fit inside a closed car. Four-door "crew cab" cars, even the most lavishly equipped ones, are replacing luxury sedans and SUVs in increasing numbers of American households.

If you plan to use your pickup truck for heavy work on a regular basis, as is recommended for any vehicle, you should prioritise durability over all else when making your purchase. Modern pickup trucks have a plethora of high-tech amenities for the driver's comfort and protection, expanding the concept of "truck reliability" far beyond the realm of mere mechanical functioning.

We researched the current crop of full-size and mid-size pickups using two credible sources to estimate their trustworthiness. We analysed information gathered by J.D. Power & Associates and ratings provided by the trusted consumer advocacy group Consumer Reports.

It's excellent news for people in the market for a new or used pickup truck as most modern pickups are reliable and sturdy enough to last for the average truck owner's lifetime. However, in the opinions of the owners polled by the various sources, some were clearly scored lower than others. In the above presentation, we highlight potential trouble spots for models that received a low rating from both JDP and C.R.

Daily, pickup trucks seem to separate themselves more and further from their original functions, as they get more and more polished. As a result, prospective buyers of trucks have fewer options as prices continue to rise. That's why most people shopping for a pickup truck nowadays are likely to investigate the used-vehicle market. However, there are drawbacks to purchasing a pre-owned pickup. The bad state of the truck and the myriad of concealed faults that can be detected by only a skilled eye stand out most prominently. Unfortunately, we are unable to assist you with this matter. However, we can compile a list of problematic pickup trucks that have been reported by drivers. Here are some examples of secondhand pickup vehicles to avoid if you're concerned about their dependability.

Pickup truck owners use their cars for more than just getting from point A to point B; having a recalled problem fixed at the dealership can cut into time spent working and playing. As a result, customers experience a great deal of stress when their vehicle's manufacturer notifies them of an issue that, in most cases, could have been averted during production. It's true that recalls are rare, but the data from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration shows that some pickups are more likely to be affected than others.

Things are different now than they were back then. From a median age of 8.5 years in 1995, the average age of an automobile on the road has increased to 11.5 now. The average American now drives 15,000 miles per year, which translates to more than 172,500 miles during the lifetime of their vehicle, up from 127,000 miles in the 1990s.

The good news is that current automobiles and trucks can handle it, as they are more sturdy and dependable than their forebears and are constructed to withstand the additional wear and strain. However, they are not immune to the issues that older models had, especially as the odometer hits the six-digit mark. This is most apparent in long-lasting pickup vehicles. Due to the high demand and high price of new pickup trucks, the demand for pre-owned trucks is at an all-time high. Although we just discussed ten factors to keep in mind when shopping for a used truck, it's important to remember that every make and model has its own quirks.

By researching the most purchased pickups in the United States, we were able to compile a list of the most common difficulties experienced by trucks with over 100,000 miles on the odometer and what to look out for when shopping for a high-mileage pickup.

Many people who own trucks are quite loyal to either Ford or Chevrolet and would require a compelling argument to transfer brands. Thus, the competition between the F-150 and the Silverado is the fiercest in all of America, and both trucks are made to surpass the other.

The earlier Silverados, however, share the same problems as their competitors. Frequently reported problems in earlier models with many of miles on them include excessive oil consumption, faulty anti-lock braking sensors, and an annoying banging sound coming from the engine upon cold starts.

Inspect any potential used trucks for these problems and fix them before buying. If they aren't, you should plan on spending a few weekends fixing up your used pickup.

Unfortunately, the decline of Chevrolet appears to be accelerating. The 6.0-liter V8 in the 2017 Chevrolet Silverado 2500HD was capable of releasing 360 hp and 380 lb-ft of torque. It's unfortunate that they neglected to equip this vehicle with adequate steering, as this defeats the purpose of a vehicle in general and a pickup truck in particular. There were also numerous problems with the vehicle's engine and transmission.

Silverado has had its fair share of highs and lows over the years; just because there were nine troublesome model years in a row doesn't imply they were all poor. We'll go over the most common problems, but used Silverados should be approached with caution. Most people who have an interest in pickup trucks know that rusty brake lines are a common problem with older Silverados. The engines of several Millennium models have also been problematic. Steering-related issues are the most common complaint about the 2004 and 2005 Silverado, specifically a clunking sounds emanating from the steering.

It's recommended that you keep away from the 2007 Chevrolet Silverado, especially if it's equipped with the 5.3L V8. That one is very wasteful using oil in addition to petrol. Some owners have reported adding a quart or more of oil every thousand miles. That holds true for 2008 as well. The newest Silverados, from model years 2014 and 2015, have their own set of problems. Not only is the paint flaking off, but the air conditioning is also broken. However, more major problems include a shaky and noisy suspension and an automatic transmission that doesn't perform well from the get-go. GM's dismissal of transmission malfunction as incidental to "regular operations" further contributes to the problem.

Check out this post on WHAT USED TRUCKS TO AVOID? – USED PICKUPS TO TOTALLY AVOID FOREVER

Chevrolet Silverado

Silverado has had its fair share of highs and lows over the years, and just because there was a rough patch spanning nine consecutive models doesn't make the whole lot of them poor. We'll detail the most common problems, but you should still exercise caution when purchasing a pre-owned Silverado. Most people who are into pickup trucks are aware of the problem of rusty brake lines on older Silverados. There have also been engine problems with several millennium models. The most prevalent steering-related issue with 2004 and 2005 Silverados is a clunking noise.

A 2007 Chevrolet Silverado with a 5.3L V8 is likely not the truck for you. Oil is also consumed at a high rate in that one. A quart or two of oil, according to some owners, must be added every thousand miles. The same is true for the year 2008. Newer Silverados from 2014 and 2015 have their own set of problems. The peeling paint and broken air conditioning are just the beginning. However, more major problems include a shaky and noisy suspension and an automatic transmission that doesn't perform well from the get-go. Furthermore, G.M.'s attitude towards transmission malfunction, which it dismisses as "regular operations," is not helpful.

Ford F-150

The Ford F-150 is without competition. But it doesn't mean it doesn't have its problems, too. Ford has done a fantastic job fixing the F-150's more widespread issues in recent model years.

The 2018 Ford F-150 was a promising new star at first, but as it came closer to the ground, so did the number of issues. Even while the F-Series is still the best-selling model in the United States, it is not without issues. Consider the transmission, engine, exterior features, electricals, wheel hubs, and so on. More than 600,000 automobiles were impacted by a recall of seatback assemblies. More than a million automobiles have been recalled due to a potential fire hazard associated with the pretension belts.

Though it may be the best-selling car in America, that doesn't mean it's problem-free. Ford F-150 owners who purchased a vehicle from the 2004 or 2005 model years had a living hell on their hands. Blue Oval still hadn't sorted things out in the first two years of the eleventh generation. The majority of the complaints are not necessarily related to the engine, yet engine problems are the most serious. Throughout its first couple of years on the market, the F-150 has been plagued by a variety of engine issues, including spark plugs that break off within the head or pop out, excessive engine noise, and stalling. Then there's the problem with the power windows, which is prevalent in both the 2004 and 2005 versions. A transmission breakdown is the cherry on top of an already bad situation. It goes without saying that there were more than a dozen recalls.

Although Ford has improved upon these failings in later years, 2010 was likewise a failure. The engine wasn't the source of the most frequent problem, as you might expect. It was actually the back window that shattered on its own. Apparently the back window would randomly break without any external force. However, transmission issues persisted. It's important to bring up the challenges of transitioning from second to first, such as tremors and erratic movement.

Though it may be the best-selling car in America, that doesn't mean it's problem-free. Ford F-150 owners who purchased a vehicle from the 2004 or 2005 model years had a living hell on their hands. Blue Oval still hadn't sorted things out in the first two years of the eleventh generation. Despite being the most significant concern, engine troubles are not the most common complaint. Throughout its first couple of years on the market, the F-150 has been plagued by a variety of engine issues, including spark plugs that break off within the head or pop out, excessive engine noise, and stalling. Then there's the problem with the power windows, which is prevalent in both the 2004 and 2005 versions. Finally, there's the transmission breakdown as a frosting on the cake. Needless to say, there were more than a dozen recalls.

Ford has fixed most of these problems in following model years, but 2010 was still a failure. Surprisingly, the most common problem wasn't with the motor. It was actually the back window that shattered on its own. Apparently the back window would randomly break without any external force. However, transmission issues persisted. It's important to bring up the challenges of transitioning from second to first, such as tremors and erratic movement.

Ridgeback Service Bodies is a premier ute & truck service body manufacturer for trades vehicles. Based in Melbourne, Ridgeback provides Australia's largest range of tough, quality ute & truck service bodies.

Ram 1500

Ram's sales have skyrocketed in recent years when it separated from Dodge. They were so successful that their truck eventually overtook the Chevrolet Silverado as the country's best-selling pickup truck. This achievement speaks to the quality that Ram has placed into its trucks.

That wasn't always the case for the business, either. Looking back to older model years, there are a few worrying faults that seem to come up around 100,000 miles. A common issue with early-2000s pickup vehicles, for instance, was a cracked dashboard. Many Ram drivers also had issues with the vehicle rusting away.

Despite receiving a high score in most categories, the current generation Ram 1500 full-size pickup is predicted to have below-average reliability, earning it a 2 out of 5 from Consumer Reports. We believe these ratings apply only to the 2019 Ram 1500 "Classic," the truck's predecessor that is still on sale despite the 2019 redesign; durability data has not yet been provided. It received a 1 for the 2016 model year. The power plants, automobile electronics, and temperature control systems of some earlier instances were poorly reviewed. The 2016 Ram 1500 had an average score of 3 from J.D. Power for its powertrain and an average score of 2 from the same source for its body/interior and features/accessories.

The RAM 1500 and the Dodge equivalent both had issues in their heydeys (and they still have). If you're looking for a used Dodge, avoid buying a model year between 2001 and 2003. You should stay far away from them. They were terrible then, and the passage of time hasn't made matters any better. Problems with the transmission, oil sludge buildup so thick that the engine won't start, broken engines, and even fractured dashboards... Just pick one. The 4.7L Magnum V8 engine appears to be the primary offender. In addition, Dodge Ram 1500s from 2002–2003 have been the subject of a dozen separate recalls. The year 2001 version has been recalled 16 times already. Don't feel the need to elaborate. The Chrysler TIPM, known for wreaking havoc beneath the hood, is finally included in the final generation of Dodge Rams in 2011, which has received below-average safety ratings.

The electronic components of the newer RAM 1500 are the primary source of their problems. Infrequent though they may be, problems with the stereo, the cruise control, and other electronics in a vehicle are nonetheless possible. It's common to have to buy a brand new system, which can cost upwards of $150, while the cost of just the diagnostics is only $150. Put another $2,300 on the chalkboard. There are also the more common problems such as transmission hiccups, electrical malfunctions, and engine breakdowns.

Unreliable Utes to avoid

Toyota Tundra

Toyota's Tundra is an attempt to break into the large pickup truck market. Its sales haven't caught up to the Silverado or F-150, but the Tundra still has a dedicated fan base. This is likely because Toyota has an excellent track record of producing dependable products.

The Tundra generally lives up to its name. You should know that the first-generation and early second-generation Tundras have rust problems if you're looking to buy a used one. Do not buy a truck without first doing a comprehensive inspection for rust, which can be a death sentence for any vehicle.

The Toyota Tundra isn't exactly faulty, but it is getting on in age and might use an update. Neither the ride quality nor the fuel economy are very impressive. There have been multiple recalls due to improper airbag deployment, and the brakes aren't any good.

For the rear cross member, 110,000 Toyota Tundras produced between 2000 and 2003 have been recalled due to rust concerns. However, the worst years were the last of the first generation and the first of the second. Several problems occurred, including the secondary air pump failing, the check engine lights coming on, and cold piston slap. In addition, the paint is starting to fade and look dull (particularly on the roof), and the radio is broken. A dozen recalls covering model years 2005–2008 Toyota Tundra speak volumes. The 2007 Tundra is the one to have if you're looking for a big, obnoxious pickup powered by a 5.7L V8.

There was a major recall of 110,000 Tundras (from 2000-2003) due to a rust problem with the rear cross member. In contrast, the worst years were the first two of the second generation's model run. Cold piston slap, malfunctioning secondary air pump, and engine warning lights were just a few of the problems. In addition, the paint is starting to fade and look dull (particularly on the roof), and the radio is broken. Indicative of the seriousness of the problem, Toyota issued a dozen separate recalls for the 2005-2008 Tundra model years. The 2007 Tundra is the truck to buy if you want a big, powerful pickup with a 5.7-liter V8 engine and lots of noise.

Check out this post on WHAT’S THE BEST TRADIE UTE? – BEST UTE FOR TRADIES

Honda Ridgeline

After a three-year absence, Honda brought back the Ridgeline for 2017 and it's everything they hoped it would be: a family-friendly, versatile pickup. The first generation vehicle was small and flexible, but it was never a hit with American truck buyers.

The new truck is based on the same chassis as the Pilot SUV and the Odyssey minivan, therefore the late models were similarly underpowered compared to full-size pickups. You may have to deal with a drooping rear suspension and various engine or transmission troubles if you've been particularly hard on your older Ridgeline (specifically a model from 2006 to 2008). Be wary of rust if you plan on driving it in colder locations; because the bed is built into the rest of the vehicle, fixing any rust damage will need expensive sheet metal work.

The verdict on the new revived Ridgeline has not yet been rendered, but we do know quite a bit about the previous generations of vehicles. The worst years were 2006 through 2008, with 2006 being the worst of those. While the 2007 and 2008 Honda Ridgelines had problems like peeling paint, premature rust, and broken air conditioning, the 2006 Honda Ridgeline had significantly more severe problems. The infamous #4 cylinder frequently showed up bad, with blue smoke billowing from the tailpipe. The spark plug can only be changed so many times before the complete engine must be replaced. Furthermore, a 3.5-liter V6 engine doesn't come cheap.

The verdict on the new reborn Ridgeline is yet out, but we know a lot about the previous generations of vehicles. The worst years were 2006 through 2008, with 2006 being the worst of those. Despite the fact that the 2007 and 2008 Honda Ridgelines had problems like peeling paint, premature rust, and broken air conditioning, the 2006 Honda Ridgeline had considerably more severe problems. The infamous #4 cylinder frequently showed up bad, with blue smoke billowing from the tailpipe. The spark plug can only be changed so many times before the complete engine must be replaced. Furthermore, a 3.5-liter V6 engine doesn't come cheap.

Nissan Titan

Nissan's Titan, a full-size pickup truck introduced in 2004, has not been as successful as other full-size pickup vehicles. Not that the Titan is a horrible truck, but it doesn't stand out from the crowd way the F-150 and Silverado do.

For those in the market for a pre-owned Titan, it's important to know about the problems that afflicted the first generation of the vehicle. Used high-mileage Titans should be inspected for axle problems and fluid leaks, since there have been several instances of difficulties with the rear axle and differential.

2015 was not a fantastic year for the Nissan Titan. It had a cheap interior, terrible gas mileage, and only one engine choice. Still agile in its handling, the Nissan Titan was a letdown in the pickup truck market since it couldn't compete with the hauling capacity of its competitors.

Even though no particular mechanical problems are mentioned, Consumer Reports expects the full-size Nissan Titan will have below-average reliability (a score of 1). However, C.R. is vague on the topic, and the Titan is rated rather well overall. The 2017 model's engine cooling, climate control, and body integrity received the lowest scores for reliability. As such, J.D. Power's 2019 Dependability Study does not include a rating for the Titan.

Prior till recently, the Nissan Titan was widely considered to be one of the most antiquated full-size pickup trucks on the market, a distinction still held by the Titan's smaller sibling, the Nissan Frontier. Titan had a number of reliability concerns when it was still new, between 2004 and 2006. The most typical one included leaking rear axle seals. Things are interconnected, and if Titan loses enough differential oil, the entire rear end will break. Naturally, Nissan never issued a recall for the defective pickups and instead allowed the problem to be fixed on its own.

Prior till recently, the Nissan Titan was widely considered to be one of the most antiquated full-size pickup trucks on the market, a distinction still held by the Titan's smaller sibling, the Nissan Frontier. Titan had a number of reliability concerns when it was still new, between 2004 and 2006. The most typical one included leaking rear axle seals. Things are interconnected, and if Titan loses enough differential oil, the entire rear end will break. Naturally, Nissan never issued a recall for the defective pickups and instead allowed the problem to be fixed on its own.

Chevrolet Colorado

The first-generation Chevrolet Colorado succeeded the reliable S-10. It had the same small proportions as that vehicle, but it wasn't as sturdy.

Colorado has seen the effects of GM's less-than-stellar decade of the 2000s. First-generation truck owners (those who bought their vehicles between 2004 and 2012) have reported issues such as body rust, subpar fit and finish, faulty electrical components, and leaking cabins.

Don't be put off by these little monsters, though: When it comes to modern pickups, the Colorado is now one of the better options.

Chevy Colorado, being less massive than a regular half-ton truck, may appear to be the optimal pick for anyone who doesn't want a trailer haulier. It's less cumbersome, cheaper, and more effective. Unfortunately, the situation in Colorado is not entirely stable.

First, the 2004 and 2005 models had a lot of issues, such as an air conditioner heater that only works on high or doesn't function at all, a failure to start the engine and a persistent check engine light, water leaking into the cab, a rusty frame, etc. The model year 2008 also had its fair share of problems. A fried electrical system and a broken radiator also played a role in the engine overheating. In addition, between 2004-2011, the state of Colorado issued a recall covering all of these vehicles due to issues with the child safety seat or the brake light, both of which might have resulted in an accident. Last but not least, the transmission in the 2015 Chevrolet Colorado has a number of issues, including slow shifting and an inability to downshift properly. Additionally, the engine may stall unexpectedly, so you may want to pass on the 2015 Colorado.

To those who don't need a vehicle capable of towing, the Chevrolet Colorado may appear like the greatest option due to its lower size compared to a standard half-ton truck. It's less cumbersome, cheaper, and more effective. Unfortunately, the situation in Colorado is not entirely stable.

First, the 2004 and 2005 models had a lot of issues, such as the air conditioner's heater only functioning on high or not working at all, the engine failing to start and the check engine light being on all the time, water leaking into the cab, a rusty frame, etc. The model year 2008 also had its fair share of problems. A fried electrical system and a broken radiator also played a role in the engine overheating. In addition, between 2004-2011, the state of Colorado issued a recall covering all of these vehicles due to issues with the child safety seat or the brake light, both of which might have resulted in an accident. Last but not least, the transmission in the 2015 Chevrolet Colorado has a number of issues, including slow shifting and an inability to downshift properly. Additionally, the engine may stall unexpectedly, so you may want to pass on the 2015 Colorado.

Nissan Frontier

There has been much criticism of the Nissan Frontier since the vehicle's introduction for failing to significantly evolve. It's annoying, on the one hand, that the vehicle is so antiquated. In contrast, it has a number of benefits. Since the Frontier has remained unchanged, every problem it has is well-documented.

Now, if you ever find yourself in the market for one, you'll be prepared. Most Frontier models suffer from a serious issue called leakage. There have been complaints of coolant leaking into the transmission. Around the 100,000-mile mark, you might notice this issue.

Taking the truck you're considering for sale in for examination to a reliable mechanic is the best method to find out if it has this issue.

There are numerous reports of issues with the 2012 Nissan Frontier's body paint, powertrain, and inconsistent air conditioning and heating. It was also mentioned that cracked wheels might be the result of a weak hub, and certain specific cases were recalled. Neither the ride nor the cabin were particularly comfortable.

Getting a second-generation Nissan Frontier, especially one from later in the model's production cycle, is a bad idea because of its old looks (and all that goes along with it), but getting one from earlier in the production cycle could be even more of a hassle. Frontier pickup trucks manufactured between 2005 and 2008 have persistent gearbox problems. Furthermore, the problem is not with tyranny per such. Radiator design defect is the root of the issue. More specifically, radiators often crack, allowing coolant to leak into the transmission. The damage done by combining antifreeze and transmission fluid is, of course, permanent. If you enjoy swapping out transmissions, here's an excellent midsize truck to consider.

Getting a second-generation Nissan Frontier, especially one from later in the model's production cycle, is a bad idea because of its old looks (and all that goes along with it), but getting one from earlier in the production cycle could be even more of a hassle. Frontier pickup trucks manufactured between 2005 and 2008 have persistent gearbox problems. Furthermore, the problem is not with tyranny per such. The flawed construction of the radiator is the root of the issue. More specifically, radiators often crack, allowing coolant to leak into the transmission. Evidently, the combination of antifreeze and transmission fluid is disastrous. If you enjoy swapping out transmissions, here's an excellent midsize truck to consider.

Unreliable Pickup Trucks

GMC Sierra

When it comes to size, the GMC Sierra and the Chevrolet Silverado are practically indistinguishable. While there has been a lot of progress made in this area in recent years, it is worth noting that the older versions had one distinct advantage that the newer ones do not: Some sort of hybrid engine setup.

Mild hybrid technology was used with GMC's 5.3-liter Vortec V8 from 2005 to 2007 and again from 2009 to 2013. While it did improve fuel efficiency, the features that helped the most (such an automatic start/stop) might become drawbacks as the trucks racked up more miles.

Keeping one of these on the road will certainly be more difficult than regular gas-powered versions because to the unique transmissions (beginning in 2009) and electrical components.

In 2011, the GMC Sierra 2500 HD was recalled due to melted fusible connections that might spark fires. Everything from the engine to the air conditioning to the electrical system broke. Despite the engine's seeming solidity, there were just too many issues for it to become a best-seller.

The 2019 GMC Sierra 1500's predicted reliability is 2 out of 5 stars by Consumer Reports. The 2016 rating was below average, and the 2017 rating of 1 is much below even that. The Sierra 1500 received an average score of 3 out of 5 in J.D. Power's 2019 Dependability Study, which was based on responses from owners of 2016 models. The Sierra 1500 received a score of 2 for powertrain durability. However, the Chevrolet Silverado 1500, which is mechanically identical to the GMC, receives 4 out of 5 points in JDP's evaluation, so maybe GMC owners are just pickier.

Consumer Reports predicts the 2019 GMC Sierra heavy-duty models will have the worst reliability of any vehicle they test, giving it a score of only 1 out of 5. Also, 2016 models that are already three years old have the same rating. C.R. owners have reported issues with the transmission (minor), fuel system, suspension, brakes, and exhaust in certain model years. JDP gives the Sierra HD a slightly better score of 33 overall, with ratings of 5, 3, and 2 for the powertrain, exterior, and interior, respectively. The Chevy variants performed better in the J.D. Power poll once again, earning flawless ratings of 5 in every category.

Check out this post on WHICH IS BETTER, NAVARA OR RANGER? – FORD RANGER VS. NISSAN NAVARA

Toyota Tacoma

The Toyota Tacoma has dominated the midsize pickup truck market for almost two decades. The Tacoma has proven to be just about as much vehicle as anyone needs due to its convenient size, near full-size capability, and rock-solid dependability.

However, in 2016, Toyota released a brand-new model to replace the long-running one. Since then, problems with the Tacoma's leaking differentials, cheap interior, and lacklustre steering feel have earned it Consumer Reports' "Worst Buy" ranking.

The truck's mechanics are still rock solid, but we're crossing our fingers that Toyota fixes these faults soon.

Big Trio's lack of enthusiasm for the mid-size truck market allowed Toyota Tacoma to emerge as the market leader. Despite its reputation as a dependable pickup, Toyota has issued a huge recall affecting 700,000 Tacomas from 2005 to 2011. Corrosion of the rear leaf springs increased the risk of a breakage and subsequent collision with the fuel tank or another component of the truck.

The paint on older models was of such poor quality that it would peel off like an apple, and they rusted easily. Also, many 2009 Tacoma owners have complained about the radio suddenly turning off. Despite the 2016 Toyota Tacoma being completely overhauled, new issues have arisen. The loud, irritating noise coming from the driver's side door at high speeds is a common complaint among highway travellers. It will also be necessary to solve issues like automatic transmission engagement being delayed when the vehicle is cold and engine vibrations.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yJrf7sRIixk

Conclusion

Some people have trust issues from the get-go. Those in the market for a new pickup truck should investigate the brand's reliability before making a purchase. A workhorse is a bad investment if it refuses to do its job and throws a fit in the middle of the road. Now, the typical age of a car on the road is 11.5. Stopping by the dealer to have a recall issue rectified can interrupt productivity.

In light of the astronomical prices at which new pickup trucks sell, the market for used trucks is booming. Over the years, Silverado has experienced both success and failure. The primary criticism regarding the 2004 and 2005 versions is steering-related problems. Common complaints include an excessive need for engine oil, problems with the anti-lock brake sensors, and an irritating banging noise from the motor. You shouldn't get too close to a 2007 Chevrolet Silverado, especially one with the 5.3L V8 engine.

A quart or more of oil may need to be added every thousand miles, according to some owners. Clunking noises when steering are the most common problem for 2004 and 2005 Silverados. While the F-Series is the best-selling vehicle in America, it is not without its problems. It was the back window's random shattering that caused the greatest trouble. Due to potential fire concerns associated with the pretension belts, more than a million vehicles have been recalled.

Numerous engine problems have been reported in the F-150. The rear window rather than the engine was the most frequent source of trouble. Numerous Ram owners have complained about corrosion problems. It's vital to discuss the difficulties of moving up from second to first position. Consumer Reports rates the new Ram 1500 full-size pickup as having below-average reliability.

J.D. Power rated the powertrain of the 2016 Ram 1500 an average 3. There have been 12 distinct recalls involving 2002-2003 Dodge Ram 1500s. Rust is an issue with both first- and second-generation Tundras. If you're in the market for a large and powerful pickup, go no further than the 2007 Toyota Tundra.

For 2017, Honda revived the Ridgeline, and it lives up to expectations. The jury is yet out on the latest Honda Ridgeline, but we have plenty of information on its predecessors. In colder climates, rust might be a problem, so take precautions. Vehicles with a lot of miles on them should be evaluated for things like axle damage and fluid leaks before purchase. According to Consumer Reports, the Nissan Titan full-size pickup isn't very reliable.

Between 2004 and 2006, when Titan was brand new, it experienced several dependability issues. The Titan does not have a rating in J.D. Power's 2019 Dependability Study. When compared to a regular half-ton truck, the Chevrolet Colorado's smaller size may make it seem like the best alternative. There were many problems with the 2004 and 2005 models. For example, the air conditioning heater only works on high or doesn't work at all.

Recurring issues with the gearbox have been reported in 2005-2008 Nissan Frontier pickup trucks. The radiator was poorly made and is the cause of the problem. When transmission fluid and antifreeze are mixed, irreparable damage occurs. This is a fantastic midsize truck to consider if you enjoy tinkering with transmission swaps. During that time period (2005-2007), the 5.3-liter Vortec V8 produced by GMC was equipped with mild hybrid technology.

In the 2019 J.D. Power Dependability Study, the Sierra 1500 was ranked third overall. The GMC Sierra 2500 HD was recalled in 2011 because of faulty fusible links. For nearly two decades, the Toyota Tacoma has been the best-selling midsize pickup truck. Toyota finally introduced a new model in 2016 to finally replace the ageing one. Consumer Reports ranked the Tacoma as a "Worst Buy" due to issues with its leaking differentials, poor cabin, and numb steering.

Content Summary

  • It's excellent news for people in the market for a new or used pickup truck as most modern pickups are reliable and sturdy enough to last for the average truck owner's lifetime.
  • However, there are drawbacks to purchasing a pre-owned pickup.
  • By researching the most purchased pickups in the United States, we were able to compile a list of the most common difficulties experienced by trucks with over 100,000 miles on the odometer and what to look out for when shopping for a high-mileage pickup.
  • The earlier Silverados, however, share the same problems as their competitors.
  • We'll go over the most common problems, but used Silverados should be approached with caution.
  • GM's dismissal of transmission malfunction as incidental to "regular operations" further contributes to the problem.
  • A 2007 Chevrolet Silverado with a 5.3L V8 is likely not the truck for you.
  • Even while the F-Series is still the best-selling model in the United States, it is not without issues.
  • More than 600,000 automobiles were impacted by a recall of seatback assemblies.
  • More than a million automobiles have been recalled due to a potential fire hazard associated with the pretension belts.
  • Throughout its first couple of years on the market, the F-150 has been plagued by a variety of engine issues, including spark plugs that break off within the head or pop out, excessive engine noise, and stalling.
  • Surprisingly, the most common problem wasn't with the motor.
  • Despite receiving a high score in most categories, the current generation Ram 1500 full-size pickup is predicted to have below-average reliability, earning it a 2 out of 5 from Consumer Reports.
  • Indicative of the seriousness of the problem, Toyota issued a dozen separate recalls for the 2005-2008 Tundra model years.
  • The new truck is based on the same chassis as the Pilot SUV and the Odyssey minivan, therefore the late models were similarly underpowered compared to full-size pickups.
  • The worst years were 2006 through 2008, with 2006 being the worst of those.
  • While the 2007 and 2008 Honda Ridgelines had problems like peeling paint, premature rust, and broken air conditioning, the 2006 Honda Ridgeline had significantly more severe problems.
  • Even though no particular mechanical problems are mentioned, Consumer Reports expects the full-size Nissan Titan will have below-average reliability.
  • The 2017 model's engine cooling, climate control, and body integrity received the lowest scores for reliability.
  • Chevy Colorado, being less massive than a regular half-ton truck, may appear to be the optimal pick for anyone who doesn't want a trailer haulier.
  • To those who don't need a vehicle capable of towing, the Chevrolet Colorado may appear like the greatest option due to its lower size compared to a standard half-ton truck.
  • The 2019 GMC Sierra 1500's predicted reliability is 2 out of 5 stars by Consumer Reports.
  • Since then, problems with the Tacoma's leaking differentials, cheap interior, and lacklustre steering feel have earned it Consumer Reports' "Worst Buy" ranking.
  • Despite its reputation as a dependable pickup, Toyota has issued a huge recall affecting 700,000 Tacomas from 2005 to 2011.
  • Despite the 2016 Toyota Tacoma being completely overhauled, new issues have arisen.
Scroll to Top