In today’s competitive pickup market, driveline durability and long-term reliability are paramount. While some trucks have earned a reputation for bulletproof construction and minimal complaints, others continue to disappoint with frequent recalls and underwhelming owner experiences.
This review compares ten of the most notable 2023–2025 model year pickups, separating those with outstanding driveline durability from those plagued by issues.
Drawing on data from J.D. Power, NHTSA complaints, and consumer scores, this summary will help you distinguish which trucks are true workhorses—and which may spend more time in the shop than on the road.
5 Trucks With Indestructible Drivelines
1. 2023 Jeep Gladiator
The 2023 Jeep Gladiator demonstrates significant improvements in reliability compared to previous years. It boasts a solid J.D. Power score of 87 and just four recalls with minimal NHTSA complaints—only 0.38 per 1,000 units sold.
Jeep’s long-awaited return to pickups has clearly matured, offering a dependable driveline backed by its rugged 4×4 heritage. Although a few users reported electrical and fuel system issues, no major powertrain failures were flagged.
With no open investigations and steadily improving customer satisfaction, the Gladiator shows it can deliver both off-road prowess and durable drivetrain performance with greater assurance than ever before.
2. 2023/2024 Ford Ranger
The Ford Ranger has earned its place among the most reliable midsize trucks on the market. The 2024 model boasts a perfect 0.00 complaints per 1,000 units sold and only one recall involving faulty power windows.
Meanwhile, the 2023 model, with a similar J.D. Power reliability score of 87, has faced two recalls but nothing indicating core driveline failures. Issues like mislabeling and loose lug nuts don’t impact its performance or durability.
Known for its efficient EcoBoost engine and solid rear differential setup, the Ranger remains a reliable, low-maintenance companion that keeps its driveline intact even under tough usage.
3. 2024/2023 Nissan Titan
Both the 2023 and 2024 Nissan Titan models show exceptional consistency in driveline reliability. With a J.D. Power score of 88 and relatively few NHTSA complaints (0.26 and 0.37 per 1,000 units), the Titan’s powertrain has proven itself over time.
The truck’s 5.6L Endurance V8 has a reputation for being nearly indestructible, and despite recalls related to tires, airbags, and the transmission, there’s little evidence of widespread driveline failure.
While Nissan plans to phase out the Titan in 2025, its final years are showing it to be a dependable full-size truck that can confidently handle heavy-duty work.
4. 2023/2024 Chevrolet Silverado 2500HD
The Silverado 2500HD stands tall with a J.D. Power score of 88, confirming its heavy-duty driveline earns respect. The 2023 model had only one recall, while the 2024 had two—neither of which directly involved the core driveline.
Despite 47 complaints for 2024, they mostly relate to electrical and braking systems, not engine or transmission faults. Its strong V8 and optional Duramax diesel offer long-term durability and high towing capacity.
As the backbone of Chevrolet’s heavy-duty lineup, the 2500HD consistently delivers strength and endurance, placing it among the top-performing trucks when it comes to reliable driveline performance.
5. 2019 Nissan Frontier
The 2019 Nissan Frontier, though now a previous-generation model, has aged like fine wine when it comes to reliability. With only one recall and a J.D. Power reliability score of 87, it has the second-lowest complaint rate (0.23 per 1,000 units) among trucks listed.
Its simple, proven 4.0L V6 and five-speed automatic transmission contribute to its bulletproof reputation. Unlike newer, more complex models, the Frontier’s old-school mechanical simplicity gives it fewer failure points.
It may lack modern tech, but its dependable driveline continues to attract buyers looking for a no-nonsense workhorse that can endure years of rugged service.
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5 Trucks With Constant Failures
1. Rivian R1T
Though innovative and performance-packed, the Rivian R1T is not built for those prioritizing reliability. With a disappointing J.D. Power score of 69 and a massive eight recalls in its debut year, the truck has faced various issues, including powertrain faults and electronic failures.
Consumer Reports rates it poorly with a predicted reliability of just 1 out of 5. While Rivian’s quad-motor setup is groundbreaking, it’s also unproven and prone to bugs. Despite its high price and impressive range, the R1T struggles with consistency and durability, making it a gamble for buyers who need a truly reliable electric truck.
2. Chevrolet Silverado 1500 and GMC Sierra 1500
Despite their popularity, the 2024 Silverado 1500 and Sierra 1500 are plagued by significant driveline issues. These models were affected by a massive recall involving 600,000 trucks due to crankshaft and connecting rod manufacturing defects in L87 V8 engines. J.D. Power scores hover around 84–83, and Consumer Reports gives them just 2 out of 5 in predicted reliability.
Despite high owner scores on Cars.com, the mechanical concerns cannot be ignored. GM’s continued use of turbocharged four-cylinder engines in half-ton trucks adds to the worry for buyers expecting durable powertrains in their full-size pickups.
3. Ford F-150 (Including PowerBoost Hybrid)
The Ford F-150 remains a best-seller, but that popularity hasn’t translated to stellar reliability. J.D. Power gives it a modest 78 score, while Consumer Reports ranks its PowerBoost hybrid variant at just 1 out of 5 for reliability. The 2024 F-150 has had an alarming 22 recalls, ranging from electrical faults to engine and transmission problems.
While the hybrid system offers solid fuel economy, it adds complexity and has shown a poor track record so far. Even traditional EcoBoost variants have seen complaints. Despite its reputation, the F-150 struggles to live up to expectations in driveline longevity.
4. Chevrolet Colorado and GMC Canyon (2023 Model Year)
The redesigned 2023 Chevrolet Colorado and GMC Canyon introduced improved capabilities but stumbled with reliability. They each had three recalls involving vital components such as seat bolts and hub bolts.
Consumer Reports gave both trucks a dismal predicted reliability rating of 1 out of 5. While Cars.com owner reviews seem optimistic, the early recall count and lack of a J.D. Power reliability score raise red flags.
Their shared turbo-four engine and new platform haven’t had enough real-world testing to guarantee durability, placing these midsize twins firmly in the “watch with caution” category until they prove themselves over time.
5. Chevrolet Silverado EV and GMC Sierra EV
While promising cutting-edge range and power, the Silverado EV and Sierra EV are still early in their lifecycle and marred by recall concerns. The Silverado EV had four recalls in its debut year, while the Sierra EV had three. Built on the BT1 platform shared with the Hummer EV, these trucks face the same early-adoption reliability woes.
Though Cars.com reviews are glowing, neither model received a J.D. Power reliability rating yet, and Consumer Reports offers only a 2 out of 5 score. These futuristic trucks offer excitement, but until their complex electric drivetrains are proven, they’re risky purchases.
As trucks become more advanced, the gap between reliable and problematic models widens. On one hand, stalwarts like the Nissan Frontier, Ford Ranger, and Silverado 2500HD continue to uphold reputations for rock-solid drivelines.
On the other, newer and more complex models like the Rivian R1T and Ford F-150 hybrid expose the growing pains of innovation. Buyers looking for long-term dependability should favor proven platforms and powertrains.
Meanwhile, those seeking bleeding-edge performance or EV capability should weigh the trade-offs carefully. In the end, reliability still reigns supreme for work trucks—and knowing what to avoid can save thousands in the long haul.
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