When shopping for a used truck, you’ll often see ones with high mileage. It’s common to find trucks that have crossed 100,000 miles. Many people wonder if these trucks are still worth buying or not.
Trucks are built to handle tough work. They are often used for towing, carrying loads, and long road trips. Because of this, they’re expected to last longer than regular cars. But that doesn’t mean all trucks stay strong.
Some high-mileage trucks continue to run like new with only regular maintenance. These are the models that are well-made and have reliable engines. If taken care of, they can last well past 200,000 miles.
But some trucks start having problems after reaching high mileage. Their engines may weaken, transmissions may fail, or repairs may become too frequent. Buying one of these can turn into a costly mistake.
So, how do you know which trucks are worth buying and which ones to avoid? The answer depends on many things, like how the truck was used, its service history, and the brand’s reputation for reliability.
We’ll also show five trucks that may not be a good idea to buy if they’ve been used a lot. They tend to break down more often and may cost more to repair in the long run.
5 High-Mileage Trucks Still Worth Buying
If you’re planning to buy a used truck, this guide can help you make a smart decision. You’ll learn which models offer the best value and which ones might bring trouble.
Spending a little more time doing research can save you a lot of money later. A good truck should be dependable and ready for the road, no matter how many miles are on it.
1) Toyota Tundra
The Toyota Tundra is one of the most trusted trucks when it comes to lasting a long time. Many owners have driven their Tundras for over 300,000 miles without facing major issues.
Even though it may not have the newest features or the most modern look, the Tundra still stands strong. It is known more for its toughness and dependability than for high-tech upgrades.
One of the main reasons people like the Tundra is that it doesn’t break down often. The engine and transmission are built strong and don’t usually cause serious problems, even after years of use.
Because of its solid performance, used Tundras hold their value well. Many buyers are willing to pay more for one, even with high mileage, because they know it will last.
Regular maintenance is key to keeping the Tundra in great shape. If the truck has been taken care of properly, it can keep going for many years without needing expensive repairs.
Another strong point of the Tundra is its V8 engine, which offers good power and smooth performance. This makes it a good choice for towing and carrying heavy loads without straining the vehicle.
It may not offer the best fuel economy compared to some newer trucks, but the Tundra makes up for it with reliability. Many people are willing to accept higher fuel costs in exchange for fewer repair problems.
Owners often praise the Tundra for how solid and safe it feels on the road. Whether it’s used for work or daily driving, it handles well and stays steady over time.
Overall, the Toyota Tundra is a smart pick for anyone looking to buy a high-mileage truck. It proves that with proper care, a truck can keep working hard long after the miles start to add up.
If you want peace of mind and a truck that won’t let you down, the Tundra is worth serious consideration. It’s a true example of lasting quality in the truck world.
Also read: 5 Pickup Trucks That Age Gracefully and 5 That Rust Prematurely
2) Ford F-150 (2009–2014)
The Ford F-150 from 2009 to 2014 is one of the most popular trucks in the U.S. It has earned a strong reputation for being tough, dependable, and ready to work hard for many miles.
This generation is especially known for its strong V8 engine options. These engines give the truck plenty of power and help it handle heavy loads with ease.
If a high-mileage F-150 from these years has been taken care of, it can still perform very well. Regular oil changes and proper servicing go a long way in keeping this truck in top shape.
One of the biggest advantages of owning a Ford F-150 is how easy it is to find parts. Whether it’s a small fix or a big repair, replacement parts are widely available and usually affordable.
Because of this, repair costs are not as high as they are with some other trucks. This makes the F-150 a good choice for buyers who want a reliable truck without spending too much on upkeep.
The frame and body of this F-150 generation are also built strong. It feels solid on the road, and it holds up well against wear and tear over the years.
Another benefit is the wide variety of trims and options available during these model years. Buyers can choose from basic work trucks to more luxurious models with extra features and comfort.
Fuel economy may not be the best, especially with the V8 models, but many owners accept that trade-off. The power, towing strength, and overall reliability often make up for the extra fuel costs.
People who’ve owned these trucks often report going beyond 200,000 miles without major problems. That shows just how long these trucks can last when properly cared for.
If you’re looking for a high-mileage truck that still has a lot to offer, the 2009–2014 Ford F-150 is a smart pick. It combines strength, value, and long-term reliability in one solid package.
3) Chevrolet Silverado 1500 (2014–2018)
The Chevrolet Silverado 1500 from 2014 to 2018 is a strong and dependable full-size truck. It offers a good mix of durability, power, and ride comfort that appeals to both workers and daily drivers.
This generation is known for its solid drivetrain, which includes a reliable engine and smooth-shifting transmission. These parts are built to last and help the truck stay strong even after many miles.
Many owners of these Silverados have driven over 200,000 miles without facing major problems. That shows how dependable the truck can be when it’s properly maintained over time.
One thing that makes the Silverado a good choice is its comfortable ride. Even after years of use, the suspension remains smooth, making it pleasant to drive on both highways and city roads.
Chevrolet also focused on improving cabin quality during these model years. The interiors feel more refined, with better materials and a quieter ride compared to earlier models.
It’s a good idea to look for a Silverado with a full service history. This tells you the truck was cared for and received regular oil changes, brake checks, and other important maintenance.
However, be careful with trucks that were used for heavy towing. While the Silverado is built to haul, constant towing can put stress on the engine, brakes, and transmission over time.
One helpful feature in these trucks is the available V8 engine, which provides strong towing power. It also handles daily driving smoothly and gives the driver confidence on the road.
Fuel economy isn’t great in V8 models, but it’s acceptable for a truck this size. Many people find the power and comfort are worth the extra fuel cost.
4) Honda Ridgeline (2006–2014)
The Honda Ridgeline from 2006 to 2014 is not your typical pickup truck. It has a different design and build, which makes it stand out from others in its class.
Instead of using a body-on-frame structure like most trucks, the Ridgeline is built more like an SUV. This gives it a smoother ride and better handling on regular roads.
Even though it looks and drives more like an SUV, the Ridgeline can still do light truck jobs. It’s great for carrying tools, light towing, and handling small loads without any trouble.
One of the best things about this truck is its long-lasting performance. With regular maintenance, many owners have seen their Ridgelines go well beyond 200,000 miles.
Honda is known for making reliable vehicles, and the Ridgeline is no different. It doesn’t break down easily and often needs fewer repairs compared to other trucks.
The interior of the Ridgeline is another strong point. It offers a quiet cabin, spacious seats, and a comfortable driving experience that feels more like a car than a truck.
This makes it a great choice for people who use their truck every day for commuting or errands. You get the usefulness of a truck without giving up comfort.
The Ridgeline also includes smart features like an in-bed trunk and a dual-action tailgate. These add convenience and help make the truck even more practical.
Fuel efficiency is better than many full-size trucks, which is good for saving money over time. It’s not built for heavy-duty jobs, but for light use, it’s more than capable.
5) Ram 2500 with Cummins Diesel
The Ram 2500 with a Cummins diesel engine is one of the most trusted heavy-duty trucks available. It has a strong reputation for lasting a long time and handling tough work with ease.
The heart of this truck is the Cummins diesel engine, which is known all over the world. This engine is famous for its strength, reliability, and ability to run for hundreds of thousands of miles.
Many owners report their Ram 2500 trucks running smoothly past 300,000 miles. This kind of durability makes it a top pick for people who depend on their truck every day.
This truck is made for more than just regular driving. It’s built for towing heavy loads, hauling big trailers, and handling hard jobs on worksites and farms.
One of the reasons the Cummins engine is so reliable is its simple and strong design. It doesn’t wear out quickly and can keep running well if it gets regular oil changes and basic maintenance.
The Ram 2500 also has a strong frame and suspension to match the engine’s power. It stays steady under heavy loads and doesn’t wear down fast, even after years of use.
Because of its heavy-duty design, it’s not the smoothest truck for daily city driving. But for people who need power and strength, that trade-off is worth it.
Fuel efficiency is not the best, but that’s expected in a truck made for hard work. What you get in return is serious towing strength and long-term dependability.
Parts for these trucks are widely available, and there’s a large community of owners who share tips and solutions. That makes owning and maintaining one much easier.
If you want a high-mileage truck that can still pull its weight, the Ram 2500 with a Cummins diesel engine is a smart choice. It’s a truck built for the long haul and trusted by drivers everywhere.
Also read: 5 Reliable Old Trucks and 5 That Are Best Left Alone
5 High-Mileage Trucks to Avoid
Not all trucks are built to go the distance. While some high-mileage workhorses earn their keep well past 200,000 miles, others turn into money pits long before that. If you’re shopping used and thinking mileage tells the whole story, think again.
In this article, we break down five high-mileage trucks you’re better off avoiding—because reliability, repair costs, and performance all matter when the odometer keeps climbing.
1) Nissan Titan (2004–2015)
The Nissan Titan from 2004 to 2015 may look tough on the outside, but it has some serious problems as it ages. Many owners report mechanical troubles once the truck goes past 100,000 miles.
One of the biggest issues with this truck is the transmission. The gears may slip, shift roughly, or stop working altogether, which can lead to expensive repairs.
Another common problem is with the differential, which helps control the rear wheels. These parts wear out over time and often fail earlier than expected in the Titan.
When both the transmission and differential start to break down, it becomes difficult to drive the truck safely. These repairs can cost a lot of money and may not be worth it in an older truck.
Even though high-mileage Titans may come with a lower price tag, they often end up costing more in the long run. Frequent repairs can quickly add up and make ownership stressful.
Many drivers also say the interior of the older Titan models wears out faster than other trucks. Things like seat fabrics, dashboard plastics, and electronic features may not age well over time.
Fuel economy is another weak point in this generation of the Titan. The truck uses more gas than other trucks in its class, which increases running costs further.
The engine itself isn’t as refined or long-lasting as those found in other full-size trucks. While some units may last longer with perfect care, they’re not known for high-mileage durability.
Because of all these problems, the resale value of the Titan is lower than its competitors. That’s another sign that it doesn’t hold up as well as other full-size trucks.
If you find a high-mileage Nissan Titan, it’s best to be very careful. It may be better to look at more reliable trucks that are known to last longer and give fewer problems.
2) Ford F-150 (2004–2008)
The Ford F-150 from 2004 to 2008 may seem like a good deal at first glance. It has a strong look and a well-known name, which can attract many used truck buyers.
However, this generation is known for having serious problems with its engine, especially over time. One common issue is with the spark plugs, which are harder to remove than in most trucks.
In many cases, the spark plugs can break off inside the engine when mechanics try to take them out. This makes a simple job turn into a costly repair, often requiring extra tools or engine work.
As the truck ages and gains mileage, engine performance may start to drop. Misfires, rough idling, or hard starts are common signs of the spark plug issue or deeper engine trouble.
The 5.4-liter V8 engine used in these years is especially known for these types of problems. While it was powerful when new, it doesn’t always hold up well with high mileage.
Many owners report having to replace timing components earlier than expected. These repairs are often expensive and may not be worth it for an older, high-mileage truck.
Even though the truck may still look clean on the outside, the real trouble lies under the hood. A shiny exterior doesn’t guarantee a healthy engine, especially with this generation of the F-150.
If you’re thinking about buying one of these trucks with over 100,000 miles, it’s important to check its repair history. Without proof of regular maintenance and engine work, the risks are high.
Fuel efficiency is also below average for this model, which adds to the long-term cost of owning one. Between high fuel use and costly repairs, the total expense can be much more than expected.
Because of all these concerns, the 2004–2008 Ford F-150 is not the best choice for a high-mileage truck. There are better, more reliable options out there that offer peace of mind and fewer problems.
3) Dodge Ram 1500 (2002–2008)
The Dodge Ram 1500 from 2002 to 2008 may seem appealing because of its bold look and strong engine options. But as these trucks age, serious problems often begin to appear, especially after 150,000 miles.
One of the biggest concerns with this generation is the transmission. Many owners report that the transmission fails earlier than expected, leading to expensive repairs or complete replacements.
These problems are more common when the truck hasn’t been well-maintained. Skipping basic care like fluid changes or letting small issues go unfixed can make the transmission wear out even faster.
Rust is another major issue with older Ram 1500 models. It tends to show up around the wheel wells, undercarriage, and even on the frame, which weakens the truck’s structure.
In some cases, rust can get so bad that parts of the body start falling apart. This not only looks bad but also lowers safety and makes the truck harder to sell later on.
While the engines in some of these Rams can be strong, the other parts of the truck may not age as well. Suspension problems, brake wear, and electrical issues can become more frequent with high mileage.
Fuel economy is also not a strong point in these older models. With rising fuel prices, driving one every day can get expensive over time.
Some owners have tried to fix up their Rams with aftermarket parts, but that can be hit or miss. If not done right, these fixes can lead to more trouble and even void resale value.
Even though you might find a used Dodge Ram 1500 at a low price, the cost of repairs can add up quickly. What seems like a deal at first can turn into a burden later.
For buyers looking at high-mileage trucks, it’s usually better to avoid this generation of the Ram 1500. There are more reliable options out there that will save time, money, and stress in the long run.
4) Chevrolet Colorado (2004–2012)
The Chevrolet Colorado from 2004 to 2012 might look like a good deal at first. It’s often priced lower than other trucks in the used market, especially those with higher mileage.
However, once the truck crosses 100,000 miles, problems tend to show up more often. Many owners report ongoing issues that affect both performance and comfort.
Engine trouble is one of the most common complaints with this generation of Colorado. Some models experience rough idling, stalling, or even complete engine failure as they age.
The suspension system is another weak point, especially after years of use. Worn-out parts can lead to a bumpy ride and steering that doesn’t feel safe or smooth.
Electronics can also be a source of frustration in older Coloradans. Things like power windows, locks, gauges, and dashboard lights may stop working properly without warning.
These small issues may not seem serious at first, but can be hard to fix and expensive over time. They also lower the truck’s resale value and can make everyday driving less enjoyable.
If the truck is not maintained regularly, these problems often appear sooner and get worse quickly. A poorly serviced Colorado is likely to break down more often after hitting high mileage.
While Colorado offers good fuel efficiency for a truck, that alone isn’t enough to make it a smart choice. The cost of repairs can easily cancel out any savings from gas.
Some owners have had better luck by keeping up with all maintenance and fixing small problems early. But without knowing the full history, buying a high-mileage model is a risky move.
Because of the engine, suspension, and electronic issues, this generation of the Chevrolet Colorado is not a top choice for high-mileage buyers. There are better, longer-lasting trucks available for the same price range.
Also read: 5 Trucks With the Best Cold Weather Reliability and 5 That Freeze Up Fast
5) GMC Canyon (First Generation)
The first-generation GMC Canyon, like its sibling the Chevrolet Colorado, has several issues that make it a risky buy. While it may be affordable, it doesn’t hold up well once it reaches higher mileage.
One of the biggest concerns with these trucks is their overall durability. They are not built to last as long as some other pickup trucks, and problems often start after hitting around 100,000 miles.
These trucks are known for frequent breakdowns, which can be costly and frustrating for owners. Common issues include engine failure, transmission problems, and electrical faults that can make the truck unreliable over time.
The suspension system in the first-gen Canyon also tends to wear out quickly. This can lead to a rough ride and can affect handling, making it harder to drive smoothly on different types of roads.
The electronics in the Canyon are another weak spot, just like the Colorado. Components such as power windows, air conditioning, and dashboard displays often fail as the truck ages, which can make driving less comfortable.
Though the Canyon is generally cheaper than some other trucks, the costs of frequent repairs can add up fast. These unexpected expenses might make the truck a poor long-term investment.
If the Canyon hasn’t been maintained properly, these problems will likely show up much sooner. Regular care can help extend the life of the truck, but it won’t eliminate the underlying weaknesses in its design.
For buyers looking at high-mileage trucks, the first-gen GMC Canyon is not a top choice. The constant repairs and breakdowns can quickly turn an affordable truck into an expensive burden.
In short, while the Canyon may seem like a budget-friendly option, it’s not the best pick for long-term reliability. It’s better to consider other trucks that have a stronger reputation for lasting longer without as many problems.
