Used Trucks for Sale in Jonesboro, AR - Autotrader (2024)

FAQs

What mileage should I buy a used truck? ›

So, how many miles is too many miles for a used truck? Consider trucks under 100,000 miles for gas engines and 200,000 for diesel. Ideally, aim for under 60,000 miles to minimize maintenance concerns. Always check the truck's overall condition and maintenance history for the best value.

Pick up a bargain before it's too late…

The value of American pick-up trucks from the 1960s and the 1970s has skyrocketed in recent years – and with good reason. Enthusiasts appreciate their simple ruggedness and timeless usability; the ability to haul, tow or go camping is just as important in 2019 as it was in 1969.

Used trucks are expensive due to their high demand, versatility, durability, and the added value of being certified.

The 100,000-mile mark is often cited as the point at which you should no longer consider purchasing a used truck. But there are plenty of trucks that'll last for a lot longer than this. In fact, it isn't uncommon at all for well-maintained trucks to last between 200,000 and 300,000 miles these days.

Reliability: Trucks are known for their durability and long lifespan. Opting for a used truck near you that is still relatively young, such as 2 to 5 years old, can provide a balance between cost savings and a vehicle that is likely to have plenty of reliable years ahead.

“I would lean more toward newer vehicles, even if they have more miles,” says Jennifer Stockburger, director of operations at Consumer Reports' Auto Test Center. “And the reason I say that is because there have been so many advances in terms of safety and fuel economy.

The 1967-1972 Chevrolet C/K pickup is one of the most reliable classic trucks you can drive. They're durable and reliable enough to be your everyday vehicle — even 50 years after Chevy manufactured them. Plus, they're easy to drive and more comfortable than other early-stage pickups.

In 2023, more than 700,000 customers chose a new Ford F-Series truck, making it the best-selling truck in the United States for the 47th consecutive year¹.

Which truck is most expensive to maintain? ›

Ram's full-size heavy-duty pickup trucks are genuine workhorses for towing and hauling. They also have the highest maintenance costs of any vehicle we studied over ten years, including several luxury models, like the Porsche Cayenne or the BMW X6.

Even though Ford has been one of the top-selling trucks for numerous years, the Triton motor found in the early 2000s was a huge mistake. Along with those trucks, the 2008 Ford F-250 and F-350 only had a reliability rating of 6 out of 100, making them the most unreliable trucks on the road.

Although there's no magic number to look for in the mileage on a pre-owned truck, you'll typically want to look for one with a gasoline engine that has less than 100,000 miles or one with a diesel engine with less than 200,000 miles.

If you're looking to get top dollar for your used vehicle, it's definitely a good idea to check CarMax out. The company has an A+ rating from the BBB and has been in business since 1993.

60,000-70,000 miles: Most manufacturers' powertrain warranties expire in that range, and the second major maintenance is scheduled to occur. Selling before reaching those benchmarks will get you a better price for your car than selling afterward.

Maintenance Is Important to Longevity

That said, while most gas engines are intended to last at least 200,000 miles on average, a diesel truck that is well-maintained can potentially last 350,000 to 500,000 miles.

Trucks Have More Longevity Today

This means that when you purchase a modern truck, you can expect it to last for at least 10 years and 100,000 miles. With proper maintenance, you can extend those marks significantly, with the average truck being nearly twice as likely to last for 200,000 miles as the average vehicle.

There's no rule to how many miles on a used car is too much, but by attempting to stick to the 12,000 miles per year rule is a great place to start. Find out how old the car is, multiple the number of years by 12,000, and if the number on the odometer is significantly higher than that, some concern might be warranted.