5 Reliable Used Trucks Under $10k

You’ve got a to-do list that requires the hauling capability of a pickup, but you don’t have a truckload of money to spend. We’ve found five reliable used trucks that you can buy for under $10k.

Big Capability on a Small Budget

If you’ve been shopping for a truck, you know how quickly the price rises once you move up a trim level or two. Depreciation lowers the costs on used trucks, but later models are still pretty pricey.

The good news is you don’t have to reach back to the previous century to find powerful, reliable, and affordable used trucks for sale. Here are our top picks.

1. 2007-2008 Chevrolet Silverado 1500

If you only have the space and budget for one vehicle, make it a Chevy Silverado 1500. The 2007-08 models can haul a big payload, while the roomy crew cab easily fits a family of five, including those bulky kiddie car seats. The 5.3-liter V8 cranks 315 horsepower and was the most fuel-efficient pickup in its class. Depending on mileage, you can pick one up for $8-9k.

2. 2008 Ford F-150

There are good reasons why the Ford F-150 is America’s favorite truck. At the top of the list: it’s just easy to use. Even a 2008 model offers plenty of modern conveniences. And nothing beats the Cargo Management System for securing payloads of any shape and size. For the perfect balance of capability and comfort, look for a spacious SuperCrew in the XLT or Lariat trims for around $8,500-9,500.

3. 2009 Nissan Frontier

With available 4WD and high ground clearance, the Nissan Frontier is ideal if you’re an outdoorsy type and need a truck that can haul your ATVs and a small boat. For maximum towing power and off-road capability, you’ll want the V6 PRO-4X trim. The Frontier is available in a Crew Cab or King Cab model. Both offer a smooth, comfortable ride, but your taller friends might appreciate the extra legroom in the Crew Cab. A 2009 Frontier should come in around $9k.

4. 2011 Chevrolet Colorado

Looking for a used truck for sale that’s a little more modern and a lot more affordable? Put a 2011 Chevy Colorado on your test-drive list. For $6,800-8,500, you can get a beefy 300-horsepower V8 that can pull 6,000 pounds. And not only is it stylish and comfortable, but it also earned top safety scores. It’s versatile, powerful, and cleans up nice when you want to go out for a night on the town.

5. 2010 GMC Canyon

Like its cousin, the Chevy Colorado, the GMC Canyon is a handsome pickup that delivers a lot of convenience and capability for the money. Where a lot of truck makers offer a confusing array of trims, GMC kept it simple with the Canyon, with the base Work Truck, SLE, and SLT trims. If you’re in the market for an inexpensive compact truck, the Canyon is worth a look. A 2010 Crew Cab model should run between $6,500-8,500.

Made for the Long Haul

The pickups on our list are known for their quality and longevity. And for extra peace of mind, you can pull a history report on just about any vehicle. These reports offer a glimpse of a vehicle’s title and maintenance record before you fork over your cash. With a few clicks, it’s easy to find reliable, capable used trucks for sale for less than $10k.