What Is Good Mileage for a Used Pickup Truck?

When shopping for a used pickup truck, mileage is a critical factor to consider. A truck’s mileage typically directly impacts its reliability, performance, and overall value. So, how many miles on a truck is good? Well, the answer to this question isn’t straightforward. 

Generally, anything below 50,000 miles is considered the ideal option. However, this rule is not set in stone—factors like the truck’s maintenance history, its engine type (whether it runs on gas or diesel), and how you plan to use it can also influence the truck’s dependability. 

How Many Miles Is Too Many for a Used Truck?

While there is no perfect mileage for used trucks, ideally, you would want to get something below 50,000. Trucks with mileage between 50,000 and 100,000 can also be good options, while anything above 100,000 miles is often considered too high. However, it should be pointed out that a truck’s overall value goes way beyond its odometer reading – its physical condition, upkeep, and maintenance records also matter. 

Trucks are designed for durability, and regular maintenance, like timely oil changes, brake servicing, and transmission repairs, often extends the truck’s life. For instance, a truck with 80,000 miles that was poorly handled and maintained may have more problems than one with 120,000 miles and a spotless service record. Likewise, some well-maintained trucks may even perform reliably past 150,000 – 200,000 miles. 

Nonetheless, when buying a high-mileage truck, you should always carefully evaluate its maintenance and service history before committing. 

How Many Miles Does a Diesel Truck Last?

Diesel trucks are renowned for their longevity and are typically designed to last at least 200,000 miles on average (way longer than their gas-powered counterparts). With proper care, these trucks may even surpass this mark, with many diesel trucks reaching 350,000 miles or more. Some key factors that affect a diesel truck’s lifespan include:

• Regular Maintenance: Frequent oil changes, fuel filter replacements, and other routine maintenance actions are usually the best way to extend a truck’s lifespan.
• Driving Habits: Aggressive driving and excessive idling times can strain the truck’s engine over time and shorten its lifespan. 
• Truck Use: Trucks used for heavy-duty operations typically have shorter lifespans compared to ones used for lighter-duty applications. 

Diesel trucks are durable, making them a popular option when buying a high-mileage truck. However, remember to always prioritize trucks with documented maintenance records. 

Are Trucks with 100,000 Miles Worth Buying?

At this point, you may wonder, “How many miles is too many for a used truck?” Well, the consensus answer is usually “anything above 100,000 miles.” However, mileage alone does not tell the whole story, and the 100,000-mile benchmark doesn’t necessarily signify the end of a truck’s useful life. 

In fact, trucks with a mileage above 100,000 may be worth buying, provided they have been well cared for. Diesel trucks (and some modern, high-quality gas trucks) are built to endure heavy workloads and long distances and often continue performing reliably well past 100,000 miles. 

Here are some key areas to focus on when buying a high-mileage truck:

• Maintenance History: Regular and documented oil changes, fluid flushes, and timely repairs typically indicate a truck was cared for properly. 
• Accident Records: A clean accident history often suggests a lower likelihood of the truck having hidden structural or mechanical issues. 
• Component Replacements: Check for evidence of major parts, like the timing belt or transmission, being replaced at the appropriate intervals.
  

What to Check Before Buying a Used Truck

• Maintenance Records: Check for proof of regular servicing, such as oil changes, brake inspections, and fluid replacements. VIN checkers and similar tools are often useful ways to look up a truck’s maintenance history and gain insight into its full history.
• Engine and Transmission Health: Look for warning signs like unusual noises, oil leaks, rough shifting, and other signs that the truck’s engine and transmission may be in trouble. 
• Tires and Brakes: Inspect the condition of the truck’s tires and brake pads. If these components are worn, it may indicate heavy use or neglect, which could eventually lead to costly repairs after the purchase. 
• Interior and Exterior Wear: Inspect the truck’s overall condition and check for signs of excessive wear and tear, such as cracked seats or rusted panels. These can provide an insight into how it was used and whether it was well cared for. 

Taking the time to assess these aspects and conduct a thorough inspection before purchasing a pickup truck, especially a high-mileage truck, can help you avoid potential issues and make an informed decision.

Trucks with the Best MPG

Fuel efficiency is a key consideration when truck shopping, particularly if you intend to use the truck frequently and/or for long commutes. When buying a high-mileage truck, selecting models known for fuel efficiency can save you money at the pump over the long term. While larger trucks typically prioritize power over mileage, many compact and midsize models deliver excellent fuel economy.

Here are examples of some commonly purchased used pickup trucks known for fuel efficiency:

1. Toyota Tundra: The Tundra is renowned for its reliability and efficiency, making it a popular choice among buyers looking for power, durability, and good mileage at a relatively affordable cost. 
2. Nissan Frontier: The Frontier is known for its rugged build and offers decent mileage without sacrificing performance, making it a good option for buyers seeking a reliable and affordable truck for regular use and the occasional heavy-duty operations.  
3. Ford Ranger: The Ford Ranger is a compact but capable truck that combines rugged toughness with fuel efficiency and low operating costs. 
4. Honda Ridgeline: The Ridgeline’s unique combination of car-like handling with truck functionality makes it a strong option for fuel-conscious buyers.  
5. Hyundai Santa Cruz: The Hyundai Santa Cruz blends the utility of a truck with the comfort and handling of an SUV while still boasting respectable miles per gallon. 

Mileage plays an important role in determining a used pickup truck’s value and reliability. However, even though a high mileage may seem worrying at first, factors like the truck’s maintenance history, use, and engine type may provide deeper insight into its overall condition. In some cases, buying a high-mileage truck can even be a cost-effective way to secure a dependable vehicle, provided you are willing to do your homework (like conducting a thorough inspection) before committing to the purchase.