When hunting for a used truck, it’s tough to tell the gems from the duds, as many popular models hide serious mechanical problems behind fancy ads, turning a dream purchase into a costly nightmare.
The allure of a low price or a trusted brand name can often mislead consumers. Without diligent research, minor problems can escalate into expensive repairs and unforeseen safety hazards. This diminishes the truck’s long-term value and compromises peace of mind. This comprehensive guide spotlights highly advertised used trucks notorious for their critical flaws. Our objective is to empower you to make informed decisions, ensuring you steer clear of these potential money pits.
1. **The 2018 Ford F-150: A Transmission Trouble Trap**The 2018 Ford F-150, a common sight, carries a stark warning from mechanic Thomasz Marzukiewicz. Despite its popularity, this model year is notorious for serious operational defects. Its attractive exterior often conceals fundamental engineering shortcomings, leading to significant owner dissatisfaction. Buyers must exercise extreme caution.
A core issue for the 2018 F-150 is its problematic transmission system. Owners extensively report “serious transmission problems,” including “transmission failure” and “rough downshifting.” These are not minor; such critical mechanical failures severely compromise the truck’s drivability and impact its overall safety.
Compounding these transmission woes are alarming reports of “early engine stall-outs and failure.” An engine that unpredictably ceases operation poses a grave safety risk. Financial repercussions from transmission issues are substantial, requiring “expensive” repairs. These combined failures make the 2018 Ford F-150 a highly regrettable investment.
Car Model Information: 2024 Ford F-150 XLT
Name: Ford F-Series
Caption: 2022 Ford F-150 Lariat Luxury
Manufacturer: Ford Motor Company
Aka: Ford Lobo (Mexico, 1992–present)
Production: 1948–present
Class: Pickup truck#Full-size pickup truck
Layout: Front-engine, rear-wheel-drive layout,rear-wheel drive
Predecessor: 1941 Ford
Categories: All-wheel-drive vehicles, All Wikipedia articles written in American English, All articles that may contain original research, All articles with unsourced statements, Articles that may contain original research from September 2020
Summary: The Ford F-Series is a series of light-duty trucks marketed and manufactured by the Ford Motor Company since model year 1948 as a range of full-sized pickup trucks — positioned between Ford’s Ranger and Super Duty pickup trucks. Alongside the F-150 (introduced in 1975), the F-Series also includes the Super Duty series (introduced in 1999), which includes the heavier-duty F-250 through F-450 pickups, F-450/F-550 chassis cabs, and F-600/F-650/F-750 Class 6–8 commercial trucks.
Get more information about: Ford F-Series
Buying a high-performing used car >>>
Brand: Ford Model: F-150
Price: $40,897 Mileage: 45,515 mi.
2. **The 2019 Chevrolet Silverado 1500: Dynamic Fuel Management and Lifter Letdowns**The 2019 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 also requires extreme caution. While its bold design may attract, this specific model year is plagued by engineering choices consistently troublesome for owners. Its innovative features, intended for efficiency, paradoxically introduced new reliability issues.
A primary concern is the 2019 Silverado’s dynamic fuel management system. “Designed to increase fuel efficiency,” drivers commonly report it “often misfires.” This failure negates economic benefits and causes erratic engine performance. Further, “reports of lifter failures,” with replacement costs “starting in the thousands,” erode value.
Beyond major mechanical failures, owners often complain about cheap interior materials and frustrating tech glitches, which, while not as critical as engine failure, severely impact the driving experience and can lead to buyer’s remorse.
Car Model Information: 2022 Volkswagen Tiguan 2.0T SE
Name: Chevrolet Silverado/GMC Sierra
Caption: 2022 Silverado 2500HD High Country
Manufacturer: General Motors
Aka: unbulleted list
Production: 1998–present
Assembly: unbulleted list
Class: unbulleted list
BodyStyle: unbulleted list
Layout: unbulleted list
Predecessor: unbulleted list
Categories: 2000s cars, 2010s cars, 2020s cars, All-wheel-drive vehicles, All Wikipedia articles written in American English
Summary: The Chevrolet Silverado is a range of trucks manufactured by General Motors under the Chevrolet brand. Introduced for the 1999 model year, the Silverado is the successor to the long-running Chevrolet C/K model line. Taking its name from the top trim level from the Chevrolet C/K series, the Silverado is offered as a series of full-size pickup trucks, chassis cab trucks, and medium-duty trucks. The fourth generation of the model line was introduced for the 2019 model year.
The Chevrolet Silverado shares mechanical commonality with the identically related GMC Sierra; GMC ended the use of the C/K nomenclature a model generation prior to Chevrolet. In Mexico, high-trim level versions of the Silverado use the Chevrolet Cheyenne name (not to be confused with the 2003 concept). Competing against the Ford F-Series, Ram pickup, Toyota Tundra, and Nissan Titan, the Silverado is among the best-selling vehicles in the United States, having sold over 12 million trucks since its introduction in 1998 as a 1999 model year.
Get more information about: Chevrolet Silverado
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Brand: Chevrolet Model: Silverado 1500
Price: $19,595 Mileage: 63,937 mi.
3.The 2020 Nissan Titan might catch your eye with its lower price, but mechanics warn that this initial saving is often wiped out by consistently poor dependability scores, hinting at long-term reliability issues.
A central issue for the 2020 Nissan Titan is its “nine-speed automatic transmission.” This system has a documented history of “shifting problems,” frequently described as “very inconsistent.” Such erratic behavior makes the Titan “uncomfortable” to drive and can lead to premature drivetrain wear.
Moreover, for those needing a heavy-duty truck, the 2020 Nissan Titan falls short. It has “lower towing and payload capacity than its rivals.” Marzukiewicz states, “it’s not a good option for drivers who need a serious workhorse,” citing its limited capabilities.
Car Model Information: 2017 Nissan Titan Platinum Reserve
Name: Nissan Titan
Manufacturer: Nissan
Production: September 2003 – November 2024
ModelYears: 2004–2024
Assembly: Canton, Mississippi
Class: Pickup_truck#Full-size_pickup_truck
BodyStyle: 2-door pickup truck,4-door pickup truck
Layout: Front-engine, rear-wheel-drive layout
Platform: Nissan F-Alpha
Caption: 2021 Nissan Titan Crew Cab PRO-4X (Canada)
Categories: 2010s cars, 2020s cars, All-wheel-drive vehicles, All articles with unsourced statements, Articles with short description
Summary: The Nissan Titan was a full-size pickup truck manufactured in the United States for the North American market by Nissan, produced for the 2004–2024 model years.
Get more information about: Nissan Titan
Buying a high-performing used car >>>
Brand: Nissan Model: Titan
Price: $26,995 Mileage: 64,099 mi.
4. **The 2006 Ford F-150: A Recall Record Breaker**The Ford F-150, an American icon, has not always been synonymous with unwavering reliability; the 2006 model year stands out as particularly troubled. For consumers seeking a dependable used truck, this specific F-Series iteration poses significant risks due to its alarming number of manufacturing defects.
The 2006 Ford F-150 is notorious for its extensive safety and performance issues, having been “recalled 14 times.” This exceptionally high frequency of recalls is a powerful indicator of fundamental design and manufacturing flaws across critical vehicle systems.
These numerous recalls covered essential safety and operational components, ranging “from brake warnings to airbags to wiper motor malfunctions.” Such critical defects pose immediate safety hazards, with faulty airbags compromising occupant protection and wiper issues impairing crucial visibility.
Car Model Information: 2021 Ford F-150 XL
Name: Ford F-Series
Caption: 2022 Ford F-150 Lariat Luxury
Manufacturer: Ford Motor Company
Aka: Ford Lobo (Mexico, 1992–present)
Production: 1948–present
Class: Pickup truck#Full-size pickup truck
Layout: Front-engine, rear-wheel-drive layout,rear-wheel drive
Predecessor: 1941 Ford
Categories: All-wheel-drive vehicles, All Wikipedia articles written in American English, All articles that may contain original research, All articles with unsourced statements, Articles that may contain original research from September 2020
Summary: The Ford F-Series is a series of light-duty trucks marketed and manufactured by the Ford Motor Company since model year 1948 as a range of full-sized pickup trucks — positioned between Ford’s Ranger and Super Duty pickup trucks. Alongside the F-150 (introduced in 1975), the F-Series also includes the Super Duty series (introduced in 1999), which includes the heavier-duty F-250 through F-450 pickups, F-450/F-550 chassis cabs, and F-600/F-650/F-750 Class 6–8 commercial trucks.
Get more information about: Ford F-Series
Buying a high-performing used car >>>
Brand: Ford Model: F-150
Price: $25,099 Mileage: 48,647 mi.
5. **The 2008 Nissan Frontier: An Airbag and Fuel Tank Liability**When considering a used truck, assessing a manufacturer’s historical expertise in the segment is wise. Nissan has a varied history with dedicated pickups, and the 2008 Frontier exemplifies this. It exhibits significant flaws demanding careful consideration from buyers.
Serious fuel tank problems, including leaks and delivery issues, plague the 2008 Nissan Frontier, posing environmental risks, potential fire hazards, and leading to costly breakdowns and repairs.
Even more alarming are “serious airbag concerns” reported for this model. Airbags are vital safety features; when compromised, the vehicle’s fundamental safety promise is broken. The issues were so severe they directly “led to recalls,” indicating widespread, serious defects.
Car Model Information: 2023 Nissan Frontier SV
Categories: All set index articles, Articles with short description, Nissan vehicles, Set index articles on cars, Short description is different from Wikidata
Summary: The Nissan Frontier is a nameplate used on three different pickup truck models by Nissan:
Nissan Frontier (international), an alternative nameplate for the NP300/Navara on some markets
Nissan Frontier (North America), a rebadged NP300/Navara from 1997 to 2021, then became a separate model since 2021
Nissan Frontier Pro, a rebadged Dongfeng Z9 PHEV that will be available from 2025.
Get more information about: Nissan Frontier
Buying a high-performing used car >>>
Brand: Nissan Model: Frontier
Price: $29,897 Mileage: 40,035 mi.
6. **The 2014 Chevrolet Silverado 1500: A Discrepancy Between Ratings and Reality**The 2014 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 initially earned “initial high safety ratings,” suggesting a secure vehicle. However, real-world owner experience often contradicted these assessments. This reveals a significant disparity between advertised safety and actual long-term reliability.
Despite early positive ratings, the 2014 Silverado 1500 has seen “thousands of consumer complaints” and “over 20 safety recalls.” This volume of dissatisfaction and corrective actions paints a dramatically different picture, challenging any perception of a safe or reliable vehicle.
Documented severe problems include “defects in seatbelts, over-braking, and steering loss.” Each is a critical safety failure: faulty seatbelts compromise restraint, “over-braking” destabilizes the vehicle, and “steering loss” is exceptionally hazardous, directly threatening control.
Car Model Information: 2024 Honda Civic Sport
Name: Chevrolet Silverado/GMC Sierra
Caption: 2022 Silverado 2500HD High Country
Manufacturer: General Motors
Aka: unbulleted list
Production: 1998–present
Assembly: unbulleted list
Class: unbulleted list
BodyStyle: unbulleted list
Layout: unbulleted list
Predecessor: unbulleted list
Categories: 2000s cars, 2010s cars, 2020s cars, All-wheel-drive vehicles, All Wikipedia articles written in American English
Summary: The Chevrolet Silverado is a range of trucks manufactured by General Motors under the Chevrolet brand. Introduced for the 1999 model year, the Silverado is the successor to the long-running Chevrolet C/K model line. Taking its name from the top trim level from the Chevrolet C/K series, the Silverado is offered as a series of full-size pickup trucks, chassis cab trucks, and medium-duty trucks. The fourth generation of the model line was introduced for the 2019 model year.
The Chevrolet Silverado shares mechanical commonality with the identically related GMC Sierra; GMC ended the use of the C/K nomenclature a model generation prior to Chevrolet. In Mexico, high-trim level versions of the Silverado use the Chevrolet Cheyenne name (not to be confused with the 2003 concept). Competing against the Ford F-Series, Ram pickup, Toyota Tundra, and Nissan Titan, the Silverado is among the best-selling vehicles in the United States, having sold over 12 million trucks since its introduction in 1998 as a 1999 model year.
Get more information about: Chevrolet Silverado
Buying a high-performing used car >>>
Brand: Chevrolet Model: Silverado 1500
Price: $27,891 Mileage: 21,809 mi.
7. **The 2016 Toyota Tacoma: An Unexpected Blip in a Reliable Lineage**Toyota boasts an enviable reputation for unwavering reliability, frequently ranking “at the #1 and #2 spot” among automotive brands globally. This leads consumers to implicitly trust Toyota vehicles. However, even esteemed manufacturers can produce models that deviate.
The 2016 Tacoma, despite Toyota’s reputation, was unfortunately impacted by “numerous recalls.” These widespread recalls signal significant manufacturing or design oversights for this model year, challenging Toyota’s nearly infallible image of quality among enthusiasts.
Specific problems in these recalls highlight “design flaws in the hood scoop and loose nuts and bolts.” While a hood scoop flaw might seem minor, it can indicate broader quality control issues. More critically, “loose nuts and bolts” can lead to component detachment.
Picking the right used truck goes beyond just looks; you need to understand its mechanical history and reliability, and this guide will reveal hidden flaws in popular models that advertising doesn’t tell you about, helping you avoid expensive and dangerous mistakes.
Let’s delve deeper into eight more models that often disappoint. This section will uncover issues ranging from problematic airbags and steering to substandard build quality and electrical system woes. By thoroughly evaluating these potential pitfalls, you can safeguard your investment and ensure the vehicle you choose is a genuine asset, not a hidden liability.
Car Model Information: 2023 Toyota Tacoma
Name: Toyota Tacoma
Caption: 2020 Toyota Tacoma TRD Off-Road
Manufacturer: Toyota
Production: January 1995 – present
ModelYears: 1995–present
Class: unbulleted list
Layout: Front-engine, rear-wheel-drive layout
Predecessor: Toyota Hilux (N80)
Categories: 2000s cars, 2010s cars, 2020s cars, All-wheel-drive vehicles, All Wikipedia articles written in American English
Summary: The Toyota Tacoma is a pickup truck manufactured by Japanese automobile manufacturer Toyota since 1995. The first-generation Tacoma (model years 1995 through 2004) was classified as a compact pickup; subsequent models are classified as mid-sized pickups. The Tacoma was Motor Trend’s Truck of the Year for 2005.
As of 2015, the Tacoma was sold in the United States, Canada, Mexico, Costa Rica, Bolivia, Bermuda, and the French overseas collectivity of New Caledonia. Most markets across the world receive the Toyota Hilux in lieu of the Tacoma.
The name “Tacoma” was derived from the Coast Salish peoples’ name for Mount Rainier in the U.S. state of Washington.
Get more information about: Toyota Tacoma
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Brand: Toyota Model: Tacoma
Price: $39,497 Mileage: 45,250 mi.
8.The 2006 Dodge Ram 1500 was a tough year for this model, with over a thousand owner complaints signaling widespread issues that make it a risky purchase for any buyer.
Among the primary concerns for the 2006 Dodge Ram 1500 were persistent problems with its air conditioning and heating systems. These are not just minor inconveniences; fully functioning climate control is essential for comfort and safety in diverse weather conditions, and failures here can be both frustrating and expensive to rectify.
Adding to comfort concerns, documented engine problems are a major red flag for any vehicle, potentially causing breakdowns, expensive fixes, and ultimately reducing the truck’s dependability and lifespan.
Furthermore, this model year was widely reported to “shake while braking.” This isn’t merely a discomfort; it’s a critical safety issue indicating potential problems with the braking system, suspension, or other vital components. Such a defect can severely impair driving control and increase accident risk.
Car Model Information: 2024 Honda Civic Sport
Name: Dodge Ram / Ram pickup
Caption: 2017 Ram 1500 Express
Manufacturer: Dodge
ModelYears: 1981–present
Production: October 1980 – present
Class: Pickup truck#Full-size pickup truck,Pickup truck#Heavy-duty pickup truck
Layout: Front-engine, rear-wheel-drive layout,rear-wheel drive
Predecessor: Dodge D series
Categories: 1990s cars, 2000s cars, 2010s cars, 2020s cars, All-wheel-drive vehicles
Summary: The Ram pickup (marketed as the Dodge Ram until 2010 when Ram Trucks was spun-off from Dodge) is a full-size pickup truck manufactured by Stellantis North America (formerly Chrysler Group LLC and FCA US LLC) and marketed from 2010 onwards under the Ram Trucks brand. The current fifth-generation Ram debuted at the 2018 North American International Auto Show in Detroit, Michigan, in January of that year.
Previously, Ram was part of the Dodge line of light trucks. The Ram name was introduced in October 1980 for model year 1981, when the Dodge D series pickup trucks and B series vans were rebranded, though the company had used a ram’s-head hood ornament on some trucks as early as 1933.
Ram trucks have been named Motor Trend magazine’s Truck of the Year eight times; the second-generation Ram won the award in 1994, the third-generation Ram heavy-duty won the award in 2003, the fourth-generation Ram Heavy Duty won in 2010 and the fourth-generation Ram 1500 won in 2013 and 2014, and the current fifth-generation Ram pickup became the first truck in history to win the award four times, winning in 2019, 2020, 2021 and most recently, 2025.
Get more information about: Ram pickup
Buying a high-performing used car >>>
Brand: Dodge Model: Ram 1500
Price: $27,891 Mileage: 21,809 mi.
9. **The 2021 Ford F-150: A Modern Axle Anomaly**Ford’s long-standing F-150 series, despite its iconic status, has unfortunately faced a recurring pattern of reliability challenges, a trend that extended even to the relatively recent 2021 model. This particular iteration unfortunately underwent recalls, continuing a legacy where Ford F-150 trucks have received “the most manufacturer recalls ever.” This consistent need for corrective action raises significant red flags for potential buyers.
A terrifying issue with the 2021 Ford F-150 is the risk of its axle breaking, a critical component that, when it fails, not only causes major mechanical failure but also presents an immediate and severe safety hazard, risking complete loss of control.
The recurrence of such critical recalls, even on newer models, underscores persistent quality control or design flaws that can compromise the vehicle’s long-term durability and safety. This history demands that consumers approach even newer F-150 models with a degree of skepticism and thorough due diligence.
Car Model Information: 2021 Ford F-150 XL
Name: Ford F-Series
Caption: 2022 Ford F-150 Lariat Luxury
Manufacturer: Ford Motor Company
Aka: Ford Lobo (Mexico, 1992–present)
Production: 1948–present
Class: Pickup truck#Full-size pickup truck
Layout: Front-engine, rear-wheel-drive layout,rear-wheel drive
Predecessor: 1941 Ford
Categories: All-wheel-drive vehicles, All Wikipedia articles written in American English, All articles that may contain original research, All articles with unsourced statements, Articles that may contain original research from September 2020
Summary: The Ford F-Series is a series of light-duty trucks marketed and manufactured by the Ford Motor Company since model year 1948 as a range of full-sized pickup trucks — positioned between Ford’s Ranger and Super Duty pickup trucks. Alongside the F-150 (introduced in 1975), the F-Series also includes the Super Duty series (introduced in 1999), which includes the heavier-duty F-250 through F-450 pickups, F-450/F-550 chassis cabs, and F-600/F-650/F-750 Class 6–8 commercial trucks.
Get more information about: Ford F-Series
Buying a high-performing used car >>>
Brand: Ford Model: F-150
Price: $25,099 Mileage: 48,647 mi.
10. **The 2022 Toyota Tundra: Unexpected Quality Stumbles**Toyota has forged an enviable reputation for reliability, a brand image that typically reassures consumers. However, even the most esteemed manufacturers can occasionally produce models that fall short of expectations, and the 2022 Tundra appears to be one such instance. This model has led to “numerous unhappy consumers” due to a surprising emergence of various build quality concerns.
These “build quality concerns” for the 2022 Tundra are particularly troubling, as they indicate fundamental issues with how the vehicle is assembled or the quality of its components. Such problems can manifest in various ways, from premature wear and tear to structural weaknesses, diminishing the truck’s value and dependability over time.
In addition to structural and assembly issues, the 2022 Tundra also experienced problems with its advanced systems, as “the infotainment system is also experiencing glitches.” While not a direct safety hazard, a malfunctioning infotainment system detracts significantly from the modern driving experience and can be a source of constant frustration for owners.
Car Model Information: 2017 Toyota Tundra SR5
Name: Toyota Tundra
Manufacturer: Toyota
Production: May 1999 – present
ModelYears: 2000–present
Assembly: San Antonio,Texas
Class: Pickup truck#Full-size pickup truck
Layout: unbulleted list
Related: Toyota Sequoia
Predecessor: Toyota T100
Caption: 2022 Toyota Tundra Limited
Categories: 2000s cars, 2010s cars, 2020s cars, All-wheel-drive vehicles, All Wikipedia articles written in American English
Summary: The Toyota Tundra is a full-size pickup truck manufactured in the United States by the Japanese manufacturer Toyota since May 1999. The Tundra was the second full-size pickup to be built by a Japanese manufacturer (the first was the Toyota T100), but the Tundra was the first full-size pickup from a Japanese manufacturer to be built in North America. The Tundra was nominated for the North American Truck of the Year award and was Motor Trend magazine’s Truck of the Year in 2000 and 2008. Initially built in a new Toyota plant in Princeton, Indiana, production was consolidated in 2008 to Toyota’s San Antonio, Texas, factory.
Get more information about: Toyota Tundra
Buying a high-performing used car >>>
Brand: Toyota Model: Tundra
Price: $24,988 Mileage: 99,363 mi.
11. **The 2006 Honda Ridgeline: Electrical and Airbag Alarm Bells**The year 2006 consistently surfaces as a problematic period for several truck models, and the Honda Ridgeline from that year is no exception to this concerning trend. This particular Ridgeline model has garnered “hundreds of complaints and numerous recalls,” indicating systemic issues that buyers must be acutely aware of before considering a purchase.
Owners of the 2006 Ridgeline have reported significant electrical system problems, which are notoriously difficult and costly to fix, affecting everything from minor features to essential vehicle functions and potentially leading to breakdowns and safety concerns.
Even more critical are the widespread “airbag” concerns associated with this model, which were explicitly identified as “the cause of many of the recalls.” Airbags are fundamental safety devices designed to protect occupants in a collision. When these systems are compromised, the vehicle’s fundamental safety promise is broken, placing drivers and passengers at severe risk.
Car Model Information: 2024 Honda Ridgeline Sport
Name: Honda Ridgeline
Manufacturer: Honda
Caption: 2022 Honda Ridgeline
Production: 2005–early 2015,2016–present
ModelYears: 2006–2014,2017–present
Assembly: Alliston, Ontario
Class: Pickup truck#Mid-size pickup truck
BodyStyle: 4-door pickup truck
Layout: ubl
Categories: 2010s cars, All-wheel-drive vehicles, All Wikipedia articles written in American English, Articles with short description, CS1 maint: multiple names: authors list
Summary: The Honda Ridgeline is a mid-size pickup truck manufactured and marketed by Honda since the 2006 model year, over two generations in a unibody, crew–cab, short-box configuration with a transverse-mounted engine.
Get more information about: Honda Ridgeline
Buying a high-performing used car >>>
Brand: Honda Model: Ridgeline
Price: $32,051 Mileage: 22,031 mi.
12. **The 2020 Jeep Gladiator: Design Meets Disappointment**Jeep is renowned for its distinctive design and rugged style, consistently producing trucks that stand out in the market. Yet, the 2020 Jeep Gladiator, despite its unique appeal, has been plagued by a range of issues that compromise its functionality and reliability. This model presents a complex picture for potential owners.
A significant area of concern for the 2020 Gladiator involves its steering. Steering problems are not only frustrating for daily driving but can also be extremely hazardous, directly impacting the driver’s ability to control the vehicle safely. Such issues demand immediate and often costly attention.
Beyond handling, the 2020 Gladiator also faced problems with its “engine cooling.” An inefficient or failing engine cooling system can lead to overheating, which in turn can cause severe and permanent damage to the engine, resulting in extremely expensive repairs or even complete engine replacement.
Adding to these mechanical woes, owners also reported issues with the “audio equipment.” While not critical for vehicle operation, persistent problems with the infotainment and audio systems detract from the overall ownership experience, especially in a modern vehicle where such features are expected to function flawlessly.
Car Model Information: 2021 Jeep Gladiator Sport
Name: Jeep Gladiator (JT)
Aka: Jeep JT (Mexico)
Manufacturer: Jeep
Production: April 2019–present
ModelYears: 2020–present
Assembly: Toledo, Ohio
Designer: Taylor Langhals
Engine: ubl
Transmission: List of Aisin transmissions#Longitudinal rear-wheel drive,Manual transmission
Class: Mid-size,pickup truck
BodyStyle: 4-door pickup truck with removable roof and doors
Related: Jeep Wrangler (JL)
Layout: Front-engine, four-wheel-drive layout
Predecessor: Jeep CJ#CJ-10,Jeep Comanche
Weight: convert
Wheelbase: 137.3 in
Abbr: on
Lk: on
Length: 218.0 in
Width: 73.8 in
Height: convert
Categories: All-wheel-drive vehicles, Articles with short description, CS1 Japanese-language sources (ja), Cars introduced in 2018, Commons category link is on Wikidata
Summary: The Jeep Gladiator is a mid-size pickup truck manufactured by the Jeep division of Stellantis North America (formerly FCA US). It was introduced at the 2018 Los Angeles Auto Show on November 28, 2018, and went on sale in the spring of 2019 as a 2020 model. Based on the same platform as the Wrangler JL, the Gladiator is Jeep’s first pickup truck since the Comanche was discontinued in 1992, although the very similar dual-cab AEV Brute was custom-made using the Wrangler platform from 2013 until 2017 by American Expedition Vehicles under license.
The first markets outside the Americas were Australia and New Zealand. It is now also marketed in China, Japan, South Korea, South Africa as well as in selected nations in South America, Europe, and Southeast Asia.
Get more information about: Jeep Gladiator (JT)
Buying a high-performing used car >>>
Brand: Jeep Model: Gladiator
Price: $34,900 Mileage: 48,340 mi.
13. **The 2008 Chevrolet Colorado: Engine and Cooling System Concerns**The 2008 Chevrolet Colorado, while perhaps presenting an attractive upfront cost with potentially “lower yearly maintenance costs than other models out there,” comes with a significant caveat. This specific model year has a history of critical mechanical failures that undermine any perceived initial value, making it a risky proposition for used truck buyers.
The 2008 Colorado has undergone “two recalls for major engine issues.” Engine problems are among the most serious and expensive repairs a vehicle owner can face. These can range from minor component failures to complete engine malfunctions, directly impacting the truck’s performance, reliability, and lifespan.
Complementing these engine concerns are documented “cooling system problems.” The cooling system is vital for maintaining optimal engine temperature; a malfunction can quickly lead to overheating, which can catastrophically damage the engine. These issues underscore a fundamental lack of durability in critical mechanical areas for this model year.
Car Model Information: 2018 Chevrolet Colorado LT
Name: Chevrolet Colorado
Caption: 2024 Chevrolet Colorado Z71
Manufacturer: General Motors
Production: 2003–2012, 2014–present (US),2004–2020
(Thailand),2011–present (Brazil)
Class: Pickup truck,Pickup truck
Layout: Front-engine, rear-wheel-drive layout
Predecessor: Chevrolet S-10,Chevrolet D-Max,Holden Rodeo,Holden Ute
Aka: GMC Canyon,Holden Colorado
Categories: 2010s cars, 2020s cars, All-wheel-drive vehicles, All articles with dead external links, Articles with dead external links from November 2016
Summary: The Chevrolet Colorado (sharing mechanical commonality with the GMC Canyon) is a series of compact pickup trucks (mid-size since second generation) marketed by American automaker General Motors. They were introduced in 2004 to replace the Chevrolet S-10 and GMC S-15/Sonoma compact pickups. The Colorado is named after the U.S. state of Colorado, while the Canyon took its name from the deep chasm between cliffs.
Get more information about: Chevrolet Colorado
Buying a high-performing used car >>>
Brand: Chevrolet Model: Colorado
Price: $24,388 Mileage: 60,344 mi.
14. **The 2012 Dodge Ram 2500: A Fiery Recall History**Dodge Ram’s journey through the early 2010s was not without its significant stumbles, with the 2012 Ram 2500 model standing out as a particularly alarming example. This truck demonstrated a severe and life-threatening flaw, suggesting that critical lessons from previous reliability issues were not adequately integrated into its design and manufacturing.
The most shocking revelation surrounding the 2012 Dodge Ram 2500 is that “the engine caught on fire during test crashes.” This unprecedented failure highlights a catastrophic design or manufacturing defect, indicating a profound and unacceptable risk of vehicle ignition under stress. Such a defect goes far beyond typical mechanical issues.
This grave safety concern directly “led to recalls due to fire risks.” For consumers, a vehicle recalled for fire risks is a potent warning sign that its fundamental safety has been compromised. Owning such a vehicle not only carries immense financial uncertainty but, more critically, presents a constant and direct threat to personal safety.
Car Model Information: 2024 Honda Civic Sport
Name: Dodge Ram / Ram pickup
Caption: 2017 Ram 1500 Express
Manufacturer: Dodge
ModelYears: 1981–present
Production: October 1980 – present
Class: Pickup truck#Full-size pickup truck,Pickup truck#Heavy-duty pickup truck
Layout: Front-engine, rear-wheel-drive layout,rear-wheel drive
Predecessor: Dodge D series
Categories: 1990s cars, 2000s cars, 2010s cars, 2020s cars, All-wheel-drive vehicles
Summary: The Ram pickup (marketed as the Dodge Ram until 2010 when Ram Trucks was spun-off from Dodge) is a full-size pickup truck manufactured by Stellantis North America (formerly Chrysler Group LLC and FCA US LLC) and marketed from 2010 onwards under the Ram Trucks brand. The current fifth-generation Ram debuted at the 2018 North American International Auto Show in Detroit, Michigan, in January of that year.
Previously, Ram was part of the Dodge line of light trucks. The Ram name was introduced in October 1980 for model year 1981, when the Dodge D series pickup trucks and B series vans were rebranded, though the company had used a ram’s-head hood ornament on some trucks as early as 1933.
Ram trucks have been named Motor Trend magazine’s Truck of the Year eight times; the second-generation Ram won the award in 1994, the third-generation Ram heavy-duty won the award in 2003, the fourth-generation Ram Heavy Duty won in 2010 and the fourth-generation Ram 1500 won in 2013 and 2014, and the current fifth-generation Ram pickup became the first truck in history to win the award four times, winning in 2019, 2020, 2021 and most recently, 2025.
Get more information about: Ram pickup
Buying a high-performing used car >>>
Brand: Dodge Model: Ram 2500
Price: $27,891 Mileage: 21,809 mi.
15. **The 2006 Dodge Ram 2500: Drivetrain and Transmission Disarray**Revisiting the problematic year of 2006, the Dodge Ram 2500 also exhibited significant reliability concerns, much like its 1500 sibling. This heavy-duty model, intended for serious work, instead became entangled in a web of manufacturing defects that severely hampered its dependable operation and long-term value.
The 2006 Dodge Ram 2500 was subjected to an alarming “11 total recalls,” a frequency that unequivocally points to widespread and systemic flaws across multiple crucial vehicle systems. Such a high number of recalls is a stark indicator of a vehicle rushed to market without adequate testing or quality control.
These numerous recalls were specifically concentrated around its “transmission and drivetrain components.” The transmission and drivetrain are the heart of a truck’s ability to move and transmit power effectively. Failures in these areas lead to significant operational problems, expensive repairs, and a substantial loss of the truck’s utility and capability.
For a truck marketed for heavy-duty use, compromised transmission and drivetrain reliability is unacceptable. These issues diminish its workhorse potential and burden owners with consistent, severe mechanical problems, making the 2006 Dodge Ram 2500 a model best avoided if long-term dependability is a priority.
Car Model Information: 2024 Honda Civic Sport
Name: Dodge Ram / Ram pickup
Caption: 2017 Ram 1500 Express
Manufacturer: Dodge
ModelYears: 1981–present
Production: October 1980 – present
Class: Pickup truck#Full-size pickup truck,Pickup truck#Heavy-duty pickup truck
Layout: Front-engine, rear-wheel-drive layout,rear-wheel drive
Predecessor: Dodge D series
Categories: 1990s cars, 2000s cars, 2010s cars, 2020s cars, All-wheel-drive vehicles
Summary: The Ram pickup (marketed as the Dodge Ram until 2010 when Ram Trucks was spun-off from Dodge) is a full-size pickup truck manufactured by Stellantis North America (formerly Chrysler Group LLC and FCA US LLC) and marketed from 2010 onwards under the Ram Trucks brand. The current fifth-generation Ram debuted at the 2018 North American International Auto Show in Detroit, Michigan, in January of that year.
Previously, Ram was part of the Dodge line of light trucks. The Ram name was introduced in October 1980 for model year 1981, when the Dodge D series pickup trucks and B series vans were rebranded, though the company had used a ram’s-head hood ornament on some trucks as early as 1933.
Ram trucks have been named Motor Trend magazine’s Truck of the Year eight times; the second-generation Ram won the award in 1994, the third-generation Ram heavy-duty won the award in 2003, the fourth-generation Ram Heavy Duty won in 2010 and the fourth-generation Ram 1500 won in 2013 and 2014, and the current fifth-generation Ram pickup became the first truck in history to win the award four times, winning in 2019, 2020, 2021 and most recently, 2025.
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Buying a high-performing used car >>>
Brand: Dodge Model: Ram 2500
Price: $27,891 Mileage: 21,809 mi.
When buying a used truck, stay alert and do your homework; the models discussed here, with their transmission woes, safety recalls, and quality issues, are a stark reminder that advertised promises aren’t always reality, so research thoroughly, check records, and always get a professional inspection to avoid regret and ensure your safety.
