The 14 Most Reliable Pickup Trucks, Ranked

Trucks often have a mixed reputation when it comes to dependability. While their off-road capability, towing capacity, and engine performance usually top those of other vehicle types, trucks can experience reliability issues. According to a CarsDirect analysis of Consumer Reports data, trucks rank dead last for reliability when compared to other vehicle types, with an average dependability ranking of 41 out of 100. Meanwhile, cars scored a 57, SUVs earned a 50, and minivans landed a 45. Consumer Reports has even highlighted the least reliable pickup trucks of recent years. This bad rep doesn't mean drivers cannot find a truck that's both a consistent workhorse and a reliable model in the long run. The trick is knowing what characteristics to use when filtering for pickups and what nameplates to consider.

To get a holistic reading of the most reliable pickup trucks, Money Digest looked at rankings from two leading automotive publications: J.D. Power and Edmunds. The J.D. Power Quality and Reliability score relies on feedback from long-term owners over at least three years for a real-world assessment of a vehicle's dependability. The Edmunds Value score relies on professional testing to determine a cost-benefit analysis. Together, our composite reliability score ensures a truck is reliable in terms of performance and expenses. We'll also cover the prolonged maintenance, safety rankings, and recall information for each pickup. These are the 14 most reliable pickup trucks, ranked from the highest score to the lowest.

The 2021 Chevrolet Silverado earned an 87 on the J.D. Power ranking and a 75 on the Edmunds score for a hybrid reliability score of 81. This makes it one of the most dependable trucks on the market. According to Edmunds, this mid-size truck delivers a powerful punch with a gas-powered V6 or a four-cylinder diesel engine, with greater towing capacity than some of its peers. This is paired with a smooth ride and intuitive controls. On average, a 2021 Chevrolet Silverado sells for about $26,614, placing it 48.3% below the average price of a new car, which is $51,456, according to Kelley Blue Book.

CarEdge projects the 10-year maintenance cost for the Silverado at $10,664, which is $1,039 more than the norm for similar pickups. The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) gave this truck perfect crashworthiness scores across the board, with the sole exception of the passenger side small-overlap front test. Its headlights were judged poorly, however. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), the 2021 Colorado is subject to one recall for each of its two-wheel and four-wheel driver iterations.

The 2022 Hyundai Santa Cruz received a 77 on the J.D. Power Quality and Reliability score and an impressive 85 on the Edmunds Value ranking. This results in a hybrid dependability of 81. Edmunds highlights this truck's responsive, zippy handling and smooth ride quality for a premium driving experience. The standard model comes with a suite of standard features, and an upgraded trim can bring a powerful performance boost with a turbocharged engine. Consumers tend to pay around $30,829 for the 2022 Santa Cruz, placing it 40.1% under the market average. Notably, Money Digest has highlighted this pickup as one of the most reliable trucks compared to the Tesla Cybertruck.

Owners can expect to spend around $9,765 on maintenance in the first 10 years of driving the Santa Cruz, which is only $140 above the market standard for comparable trucks, according to CarEdge. The 2022 Santa Cruz is included in the IIHS Top Safety Pick for the year, which is the second-highest classification, denoting superior crashworthiness and safety standards. The 2022 Hyundai Santa Cruz has been recalled four times, each for its front-wheel and all-wheel drive versions, per the NHTSA.

J.D. Power graced the 2022 Toyota Tacoma with an 86, while Edmunds judged it to be a 75. Overall, this popular pickup sports a combined reliability ranking of 80.5. Edmunds points out the Tacoma's advanced tech features, including a power outlet and adjustable cleats. Although this truck rides high compared to some competitors, the trade-off is stellar off-road performance. It also comes with an optional V6 engine for enhanced capability and power. All these features are wrapped up into an average sales price of $37,148, saving owners 27.8% against the new-car standard. Once you purchase a Tacoma, your value is maintained well. Money Digest has highlighted this truck as one of the Toyotas with the best resale value.

The Toyota Tacoma gives long-term owners a break on upkeep expenses, undercutting the competition by $2,694 in the first 10 years, for an overall maintenance bill of $6,931, according to CarEdge. The 2022 Toyota Tacoma received a mixed crashworthiness report from the IIHS, with issues found with the small-overlap front passenger-side and moderate-overlap front tests. The NHTSA reports three separate recalls for each of the 2022 Tacoma's two-wheel and four-wheel drive models.

The Ford Maverick may not sell as many units as its F-Series counterparts, but it boasts higher reliability. This newer model earned an 81 on the J.D. Power Quality and Reliability index and a stellar 80 on the Edmunds Value score for a combined dependability ranking of 80.5, a notch above the F-150. Edmunds underscores the Maverick's comparatively modest entry-level price, along with its long list of available add-ons to improve safety, off-pavement performance, and towing capacity. With a hybrid option, drivers can enhance their fuel savings. Typically, people spend about $32,257 on the 2022 Maverick, placing it solidly cheaper than the market standard by 37.3%.

CarEdge estimates that the initial decade of driving the Maverick costs owners $10,735 in upkeep costs, which is $1,110 above that of comparable models. The 2022 Maverick achieved above-average results on its IIHS crashworthiness and positive scores on its front crash prevention systems. Although this truck received many fewer tests than other pickups. It's crucial to point out that the NHTSA indicates the 2022 Maverick has been recalled a staggering 27 times, each for its front-wheel and four-wheel drive models.

Although there are many vehicles more reliable than the F-150, not many pickups outpace this Ford favorite. A J.D. Power score of 79 and an Edmunds' ranking of 80 earn this truck a combined reliability rating of 79.5. Similar to the Maverick, the 2022 F-150 comes with hybrid trims, which help slash the energy costs usually associated with trucks. This pickup also comes with an intuitive tech display complete with an available 12-inch screen. The towing capacity is solid, and the interior is stylish and comfortable. This laundry list of goodies will only cost you about $39,111, per Edmunds, which is 24% below the auto industry standard.

CarEdge places the 10-year upkeep costs of the F-150 at $11,242, which is $1,617 more expensive than the maintenance bill of similar models. The 2022 F-150 earned a spot in the IIHS Top Safety Pick class with a spotless crashworthiness record, without any of its simulations falling below the perfect score. Its headlights varied in performance by trim, but its front crash prevention systems for pedestrians and vehicles received high marks. The NHTSA indicates that the 2022 Ford F-150 has been subject to 22 different recalls across all of its trim and engine types.

The 2020 Honda Ridgeline is the most reliable truck of its production year with an excellent hybrid reliability score of 79, resulting from a J.D. Power ranking of 78 and an Edmunds' rating of 80. According to Edmunds, the 2020 Ridgeline offers a standout driving experience, stemming from its trailing arm suspension. This makes for a more responsive and comfortable ride. The all-wheel drive design gives the Ridgeline better steering on the road and in off-pavement scenarios. At the same time, drivers appreciate the well-designed and roomy interior. The 2022 model is yours for $25,475, nearly half the cost of a typical new vehicle.

CarEdge suggests the 10-year upkeep costs of the Ridgeline are $8,825, which saves owners $800 when measured against similar pickups. The 2020 Honda Ridgeline is recognized as an IIHS Top Safety Pick, scoring near-perfect on crashworthiness and exhibiting a first-rate front crash prevention system for vehicles. The NHTSA indicates that the 2020 Ridgeline has been recalled seven times for each of its front-wheel and all-wheel drive models and has been the subject of two investigations.

The 2021 Ford Ranger earned an exceptional J.D. Power rating of 87, yet a relatively modest Edmunds' score of 70. However, the combined reliability ranking of 78.5 still places it among the most reliable pickup trucks on the market. Edmunds celebrates this model's dynamic standard safety features, offering drivers plenty of protection. Furthermore, the Ranger's performance doesn't disappoint with sufficient towing and payload capacity. Various trim upgrades offer more potent engines for increased output if desired. While missing some of the oomph of its F-150 cousin, the 2021 Ranger comes in at a lower average price of $27,483. For context, that's about 46.6% below the cost of a new car.

Ford is one of the car brands that costs the least over time, but the Ranger bucks this trend with a maintenance bill $1,314 above the average. Over 10 years, owners tend to spend $10,930, per CarEdge. IIHS gave the 2021 Ranger top-level scores on its crashworthiness, although the small-overlap front test earned the second-highest rating. Its headlights didn't receive positive results, though. According to the NHTSA, the 2021 Ranger has been subject to six recalls for its two-wheel and four-wheel drive versions.

The newer Nissan Frontiers have been highlighted among the least reliable new cars, according to Consumer Reports. Yet, this doesn't extend to all production years. The 2022 Frontier offers a hybrid reliability score of 78. It earned an 81 on the J.D. Power Quality and Reliability score and a 75 on the Edmunds Value index. This release offers a number of updates from prior models. Edmunds recognizes the 2022 Frontier's capable V6, offering laudable towing and payload abilities. Owners benefit from responsive steering, which results in a smooth and stable ride. Well-thought-out design compartments mean there's a place for everything you want to pack away. The average 2022 Frontier sells for $31,066, sitting 39.6% below the average price of a new vehicle.

CarEdge estimates that the average Frontier owner spends $9,190 to keep this truck up and running smoothly within the initial decade of ownership. That's $435 under the market norm for similar pickups. The IIHS didn't test the 2022 Nissan Frontier thoroughly, with only two crash test simulations. This model received the highest and the second-highest score on the moderate-overlap and side-overlap front test, respectively. Per the NHTSA, the 2022 Nissan Frontier has been subject to six recalls, each for its rear-wheel and four-wheel drive models.

The brand-new Ram 1500 has been panned as one of the least dependable new pickup trucks, according to Consumer Reports. Similar to the Nissan Frontier, however, not every 1500 falls into this trap. The 2020 production year offers stellar dependability, with a composite score of 77.5. J.D. Power granted the 2020 1500 an 80, while Edmunds gave it a 75. The 2020 Ram is designed with independent rear suspension, creating a streamlined ride. It comes stock with a potent V6 engine, although upgrades are available for an even more productive V8. Drivers appreciate the responsive handling and spacious cabin, as pointed out by Edmunds. The average price tag for the 2020 Ram 1500 is $31,691, saving drivers 38.4% compared to the newest vehicles.

Given its impressive stature and complicated design, the Ram 1500 costs $9,576 to maintain more than comparable trucks, according to CarEdge. Within the first 10 years of driving, this pickup comes with upkeep expenses of around $19,201. The IIHS saw it fit to include the 2020 Ram 1500 in its premium Top Safety Pick+ category, which is the highest classification available. This truck has an unblemished crashworthiness record, with perfect ratings in all simulations. Its headlights and front crash prevention systems for vehicles also performed well. Despite this high safety rating, the 2020 Ram 1500 has been recalled 13 different times, across various trim and engine types, per the NHTSA.

The 2021 Toyota Tundra stumbles a bit with a relatively modest Edmunds' Value score of 70, but it recovers with a solid J.D. Power Quality and Reliability rating of 84. This combines for a hybrid dependability score of 77, making it one of the most reliable pickups available. According to Edmunds, the 2021 Tundra's primary strengths include its standard towing capacity, superior interior quality, and capable V8 engine, which is standard on all trims. Beyond that, the Tacoma offers a spacious interior, even in the rear seat. The 2021 Tundra is a bit pricier than other trucks, with an average sales price of $44,457. However, this still falls under the market standard by 13.6%. On the flip side, the Tundra enjoys a depreciation rate that beats the Toyota RAV4.

The Tundra comes with a decade-long maintenance bill of $7,226, which actually undercuts the average for similar trucks by $2,399, according to CarEdge. The IIHS gave the 2021 Tundra varied results on crashworthiness, with the small-overlap front driver and passenger side test failing to reach a perfect rating. Furthermore, the truck's roof strength was found to be poor. The NHTSA reports three recalls for this vehicle.

The newer GMC Sierras are plagued by reliability issues, but the 2022 model escapes these problems. This pickup truck yielded an 84 on J.D. Power's ranking and a 70 on Edmunds' index, resulting in a composite reliability score of 77. The 2022 GMC offers a smooth driving experience over the majority of terrains, fueled by a V6 standard engine or an upgraded diesel four-cylinder. Drivers can tow an impressive amount behind this high-performing pickup. Despite its size and capabilities, the 2022 Canyon still delivers a smooth and responsive driving experience. Edmunds puts the average price at $36,478, which is 29.1% more affordable than the typical new car.

CarEdge estimates that Canyon drivers should budget about $9,531 within a decade for general repairs and upkeep. This is $94 less than the norm for comparable models. The 2022 Canyon earned above-average results on all its crashworthiness scores from the IIHS, although its small-overlap front test on the driver side fell to the second-highest ranking. Its headlights were found to be subpar across all trim types. Notably, the 2022 GMC Canyon has only been recalled once, per the NHTSA.

The GMC Sierra 1500 is one of the cars known for reliability beyond 200,000 miles, making it a competitive option for drivers prioritizing longevity. The 2020 model is an outlier even among the Sierra's strong reputation, with a composite reliability score of 75. This pickup earned an outstanding 85 on the J.D. Power Quality and Reliability ranking, although it fell a bit on the Edmunds Value index, earning a 65. Among this vehicle's most appealing features are its wide variety of powertrains, ample bed space, and roomy cabin, even in the rear seat. The 2020 model features an upgraded touchscreen infotainment system, which marks a step up from prior releases. 

The average 2020 Sierra 1500 goes for $35,962, according to Edmunds, which rests 30.1% below the average price for a new vehicle. CarEdge places the 10-year general maintenance bill of this nameplate at $9,861, roughly $236 more than the class standard. The IIHS highlighted the small-overlap front passenger side and headlights as the main weaknesses of the 2020 Sierra 1500. The NHTSA reports 12 recalls for this pickup.

J.D. Power estimated the 2021 Nissan Titan's dependability at 79, and Edmunds judged it to be a 70. The combined hybrid score of 74.5 isn't the highest, but it remains among the most reliable pickup trucks on the road. Befitting its name, the 2021 Nissan Titan comes standard with a muscular V8 engine, immediately increasing its towing and payload capacity above its peers. Furthermore, Edmunds highlights this pickup's comfortable seating design, keeping drivers engaged for longer hauls. On top of that, the Titan's litany of standard tech and safety features makes the deal even more appealing. Most people are paying around $31,113 for a used 2021 Nissan Titan, saving 39.5% compared to the new-car average.

Drivers should budget about $9,522 to keep the Nissan Titan running smoothly within the first decade of ownership, which is a modest $103 cheaper than comparable models, according to CarEdge. The IIHS judged the Titan's crashworthiness as superior, with only the small-overlap front passenger side test failing to receive a perfect score, falling to the second-highest rating. The headlights across trim types were found to be underperforming. All 2021 Titans are subject to five recalls, except the XD Crew Cab, which has only been recalled once, per the NHTSA.

The 2020 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 earns a spot on this list of the most dependable trucks with a composite reliability score of 73.5, resulting from a J.D. Power rating of 82 and an Edmunds' ranking of 65. Buyers can pick from a diverse lineup of powertrains across different trim types, offering a multitude of performance packages. Even the standard 2020 Silverado 1500 delivers on the performance, power, and capability expected from a premium full-size truck. It has a roomy bed for plenty of hauling space. Plus, the cabin offers enough room for four adults to feel comfortable. A suite of tech features and functional elements make this a perfect work truck, too. Edmunds estimates that the average 2020 Silverado 1500 goes for $31,128, about 39.5% under the price of the typical new car.

Despite being one of America's most popular brands, Chevrolet might make you overpay in maintenance costs compared to the average car brand. The Silverado 1500 maintains this reputation, costing $1,325 more in maintenance across 10 years than similar trucks. CarEdge suggests owners tend to pay $10,950 across this period. The 2020 Silverado 1500 came up short on the small-overlap front passenger side test and the side crash simulation, while every other test received top-tier results. The IIHS criticized the vehicle's headlights throughout its lineup, though. Critically, the NHTSA reports 12 recalls for each of the 2020 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 trim types.