Used Trucks for Sale in Modesto, CA - Autotrader (2024)

FAQs

Are older trucks worth buying? ›

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.

Ford maintains the top spot with Chevrolet and Ram close behind. Pickup trucks continue to dominate the sales charts in America. Automakers have introduced several new models over the last few years while others have refreshed existing models, giving consumers more options.

High Demand and Versatility

This high demand across diverse markets keeps resale values strong. Additionally, trucks are often viewed as more durable and capable of withstanding harsher conditions, which sustains their value over time.

Toyota received Overall Best Resale Value award for the seventh time in eight years with five total category wins. The 2024 Toyota Tundra full-size pickup truck has a resale value of 60.4%.

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.

Today, I am thrilled to share a milestone that fills all of us at Ford with immense pride. 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.

Best selling truck of all time

The Ford F-Series is the most popular truck and best-selling truck in the US. It's been that way for nearly half a century. The Ford F-Series reaches an amazing 48-year streak in 2024 as the most popular truck in America.

America's best-selling vehicle has not changed during the past 42 years. And some people might be surprised to learn that the top seller is not a car, but a truck. It is the Ford F-150.

What is considered high mileage for a truck? ›

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.

The rule of thumb is "If you drive more than 25,000 miles a year and will need a truck for at least 5 years, buy new". A used truck on the other hand can be the best & most cost effective solution in a variety of situations. A quality 4 to 5 year old truck will typically cost 40 to 60 percent less than when it was new.

#1 - Ford F-Series

The Ford F-Series has been the best-selling pickup truck in America for over 40 years. It is the epitome of American engineering and design, and it is loved by millions of truck enthusiasts all over the world.

The “sweet spot” for purchasing a used car is between 2 to 5 years old. This is the age range where the car has already gone through the steepest part of its depreciation curve, but it's still relatively new and in good condition.

Cars over 10 years old can still be reliable. Most vehicles can last well over a decade with proper care and maintenance. In fact, the average car on U.S. roads is now 12.5 years old, according to a study from S&P Global Mobility. Furthermore, a car doesn't really stop depreciating until it hits that 10-year mark.

“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.

One of the best reasons to buy an old truck is because they're inexpensive. Of course, this varies depending on make, model, mileage, year, and trim, but unless you're looking at something special and unique you won't pay anywhere near the amount you would for a new truck.