What trucks, 1998-2005, are most reliable?

[redfishsc]

I am going to have to buy a truck sometime soon-- it can be a small 4-banger or a light duty full size, I really don't care. I'm more interested in reliability than ANYTHING.


In years past I'd just buy a Toyota (for known build quality) or a Chevy (for decent build quality and the fact that I know basically how to fix the older stuff). But neither of these seem to be getting good reputations for build quality, especially Chevy. Also, I've spent the past 10 years in education (B.A. and M.Div degrees) and since that time I've not kept up with what trucks are being built that are reliable.


I know for a fact I am NOT going to be buying a Chevy Colorado or a GMC Canyon. I have several friends with them and NONE are happy. Engine and brake problems galore.


Anyhow, I'm budgeted for spending no more than $8-10K, and this means I'm going to be limited to older trucks with 80K+ miles.

Anyone have any suggestions? I am able to do some repairs myself but I stop at major stuff like head gaskets. I can handle brake jobs, tuneups, jammed window motors, etc.

[oldblu65]

Try going to www.edmunds.com/used-cars/ . Click on " reviews " at top of page and enter make and model info on whichever trucks interest you . There should be lots of info listed - good luck !

[Jamesfranklin]

I like the link posted in this posted as it will help me in getting a proper vehicle for transportation across the country or outside the country.