Get the Job Done Right for Less
Farm trucks need to be reliable, capable, and affordable. Look for these models at used car dealerships to find one that checks all three boxes.
Running a farm is hard work, and margins are often slim, even on established agricultural operations. Whether farming vegetables or keeping livestock, a reliable truck is one key to success.
Used car dealerships are great resources for buyers who know what to look for. Read on to find out about the most reliable farm trucks, then choose one of the workhorses from this list.
1. Toyota Tundra
The Toyota Tundra was first introduced in 1999. The first-generation trucks from this lineup were a bit small for full-size pickups, and they’re getting up there in the mileage department even for high-quality, reliable vehicles. Second-generation Toyota Tundras make excellent farm trucks.
Produced from 2007-2013, the best models for farming have the 381-hp 5.7L V-8 engine and automatic transmission. Toyota’s reputation for durability extends to the Tundra, many of which surpass the quarter-million mile mark. They’re good for moderate towing and hauling.
2. Ram 3500
A 2024 study from iSeeCars.com places the Ram 3500 at the top of the longevity list, above even the Toyota Tundra. It’s over two times as likely as the average vehicle to pass 250,000 miles. These trucks maintain their value well over time, so they can be expensive.
Ram 3500 trucks with a Cummins turbodiesel engine are excellent options for farmers who need to do heavy hauling. Avoid the 2007 models with the 6.7L engines, though. They’re less fuel efficient than average.
3. Chevrolet Silverado 1500
The Silverado 1500 is a popular farm truck because it’s so readily available. Avoid used Silverado 1500s from 2014-2018. The third generation of this truck is not known for its reliability, even though GM’s EcoTec3 engine was a strong performer.
The second-generation Silverado 1500 is an excellent choice for farmers on a budget. Look for a model with a 6.2L V-8 engine for moving moderate loads. If you plan to tow or haul seriously heavy loads, consider a Silverado 2500HD or 3500HD. These heavy-duty trucks are well-known for their reliability.
3. Ford F-150
The Ford F-150 has claimed a rightful place as the best-selling pickup truck in America for many years. Since it’s been around for decades, buyers can find used options that fit just about any budget. While the F-150 doesn’t top most lists for reliability, parts are so readily available and affordable that it deserves a spot on the list, anyway.
While it’s no Super Duty, the F-150 can tow and haul more than its share of weight. Some used models can tow as much as 11,300 lbs and haul up to 3,060 lbs. Do some research before heading to the used car dealership, though, because engine specs vary, and you’ll have a lot of options.
Buy From a Dealership
Some farmers assume they’ll save money by purchasing suspiciously low-priced trucks on the private market, but it rarely works out in their favor over time. It can be difficult to evaluate the condition of used trucks sold by private parties, which makes reliability a problem.
Going to used car dealerships makes finding the right truck easier and allows farmers to get straightforward, well-informed answers to questions about particular models before they buy.
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Daniel Malone