Saving & Spending Home & Auto

8 Notoriously Unreliable Used Trucks You Shouldn’t Buy In 2025

These frustrating rides could cost you money and waste your time.

Pickup truck in the parking lot
Updated Jan. 22, 2025
Fact checked

If you are looking for a new truck, some of the biggest names might be the ones to avoid. Their reputation for unreliability presents a red flag to shoppers.

If you want to make some wise car owner moves, know that avoiding the following used trucks might help you steer clear of costly repairs and major headaches.

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Jeep Gladiator

Jan Kliment/Adobe Pick-up to the field

Reports say the Jeep Gladiator produces loud road noise and has poor fuel economy and subpar handling.

This vehicle might be OK for off-road adventures, but it has not earned raves for how it handles during city driving. So, while the Gladiator might be mechanically sound, it’s probably not super-reliable for getting around town in comfort and style.

Toyota Tundra

Geoffrey Tipton/Wirestock Creators/Adobe Low angle shot of 2022 Toyota Tundra

The Toyota Tundra generally has a reputation for reliability. While that might be true for some model years, those who own a 2022 model might be inclined to disagree.

Reports suggest a few drawbacks to the 2022 version. You may find issues with the engine or the build itself. The infotainment system may also give you headaches due to glitches.

Ford F-150 Hybrid

jetcityimage/Adobe Ford F-150 display at a dealership

The standard Ford F-150 is the best-selling truck in the U.S.. However, reviewers say the hybrid option is pretty unreliable.

In fact, the 2021 hybrid received low reliability ratings from Consumer Reports, and things did not improve much in subsequent years.

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Chevy Silverado 1500

jetcityimage/Adobe Chevrolet Silverado on display

Consumer Reports says the Chevy Silverado 1500 does not score well in terms of reliability.

Over the years, there have been engine concerns with full-size GM trucks. Some engines have had problems with lifters failing.

Drivers have also reported problems with the advanced cylinder deactivation system. Like some of the other trucks on this list, you may also experience issues with the infotainment system.

GMC Sierra 1500

Mike Mareen/Adobe GMC Sierra 1500 AT4 - Off-Road Truck

The GMC Sierra 1500 has some of the same issues you will find with the Chevy Silverado 1500. Like the Silverado, it has an overall reliability score that leaves much to be desired.

So, look out for problems with engines and in-car electronics. In fact, overall reliability scores for this one are pretty dismal, putting it behind many of its rivals.

Rivian R1T

jetcityimage/Adobe Pickup Truck display

The Rivian R1T is an all-electric truck. Unfortunately, it might not provide a reliable ride.

Consumer Reports says this one scores low for reliability. Keep in mind that this is a newer truck, so longer-term reliability reports are not yet available.

Nissan Titan XD

jetcityimage/Adobe Nissan Titan display at a dealership

Consumer Reports has given the full-size Nissan Titan XD a low reliability score, ranking it among the worst vehicles.

You may especially want to steer clear if you desire strong towing and hauling capacities. There are more powerful rivals, and even half-ton options that might offer you more capabilities and reliability.

RAM 1500

Grzegorz/Adobe white dodge Ram parking

The RAM 1500 has a long history of poor reliability. Issues have been noted, such as brake light leaks that allow water to seep into the cabin, engine troubles that cause a ticking sound in the engine, and suspension glitches.

The truck also has a reputation for costly repairs due to rust and corrosion on body panels.

Bottom line

damrong/Adobe row of new pickup trucks

If you plan to spend thousands of dollars for a used truck, make sure it’s going to give you a reliable and safe ride for years to come.

Avoiding the trucks on this list — and taking other proactive steps, such as shopping around so you save money on car insurance — can help you keep more money in your pocket instead of wasting it.

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