The Best Used Trucks Under $5,000


in Best

(and how to find one worth a damn)

Photo of used pickup

Let’s be frank - you’re not going to get a nice truck with $5,000. But you can get a reliable, well-running truck, which really counts. Why spend $50-70k on a brand new truck you’re going to beat the hell out of anyway? This article will help you determine the best-used trucks that cost less than $5,000 and offer high levels of capability and reliability, as well as how to find them in your area during the truck shortage.

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2003 Ford Ranger

Photo of 2003 Ford Ranger

Average Price Paid: $4,400

Horsepower: 151 - 207

Towing Capability: 5,000 lbs (when properly equipped)

Payload: 1,500 lbs

Although the Ford Ranger represents among the most basic of trucks, it is praised for its toughness and exemplary reliability.

There are two cab configurations and two engine choices, ranging from a fuel-efficient four-cylinder motor to a powerful six-cylinder option.

2WD and 4WD are available, as well as manual and automatic transmissions. There are stories of Rangers that efficiently run over 300, 400, or 500k miles, which is a testament to the straightforward, practical nature of the Ranger.

Regardless of what you need the Ranger to do, you’ll easily be able to find a well-maintained model for less than $5000. 

2000 Dodge Ram

Photo of 2000 Dodge Ram

Average Price Paid: $3,700 - $4,995

Horsepower: 180 - 230

Towing Capability: 7,950 lbs (when properly equipped)

Payload: 2,379 lbs (when properly equipped) 

The Dodge Ram is one of the prototypical trucks for sale in America today. Its rugged looks and giant size ushered in a new era of trucks.

For less than $5,000, you can pretty quickly pick up a solid 2nd generation Ram truck that will look awesome and do everything a truck does with ease.

There are a staggering number of engines and cab configurations, but the most capable and exciting option is the Magnum 5.9L V-8 and the Quad Cab body style. Owners love the capability, rugged looks, and overall solid reliability.

This is an excellent option for those looking for a larger truck that’s still priced under $5k. 

THE BEST USED MINIVANS ON THE MARKET

When it comes to hauling a lot of people and cargo, the minivan is hard to beat. We’ve factored in reliability, affordability, and functionality to create this curated list of the 8 best used minivans on the market today.

2004 Chevrolet Silverado 2500 HD

Photo of 2004 Chevrolet Silverado 2500 HD

Average Price Paid: $5000

Horsepower: 365 

Towing Capability: 12,000 lbs

Payload: 5500 lbs

The Silverado 2500 series represents the workhorse of the Silverado lineup.

These trucks are designed for hard duty as tow, work, or civic vehicles that are meant to take an absolute beating.

For civilian duty, these trucks showcase high tow ratings, high payload, and the ability to carry up to 6 people in complete comfort.

Reliability is solid from either the standard V-8 or optional Diesel V-8, and owners regularly see these vehicles hit over 300,000 miles with nothing but regular maintenance.

As a capable truck that still costs under $5k, this should be high on your list of choices.

Honorable Mentions

Here are more of the best used trucks under $5,000 that are worth checking out:

  • 2000 Toyota Tacoma – This one is a lot trickier since Toyota vehicles, including the Tacoma, hold their value very well over time. However, we did find plenty of used 2000 Tacoma trucks that are sold below $5,000, especially if you go for the base model. Look for a standard-cab two-wheel drive, and you’ll likely find what you’re looking for.
  • 2003 Ford F-150 – There’s a reason why the F-150 is the best-selling truck in the United States, and its excellence extends to its earlier versions. In this case, the 2003 Ford F-150 is one of the best bangs for your buck for a half-ton truck. Under $5,000, you may have to do a bit of searching to find an F-150 in good condition, but it’s out there.
  • 2002 Ford Explorer Sport Trac – The Ford Explorer Sport Trac was the little truck that could, and was sadly taken away from us too soon. It’s a light-duty truck but offers enough comfort and versatility and a robust V8 engine. For a price range of between $4,425 - $4,725, it’s an excellent option for trucks under $5,000.

The Easiest Way To Find Used Trucks Under $5k In Your Area

Looking for a cheap used truck sucks because most listings are rusted-out hunks of junk that you’d never sink your money into.

The CoPilot car shopping app was built to make shopping for a used car suck less. Please tell us what you’re looking for, and we’ll give you a personalized list of the best used trucks in your area - no need to look through hundreds of garbage listings.

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