Looking for a used pickup in the $3-5K range ... what can you recommend and what should I steer clear of?

Question

Hey all! I'm thinking that for my next vehicle I could really use a truck. I'd need it to be pretty reliable and relatively fuel efficient though and my price range would be up to about $5K. I've seen mid-late 90s Rams, F150s and a few Silverados in that range and I've also been looking at Dakotas.

I drive about 10K miles a year, alot of which is just a 6 mile commute to work, and I like the idea of the storage in the back of a pickup, but I would be doing too much towing or anything like that.

If I get a fullsize, would a V6 be too underpowered? I don't really want a giant V8 (gas prices are pretty nuts!) but would a smaller V8 get decent mileage? What could I expect there? Have you had either good luck or a bad experience with the trucks i listed above?

I could really use some advice folks. Thanks!

Answer 1

Chevy S-10/15
GMC Sonoma
Either with V-6

I drive a fullsize Chevy 2500 and wish I had an S-10.
I almost never need the full hauling capacity, and 12mpg sucks.

Answer 2

Since I have never owned any truck newer than 1987, I will answer the power question.

A V6 truck should have adequate power for daily driving and light hauling. Anything more would require a larger displacement motor. I have owned a 6cyl truck (1981 Chevy 4.1L I-6 C-10) before, and it had plenty of power to haul camping gear in the bed, but not enough power to tow anything larger than a tent trailer or small utility trailer.

Answer 3

unless youre going to be doing lots of heavy duty towing, power shouldnt be an issue.

my advice is get your hands on an old tacoma or tundra. Theyre super indestructible, and also very affordable.

and a small truck is prob a better idea. better gas milage, and realistically, youll prob never need the full size one.