Best Used Trucks in Texas for 2024

What are the Best Used Trucks in Austin?

If this question, and subsequent fiery debate, sounds familiar, you’re in the right place. We love to talk about trucks. We could talk about the pros and cons of used trucks all day!

Is it gas mileage that counts most? Power? Durability? Or the ever important reliability?

A truck is important for us Texans. We need equipment that lasts through the grind of life out here. Public auto auction often has some of the most popular trucks in our inventory.

Best Used Trucks: An Overview

1. Toyota Tacoma 

The Toyota Tacoma is known for its reliability, making it a great choice for those who want a truck that will last. It boats good gas mileage, averaging 20-23 MPG combined. While it can be on the pricier side, especially for newer models, it's a good investment for those who want a dependable truck with a strong resale value.

2. Ford F-150

The Ford F-150 is a popular choice for millions, but especially those in need of a workhorse. It has a variety of engine options, including a turbocharged V6 that provides plenty of purring power. The gas mileage is still decent, for a truck, averaging 18-21 MPG combined. And if you’re worried about budget, there are always great deals on used F-150s.

Remember to bring a checklist when you come out to inspect!

3. Chevy Silverado

The Chevrolet Silverado is a reliable and capable truck with a variety of engine options, including a fuel-efficient 4-cylinder engine. It averages 18-20 MPG combined and makes for a good investment in a versatile truck.

4. Nissan Frontier

The Nissan Frontier is a reliable and affordable option for those who prioritize gas mileage. It averages 21-23 MPG combined, putting it near the top of the most fuel-efficient trucks on the market. It also has a lower price point than other trucks, making it easier for those on a budget looking for cheap-er used trucks.

5. Ram 1500

The Ram 1500 combines power and comfort with a variety of engine options, including a fuel-efficient diesel engine. It averages an attractive 19-23 MPG combined. If you value a smooth ride and are often hauling or pulling, this will do the job.

Things to do with Pickup Truck in Austin, Texas

When looking for good used trucks, it's important to consider your specific needs and preferences. Any Texan is familiar with the heat, and more recently, the freezing cold.

Your truck, and your maintenance routine, needs to account for that. Putting your truck indoors, scrubbing and scraping to keep the chill out, or carrying extra water to keep it cool are often called for.

The truck was built to work.

1. Hauling

If you are often towing horses, flatbeds, cars, gear, whatever, buy a truck with high capacity. Look for trucks with a powerful engine and a high tow rating. Ask around too, we don’t doubt that the Ford F-150, Chevrolet Silverado, and Dodge Ram 1500 will make the list.

2. 4-wheel drive

4-wheel drive trucks were built for the unpaved road! Look for trucks with a locking differential, which will help distribute power to all four wheels evenly. You’ll often find Toyota Tacomas and Nissan Frontiers tearing up ranch roads.

3. In the desert

Overheating is not the only worry. Icy temperatures have often caught Texans unprepared. A well-built and well-maintained truck is more likely to hold up. Popular blogs, like 15 Indestructible Vehicles, give great perspectives. The Toyota Tacoma and Chevrolet Silverado make a good case.

Best Used Trucks for Towing or Hauling

If you're looking for the best used diesel, heavy-duty trucks with powerful engines, frames, advanced towing features, and towing and hauling capabilities, here are several models that you should consider.

1. Ford F-250 and F-350 Super Duty

These trucks are built to handle heavy loads with ease, and they come with a range of diesel engine options, including the Power Stroke V8 diesel engine. They have advanced towing features like trailer sway control, integrated trailer brake controllers, and trailer reverse guidance, and they are capable of towing up to 24,200 pounds.

2. Chevrolet Silverado HD

The Silverado HD is a heavy-duty truck that is built to handle tough jobs. It comes with a range of diesel engine options, including the Duramax V8 turbo-diesel engine. It has advanced towing features like a trailering camera system and an available fifth-wheel/gooseneck prep package, and it can tow up to 36,000 pounds.

3. Ram 2500 and 3500 Heavy Duty

The Ram Heavy Duty trucks are built with powerful diesel engines and strong frames. They come with advanced towing features like trailer reverse guidance and a cargo view camera, and they are capable of towing up to 35,100 pounds.

4. GMC Sierra HD

The Sierra HD is a heavy-duty truck that is designed to handle heavy loads with ease. It comes with a range of diesel engine options, including the Duramax diesel engine, and it has features like an available ProGrade Trailering System and an available 15-camera view system. It is capable of towing up to 36,000 pounds.

Best Time to Buy a Used Truck

The best time to buy a used truck in Austin, Texas can vary based on things like the time of year and the individual seller's circumstances. Here are our 4 tips that may help you find a good deal:

1. End of the month and/or year:

Many dealerships have monthly, quarterly, and yearly quotas to meet, which means they may be more willing to negotiate on price when deadlines approach.

2. After major holidays:

Dealerships often run sales promotions around major holidays like Memorial Day, Labor Day, and Black Friday. Waiting until after these holidays can sometimes result in better deals on used trucks.

3. When new models are released:

When new models are released, dealerships may be looking to make room for the new inventory. This can be a good time to find deals on last year's models.

4. Private seller's circumstances:

If you are buying from a private seller, the best time to buy may be when the seller needs to sell quickly. This could be due to a variety of factors, such as a move or financial need.

If you're looking to sell your old truck, there are some great benefits to donating it to charity! 

Ultimately, the best time to buy a used truck will depend on your individual circumstances and the availability of trucks. It's always a good idea to do your research and shop around to find deals on used trucks. Additionally, be sure to have the truck inspected by a trusted mechanic before making a purchase to ensure that it is in good condition.

Why not create a bidder account? We support charity too! 😀

Best Used Trucks under $5000

We came up with 5 solid options for the best used trucks under $5,000. We suggest considering models that are a bit older and higher in mileage, but still well maintained.

Best Used Trucks under $10000

If your budget can rise to $10,000, you may be able to find newer models with less wear and tear.

There you have it! Our take on the best used trucks you can find around Austin, Texas, the best time to buy a used truck, the best used trucks for towing, and the best used trucks for budgets of $5,000 and $10,000. Read more about the best used trucks under $10,000 here.

A truck is a great option! Come by and see our selection of used trucks.

Public Auto Auction holds online auctions every Saturday at 10am!