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SeaTracy's avatar
SeaTracy
Explorer
Jan 18, 2015

Used Truck - Opinions Needed

Hello,

I spent the better part of the last 6 months looking at class As for my family. However, I finally have decided that I just don't trust a class A traveling with more than 2 people, especially one in a car seat. We've now switched to looking at 5th wheels or travel trailers (most likely 5th wheel).

We don't currently have a vehicle that could tow a FW and I've never owned a pickup. I'm looking at used trucks in the 15k - 25k price range. This looks to put me in the 2003 - 2005 model years.

Does anyone have thoughts on trucks during these model years? Any to stay away from? We're planning on a crew cab with a long bed. Any general concerns with buying 10+ year old car to tow? We live in the NW, so will have to deal with mountains, rain and snow if that matters.

Thanks!

--Tracy

25 Replies

  • SeaTracy wrote:

    We don't currently have a vehicle that could tow a FW and I've never owned a pickup. I'm looking at used trucks in the 15k - 25k price range. This looks to put me in the 2003 - 2005 model years. -Tracy


    I believe you will have problems finding a low milage capable truck in that price range.
  • In addition to what the others have reported the 05 Duramax has been known for overheat issues (although my parents truck has never had this problem) and the 07.5-9 6.7 cummins suffered from soot clogging the EGR, turbo and DPF issue. The 6.4 PSD has regen issues that makes pour fuel economy.

    Good luck...
  • Any of the big 3 will work well although there were some issues with the Ford 6.0. Keep in mind that the vehicle is now ten years old, any problems should be resolved with the survivors.
    Be sure that the tow and pin weight capacity exceeds the loaded weight by at least 20%. Empty or shipping weight is meaningless. Also you mention a car, Washington does not allow double towing.
  • I would steer clear of the Fords in that vintage if buying diesel, but there are good deals on them with really low miles if you are willing to make some upgrades.

    You could probably find a 2006-07 Chev/GMC with the LBZ Duramax in that price range. When I was looking about six months ago I found 05-07 with mileage from 75,000--130,000 in that budget. Finding one that isn't beat to death is the hard part.