What are the most reliable pickup and classic trucks?

When you buy a pickup truck, you probably expect it to be durable and dependable, but you may not expect it to become a classic. However, the most reliable old trucks run decades after coming off the assembly line and are still sought after today. So, you can have a reliable vehicle that could one day become a classic. Here’s a list of some of the longest-lasting trucks that are also collectible.

Most reliable classic trucks

1992-1997 Ford F-Series pickup

Ford F-Series pickups have been the best-selling trucks in the country since 1977. If you take care of them, these long-lasting trucks can run for decades, reaching 200,000 miles or more. Models 25+ years old are sturdy enough to be your daily driver, unlike other classic cars you can buy but only drive occasionally. Readily available parts make it easy to turn one of these classic pickups into a hot rod.

These modern classics have become a hot commodity recently, appreciating by 98%. According to Hagerty, the price tag for a 1992-1997 Ford F-Series pickup increased from $14,247 to $28,268 from January 2021 to January 2022. Learn more about cars that appreciate the most in value.

1963-1987 Jeep J-Series

The Jeep J-Series is a good bet for reliability and collectibility if you like off-roading. Because the Jeep is such a popular vehicle, it’s easy to get replacement parts, making maintaining your classic car a breeze. If you plan to use your Jeep as your everyday vehicle, stick with model years 1974 and later — as they’re durable vehicles. After a big spike in cost during 2021, the 1963-1987 Jeep J-Series now exceeds the value of the popular Jeep Cherokee. Prices nearly doubled, increasing from $15,926 to $30,250 from early 2021 to the beginning of 2022.

1981-1993 Dodge D/W Series

The 1981-1993 Dodge D-Series was the first-generation Dodge Ram. Known for being tough and dependable, the D/W series of trucks got a makeover in 1981. The newer models included features we take for granted today, such as better seat belts, FM radio, and cruise control. They also featured more power and better electrical systems. These reliable class trucks saw a sharp uptick in value in 2021, increasing 78% from $13,100 to $23,289.

1984-1989 Toyota pickup

Toyota’s classic pickup truck may still be one of its most reliable and best, capable of running for 200,000 to 300,000 miles. The company’s first-generation pickup arrived on the scene in the late 60s, and the trucks produced from 1984-1989 were fourth- and fifth-generation models. Although Toyota no longer makes its classic pickup, they remain popular today. That may be why the 1984-1989 models nearly doubled in value during 2021, increasing from $10,797 to $20,622.

1967-72 Chevrolet C/K pickup

The 1967-1972 Chevrolet C/K pickup is one of the most reliable classic trucks you can drive. They’re durable and reliable enough to be your everyday vehicle — even 50 years after Chevy manufactured them. Plus, they’re easy to drive and more comfortable than other early-stage pickups. There isn’t a limited supply, so this pickup remains an affordable classic car for budget-conscious enthusiasts. You can easily find parts to update your pickup, making them easy and cheap to maintain.

However, they’re popular enough that values for many models increased in the last year. For example, the price of a 1968 Chevrolet C30 in good condition rose by nearly 70% ($16,700 to $28,300) from May 2021 to April 2022, according to Hagerty. The most collectible models are those with unique feature combinations.

Get your classic truck ready for the road

If buying a classic car is right for you, learn more about the most reliable classic cars. Don’t forget to purchase classic truck insurance to protect your vehicle. Progressive classic car insurance by Hagerty can insure classic trucks 15 years and older. You’ll have to meet certain criteria about your truck’s usage, storage, and driver eligibility.