Top 5 Used Trucks to Buy in the Twin Cities
Minnesota trucks work hard: road salt, sub-zero starts, boat trailers in July and snowblowers in January. Here are the five used pickups we recommend shortlisting, backed by independent dependability data, plus what to check before you buy one in Rogers, MN.
What is the most reliable used truck to buy?
In J.D. Power's 2026 U.S. Vehicle Dependability Study, which surveys original owners of three-year-old (2023 model year) vehicles, the Ram 1500 ranked first among large light-duty pickups, the Chevrolet Silverado 1500 ranked second, and the Ford F-150 and GMC Sierra 1500 tied for third. In the 2025 study, the Silverado and Sierra led the segment. For most Twin Cities buyers, a 2019-or-newer Silverado 1500 is our top all-around pick because of its consistent dependability results, four engine choices over its run (including a diesel), and strong local parts and service support.
What the Reliability Data Says
Dependability rankings shift year to year, so look at the pattern, not just one headline.
J.D. Power's Vehicle Dependability Study (VDS) measures problems reported over the past 12 months by original owners of three-year-old vehicles. Results are scored in problems per 100 vehicles (PP100). A lower score is better.
| Segment Rank | Truck | Brand Score (PP100, lower is better) |
|---|---|---|
| 1st | Ram 1500 | Ram: 216 |
| 2nd | Chevrolet Silverado 1500 | Chevrolet: 178 |
| 3rd (tie) | Ford F-150 | Ford: 228 |
| 3rd (tie) | GMC Sierra 1500 | GMC: 229 |
Two takeaways matter for used-truck shoppers. First, Chevrolet posted the best brand-level score of the four major truck brands, even though the Ram 1500 won the segment this year. Second, the study found gas-powered vehicles had fewer problems on average (198 PP100) than hybrids, plug-in hybrids, or EVs, which is worth weighing if you plan to keep a truck long-term.
Brand scores cover each brand's full lineup, not just its pickup. Source: J.D. Power 2026 U.S. Vehicle Dependability Study, as reported by SlashGear/Yahoo Autos and MoparInsiders.
The Top 5 Used Trucks for Twin Cities Drivers
Listed by how often we recommend them for Minnesota towing, commuting, and winter driving, not by a single ranking.
1. Chevrolet Silverado 1500 (2019 and newer)
Best for: Buyers who want one truck for commuting, towing, and Minnesota winters.
- Ranked second in the 2026 J.D. Power VDS large light-duty pickup segment, after GM's half-tons led the 2025 study.
- Chevrolet says its available Duramax 3.0L turbo-diesel is currently the only diesel in the half-ton class. Current models tow up to 13,300 lbs when properly equipped.
- Bed dimensions have stayed the same since 2019, so accessories like tonneau covers and bed liners carry over across model years.
2. GMC Sierra 1500 (2019 and newer)
Best for: Silverado mechanicals with a more upscale look and cabin.
- Tied for third in the 2026 VDS segment and shared the lead with Silverado in 2025.
- Shares its platform, bed sizes, and core engines with the Silverado, so parts and service knowledge overlap.
3. Ford F-150
Best for: Shoppers who want the widest selection of used configurations.
- Tied for third in the 2026 VDS segment.
- Uses an aluminum-alloy body, and 2021-and-newer models offer a PowerBoost hybrid option.
4. Ram 1500
Best for: Drivers who put ride comfort first.
- Ranked first in the 2026 VDS large light-duty pickup segment, based on 2023 models.
- Uses a coil-spring rear suspension instead of leaf springs, with an available air suspension.
5. Chevrolet Colorado (2023 and newer)
Best for: Easier parking in Minneapolis and St. Paul, with enough capability for a small boat or camper.
- Redesigned for 2023 with a 2.7L turbocharged four-cylinder in three outputs.
- Tows up to 7,700 lbs with the Turbo Plus or High-Output engine (6,000 lbs on the ZR2).
- Every 2023+ Colorado is a crew cab with a short bed.
Wondering how Chevy's pickup compares with the Toyota Tundra and the rest of the segment? See our Silverado vs. F-150 vs. Ram vs. Tundra comparison.
Used Silverado vs. Used F-150: Key Differences
Both are strong used buys. The differences come down to materials, powertrains, and how you'll use the truck.
| Factor | Chevrolet Silverado 1500 | Ford F-150 |
|---|---|---|
| 2026 J.D. Power VDS (segment) | 2nd | 3rd (tie) |
| Bed construction | Durabed of roll-formed high-strength steel | Aluminum-alloy body and bed |
| Diesel option | Duramax 3.0L turbo-diesel available | Diesel discontinued after the 2021 model year |
| Hybrid option | Not offered | PowerBoost hybrid (2021 and newer) |
| Best fit | High-mileage highway towing and cold-weather work use | Buyers who want a hybrid or the widest configuration choice |
For a deeper, spec-by-spec breakdown, read our Silverado 1500 vs. Ford F-150 comparison. Planning to tow? Check exact ratings by engine and configuration in our Silverado 1500 towing capacity guide.
Minnesota Used-Truck Buying Checklist
Winter and road salt are hard on trucks. These checks matter more here than in warmer states.
Inspect the Underbody
Road salt accelerates corrosion. Look at the frame, brake lines, rocker panels, and hitch receiver, not just the paint.
Confirm 4WD Works
Test every 4WD mode, including 4-Low, on the test drive. Listen for grinding or clunking when the transfer case engages.
Match the Tow Rating
Towing capacity depends on engine, axle ratio, cab, and bed. Check the truck's actual rating before you buy for a boat or camper.
Review the History
Ask for the vehicle history report and service records. One-owner trucks with documented maintenance are worth prioritizing.
Want certified peace of mind? Learn about CarBravo, GM's certified pre-owned program, browse CARFAX one-owner vehicles, or see how we set prices in Miller Chevrolet's guide to used and CPO value.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the most reliable used truck to buy?
Which used Silverado years should I look at?
Is a used Silverado or used F-150 better?
Do I need 4WD for a truck in Minnesota?
Does Miller Chevrolet sell used trucks from other brands?
Find Your Next Used Truck in Rogers
Browse used pickups at Miller Chevrolet, get your trade valued online, and schedule a test drive when you're ready.