Gasoline-powered trucks have been a market stalwart, whereas diesel trucks have been shunned. However, diesel trucks are becoming increasingly popular due to the multiple benefits they provide. For one thing, diesel trucks are more fuel efficient than gasoline trucks because diesel contains more energy per gallon than gasoline. Diesel pickups are around 20% more thermally efficient than gasoline pickups, therefore they have better power and torque figures.
Furthermore, diesel pickups are typically more dependable and durable than gasoline pickups. Because diesel engines are often gear-driven, the likelihood of components failing is quite low. So, if you are in the market for a diesel truck built like a tank, you will find this article very helpful.
Most Reliable Diesel Pickup Trucks
1. 2018 Ford F-150
The Ford F-150 has been selling well for decades, and with the addition of diesel engine, the Blue Oval automaker’s fortunes have improved significantly. The 2018 F-150 is available with six different engines, including a 2.7-liter EcoBoost and a 3.0-liter V6 Powerstroke diesel.
The diesel engine is connected to a 10-speed transmission. Even though the engine is a little noisier than gas-powered options, the old diesel rattling doesn’t make its way into the cabin. The Ford F-150 engine should last for over 20 years or 300,000 miles before needing to be rebuilt.
2. 2020 Chevrolet Silverado 1500
The 2020 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 and its sibling, the GMC Sierra 1500, are well-engineered pickups with strong performance and capable handling. They both use the same 3.0-liter Duramax turbo-diesel engines, which provide ample power and towing capacity for light-duty clients.
Chevrolet reduces the weight of the Silverado 1500 while increasing its size. It has the highway fuel economy you’d expect from a family car. With regular care, the Chevrolet Silverado 1500 should last much longer than 20 years or 300,000 miles. The Silverado 1500 receives an 8.5 out of 10 reliability rating from iSeeCars.
3. 2020 GMC Sierra 1500
The 2020 GMC Sierra 1500 diesel truck was created with durability, efficiency, and power in mind. The GMC crew outfitted the vehicle with a “no excuses” 3.0-liter Duramax diesel inline-six engine. According to the GMC team’s Assistant Chief Engineer, the 2020 Sierra 1500 has a good fuel efficiency of 22/26 MPG city/highway, as well as excellent throttle response and a maximum towing capacity of 9,000 pounds.
GMC put the Sierra 1500 through rigorous testing in the roughest terrain and weather situations to assure its durability. The truck was tested in Death Valley, Eastern California, during the hottest months of the year, as well as in one of Canada’s coldest regions. iSeeCars scores the GMC Sierra 1500 8.4 out of 10 for reliability.
4. 2017 Nissan Titan XD
The advent of the Nissan Titan XD effectively altered truck classification and placed Nissan’s Extra Duty pickup in a class of its own. The Nissan Titan XD is a truck that sits halfway between a three-quarter-ton and a half-ton, and for the 2017 model year, consumers have the choice of a diesel engine.
The Cummins diesel engine produces 310 horsepower and 555 lb-ft of torque. The diesel engine in the Titan XD is powerful, with a life expectancy of at least 300,000 kilometres.
5. 2020 Ford F-350 Super Duty
While GM and Ram unveiled entirely new HD trucks in 2020, Ford only improved the power and towing capability of its Super Duty series. Of course, the 2020 Super Duty will still be available in a variety of desired configurations for consumers to pick from.
The massive 6.7-liter Powerstroke V8 produces 475 horsepower and a class-leading 1050 pound-feet of torque. When it comes to durability, the Ford F-350 Super Duty should go well over 300,000 miles.
6. 2018 Dodge Ram 3500
The most significant change for the 2018 Ram Heavy Duty truck is an additional 30 lb-ft of torque from the 6.7-liter Cummins inline-six turbo-diesel engine. The 2018 Ram 3500 HD goes to the top of the class with a torque rating of 930 lb-ft.
Ram upped the turbo boost limits and fuel flow for the Ram 3500 truck. The 6.7-liter Cummins engine is dependable and efficient. The Ram 3500 Cummins diesel truck has a life expectancy of up to 350,000 kilometres.
7. 1993 Dodge W250
The Dodge W250 trucks made from 1991 to 1993 are quickly becoming collector’s items, owing to their dependability and vintage appearance. The 1993 Dodge W250 is powered by a 5.9-liter Cummins engine that produces over 160 hp and 400 lb-ft of torque. The nearly three-decade-old diesel tractor is available for less than $20,000.
The 5.9-liter inline-6 Cummins engine produced nearly twice the torque of Dodge’s V8 gas engines. The 5.9L Cummins engine was far ahead of its time, with direct fuel injection and a turbocharger that significantly improved drivability and towing performance.
8. 2007 Chevrolet 3500HD
The 2007 Chevy Silverado 3500HD has been overhauled to address the previous generation’s low-budget interior atmosphere. When you first step inside the truck, you’ll notice higher-quality materials that give this workhorse the sense of a luxury vehicle. The Chevy diesel pickup is powered by a 6.6-liter Duramax LBZ engine that produces 360 horsepower and 650 pound-feet of torque.
The LBZ is likely the most coveted Duramax engine, and it is well recognised for its absence of pollution restrictions and great performance straight out of the factory. The Duramax LBZ engine can travel 300,000 miles before needing major repairs.
9. 2000 Ford F-250 Super Duty
The Ford F-250 is a true workhorse with the attitude to tackle difficult terrain. The cabin is cosy, and the bed is spacious. The 2000 F-250 Super Duty is outfitted with a 7.3-liter Powerstroke engine, which contains all of the ingredients for a long-lasting diesel engine. The F-250 Super Duty can serve you for up to 500,000 miles if properly maintained.
The lack of emissions restrictions is a crucial reason for the 7.3-liter Powerstroke’s longevity. To meet emissions guidelines, the engine uses computer calibration and a catalytic converter in the exhaust system. Thanks to this arrangement, the 7.3-liter Powerstroke is not susceptible to problems like contaminated engine oil and cracked EGR cooler, which the 6.0-liter Powerstroke had to deal with.
10. 2007 Dodge Ram 2500
The Dodge Ram 2500 is built to handle difficult duties while providing above-average quality in its interior components. The steering is light on the 2007 Ram 2500, and the ride is reasonably comfortable. The optional 5.9-liter Cummins engine generates 325 horsepower and 610 pound-feet of torque.
The 12-valve Cummins engine is designed for fuel efficiency and longevity. The engine of the 2007 Ram 2500 will endure between 300,000 and 400,000 miles. The 5.9-liter Cummins’ straightforward design makes it very simple to work on, and aftermarket components are widely accessible.
