Car Buyer Labs

Car Buying Advice, Tips, and Reviews

A used diesel truck, a white 2018 Chevy Silverado 2500HD with a trailer, is parked in front of construction equipment moving dirt piles.

Our Favorite Used Diesel Trucks

Sometimes it’s hard to get the sound of a mighty diesel engine out of your head. The roar of its power coming to life under the hood, combined with its durability and efficiency out on the road, make diesel trucks highly sought after among many. A common misconception when it comes to diesel trucks is that they’re too expensive, leading many truck lovers to opt-out and buy a truck with a traditional engine instead, but this couldn’t be further from the truth. Not only can you find an ideal truck with everything you want and more, you can find it for a great price too. When it comes to used diesel trucks, we have a few favorites that we’d like to talk about and hopefully help you narrow down your selection and get the pickup truck you’ve always wanted.

Why Buy a Used Diesel Truck?

Before we get into our list of favorites, let’s discuss why buying a used diesel truck is a better choice than buying new. First of all, you’re able to get more truck for your money by buying used, which means that all those features and options that you once thought were out of reach are actually quite possible now. Once depreciation takes its toll on a vehicle, that vehicle is now much more affordable than it once was, yet it’s the same vehicle with the same cool features that you were admiring before. Now, it’s within your price range, making your dreams of owning a diesel truck a reality.

By opting for a diesel truck, you’re not only getting increased power, you’re also getting enhanced efficiency since diesel engines are much more fuel-efficient than their gas counterparts. Now that you know a durable, reliable, high-performance truck is an option for you, it’s important to note that not all used diesel trucks are viewed equally. There are some options that outperform the competition when it comes to resale value, capabilities, and options. So, if you’re shopping for a used diesel truck, here are some of our favorites.

Chevy Silverado HD

It’s no surprise that Chevy occupies the top spots when it comes to diesel trucks. With a trusted track record of designing durable trucks built for the long haul, Chevy has made a name for itself in the industry. First up in our list of favorite used diesel trucks is the Silverado HD. Known for its monstrous maximum trailering capability of over 35,000 lbs when properly outfitted, the Silverado HD is a truck lover’s dream come true. Its fierce Duramax 6.6L Turbo-Diesel V8 provides it with all the power you need to make the most of your workday and handle any task with the utmost efficiency, and with a variety of cab and bed sizes, you’re sure to find the right model for your needs.

Throughout the years, the Silverado HD has become more powerful, more capable, and an even better work companion than ever before, so it’s no surprise that more and more of them are popping up on job sites everywhere. Perhaps what sets the Silverado HD apart from the rest is the abundance of convenience features you can expect to find in this well-built truck. Interior storage options to stay organized, advanced trailering technology to make the most out of your haul, and one of the most durable beds in its class put this model above the rest. With impressive towing and hauling capabilities, a strong engine, and everything you need to make your job easier, the Silverado HD is the ideal work truck, weekend warrior, or everyday commuter.

A blue 2019 Chevy Silverado 1500 diesel is driving on a highway.

Chevy Silverado 1500

Another Chevy model makes it onto our favorite used diesel trucks lineup: the Chevy Silverado 1500. With its Duramax 3.0L Turbo-Diesel, the Silverado 1500 isn’t just a strong option for performance and capabilities. It’s also extremely fuel-efficient, getting an exceptional 23 MPG city and 33 MPG highway, which places it among the best in its class. And if technology and connectivity are what you’re searching for, the Silverado delivers, even if you’re looking at models that are a couple of years old. Many include tech features like Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and more to make your time behind the wheel more connected. Chevy delivers a reliable truck in the Silverado, making it the perfect choice for those who may not need the intense power that the HD models exude but are still looking for a sturdy, durable and capable truck.

Ford F-250

We’re sure you’re not shocked that Ford has made its way onto this list, especially due to its age-old rivalry with Chevy to build the most capable pickup trucks available. One of the best options, if you’re looking for a used diesel truck, is the Ford F-250, which features a Power Stroke V8 Turbo-Diesel, capable of outstanding torque. Claiming to be able to out-tow and out-haul any other truck in its class, the F-250 is pure muscle and worthy of a spot on our list.

Its strong diesel engine makes it able to tow and haul more, perform better, and be an outright stronger option than many of its competitors. With its reinforced suspension system, ultra-strong frame, and off-road packages available, Ford proves that it still has a hand in the game when it comes to some of the best used diesel trucks around. Throughout the years, Ford has expanded its offerings to include more capable machines, perfect for everyday work or weekends on the trails. If you’re looking for a truck to maintain its value and perform well into the high mileage range, Ford will not disappoint.

A red 2018 Ford F-250 Super Duty diesel is driving in mud in front of construction equipment.

Ram 1500

Ram has always been a strong name in the truck game, which means that its spot on our list is well-deserved. Equipped with a 3.0L Ecodiesel V6 engine, the 1500 impresses with a towing capacity of over 12,000 lbs. With recent redesigns throughout the last couple of years, the Ram 1500 has just gotten better and better with age. The great part about buying a used Ram 1500 is that you still get to take advantage of all the power and prowess that it emits while enjoying various tech and safety options that you’d pay a hefty price for if buying new. No matter if you’re looking at a newer model or a model that’s a few years old, you can still expect extreme power, precision, and control behind the wheel, making the Ram 1500 an ideal choice for those looking for a reliable light-duty truck.

The Perfect Used Diesel Trucks

As you can see, diesel engines are not only more fuel-efficient; they provide enhanced power and capability, which allows these trucks to outperform the competition. From the heavy-duty power in the Silverado HD and the equally-impressive Silverado 1500 to the timeless appeal of the F-250 and the confidence of the Ram 1500, you’ve got options when it comes to finding the ideal used diesel truck for you.

Not sure which truck to pick? When it comes to our top picks, nothing can beat Chevy and its Silverado and Silverado HD models. It’s no secret that both options showcase ultimate power and performance, coupled with industry-leading options to increase productivity in your workday or prowess on the trails, making these options extremely versatile. So, if you’re in the market for a new truck, we recommend taking a trip to your local Chevy dealer to test drive one of these impressive models today. You’ll be in awe at the sheer power that comes from their fierce engines, comfortability with their roomy interiors, and the abundance of options to make your journey better in every way.