Used American Full-Size Pickups for Work and PlayFord (Ford)These days, the most expensive full-size pickup trucks arguably have more in common with luxury sedans than their half-ton forebears from the 20th century. This is good news for folks who want to daily-drive one of these big machines. Alas, these additional comforts come at a cost. Literally. Brand-new full-size trucks with all the fixings wear price tags akin to bona fide luxury vehicles.Fortunately, the used-truck market offers an easy way to grab a full-size pickup in a grandiose guise for far less than a new one might set you back. The savings are even greater if you opt for the prior-generation model. While we respect half-ton trucks such as the Nissan Titan and Toyota Tundra as much as anyone else, we're keeping things simple by keeping the focus on previous-generation models from Chevrolet, Ford, and Ram. [Also see our Used Car Rankings to help you shop.]➡️ Skip the lot. Let Car and Driver help you find your next car.AdvertisementAdvertisementShop New Cars | Shop Used Cars2009–2010 Dodge Ram 1500 / 2011–2018 Ram 1500 / 2019–2024 Ram 1500 ClassicThe previous-generation Ram 1500 went by nearly as many different names as Bowie. After arriving for 2009 as a member of the Dodge family, the truck ditched the Dodge branding and broke off into its own brand beginning with the 2011 model year. But the outgoing Ram 1500 had one last trick up its sleeve.With the reveal of the current-generation Ram 1500 for 2019, the American truck and van brand decided to keep the party going for the prior truck. Beginning in 2019, the old 1500 soldiered on as the 1500 Classic up until the 2024 model year.So, if you want the outgoing Ram in Dodge guise, search for used 2009 Dodge Ram 1500s to used 2010 Dodge Ram 1500s. Want one of the newer 1500 Classics? Then search for used 2019 Ram 1500 Classics to used 2024 Ram 1500 Classics. Not interested in the "Dodge" or "Classic" badging? Then look for used 2011 Ram 1500s to used 2018 Ram 1500s.AdvertisementAdvertisementNo matter the trim, every 1500 of this era (eras?) drives with maturity courtesy of its coil-spring rear suspension. While equipment levels vary, only the lowliest of 1500 trims give off strong penny-pinching vibes. Expect to spend north of $10,000 for a decently equipped Dodge Ram 1500, Ram 1500, or Ram 1500 Classic with fewer than 100,000 miles on the clock. Plan to drop closer to $20,000 for a higher-end 1500 with similar mileage.SHOP RAM 1500Ram (Ram)2013–2018 Chevrolet Silverado 1500The third-generation Chevrolet Silverado, meaning used 2013 Chevy Silverado 1500s to used 2018 Chevy Silverado 1500s, introduced the model's near-flagship trim. Dubbed High Country, this guise brought plush leather seats, wood trim, heated and cooled front seats, a raft of safety features, and copious amounts of chrome trim.Plan to drop at least $22,000 on a reasonably nice Silverado 1500 High Country of this generation. If you're willing to forgo some of the High Country's ritz, then you can find lower-spec guises of this truck for well under $20,000.AdvertisementAdvertisementSHOP CHEVROLET SILVERADO 1500Chris Doane Automotive (Chris Doane Automotive)2015–2020 Ford F-150Given the evolutionary styling of the current-generation Ford F-150, previous-generation trucks, meaning used 2015 Ford F-150s to used 2020 Ford F-150s, still look reasonably fresh. Ford fitted a variety of powertrains under the hoods of outgoing F-150s, including two turbocharged V-6 engines, a V-8, and a diesel option, the latter of which was added for 2018. This generation of F-150 was also the first to feature an aluminum body.If you're willing to forgo the basics, then you can pick up a no-nonsense F-150 in XL guise with fewer than 100,000 miles for about $12,000 these days. Opt for a better-equipped F-150 Lariat, Platinum, or King Ranch, and you're looking at writing a check for at least $20,000.SHOP FORD F-150Marc Urbano - Car and Driver (Marc Urbano - Car and Driver)Tips and InsightsGet a Pre-Purchase InspectionAdvertisementAdvertisementThe best thing you can do before purchasing a used vehicle is have a pre-purchase inspection (or PPI) done. It's a simple process: find and pay a local mechanic to give the vehicle you're considering a lookover to ensure there are no hidden issues. It's a small price to pay for peace of mind.Get a Vehicle History ReportThe second-best thing you can do before purchasing a used vehicle is to get its history report. Make sure there are no mileage discrepancies or major car accidents on record that could jeopardize the vehicle's value or safety. Be sure to get under any used car if possible. You'll want to make sure there's no sign of rust setting in. Be sure to look and feel under the wheel wells too.Car and Driver (Car and Driver)You Might Also LikeAdvertisementAdvertisementGift Guide: Best Ride-On Electric Cars for KidsFuture Cars Worth Waiting For: 2025–2029