The Worst Gas Pickup Trucks On the Market

When it comes to gas-powered pickup trucks, opinions on which ones are a total drain on your wallet can fire up quite the debate. We definitely don’t shy away from the tough conversations about which models just aren’t worth the cash.

But, let’s be clear, we’re not about hurling one-sided judgments. The truth is, what one driver might view as a money pit, another might see as a perfectly reasonable investment, depending on their needs and experiences. The auto world moves fast, with new models and upgrades hitting the market regularly. Today’s clunker could be tomorrow’s comeback kid.

So, while we’ll be pointing out some specific models based on their features and frequent faults, remember that the “waste of money” label is often in the eye of the beholder.

Gas Guzzlers

Let’s talk gas guzzlers, specifically the Ram 1500 TRX 4WD. This beast packs a supercharged 6.2-liter 8-cylinder engine, which sounds impressive until you realize it guzzles fuel like there’s no tomorrow, clocking in at a dismal 12 MPG combined city/highway.

In a time where fuel prices swing wildly, owning a truck with such thirst can drain your wallet fast. If you’re aiming for efficiency or just want to keep your fuel budget in check, this model might just burn a hole through your plans as fast as it burns through a tank of gas.

Pricey Features/Add-Ons

Let’s chat about those pricey extra features. You know, the ones that make you ask, “Do I really need this?” For instance, why shell out an additional $1,995 for a dual-headrest rear-seat DVD player in a 2016 Ford Explorer Limited when the kids are probably glued to their tablets anyway?

And roof racks? Sure, they look slick coming straight from the factory, but grabbing one from a local store not only saves cash but also gives you the flexibility to switch it between vehicles.

It’s frustrating when you see these add-ons priced steeply as optional when competitors might offer them as standard. It’s enough to make you feel like you’re not getting the full value for your buck.

Limited Utility

Ever come across a truck that just can’t handle the heavy lifting? For traditional truckers, a truck’s worth is measured by its muscle—towing capacity, payload prowess, and the like. Yet, there’s more to utility than just brute strength.

Consider models like the Ford Explorer Sport Trac and Ram 1500 Limited. Some might dismiss them as not tough enough for the hardest jobs, but they could be just right for someone who needs a truck that balances muscle with cost-efficiency.

Remember, a truck’s utility isn’t only about hauling. It’s also about how well it meets your specific needs, including cargo space, fuel efficiency, and off-road capability.

Old Tech

Ever wonder why some folks shy away from the Nissan Frontier, even the newer models? It boils down to tech—or the lack of it. While it might tick boxes for the basics, it’s trailing behind when you compare it to rivals packing the latest gadgets.

This isn’t just about having a few more buttons to press; it’s about integrating the technology seamlessly into your drive, something the Frontier struggles with. Sure, not everyone needs top-of-the-line tech, but if you’re doling out cash expecting the latest and greatest, the Frontier might leave you feeling a bit left behind.

Overpriced

It’s a tough pill to swallow when the price tag doesn’t match what you get, right? That’s the story with some big names like the Ram 1500 TRX, Ford F-150 Raptor, and GMC Hummer EV SUT. These models come with sky-high prices that many argue just aren’t justified by the features they offer.

In a world where even luxury buyers measure the bang for their buck, these trucks seem to miss the mark. If you’re spending big, you expect big—not just in size or power, but in value. And if a truck doesn’t stack up, it might just be a deal breaker.

Recalls and Safety Issues

Think being popular means you’re also perfect? Not quite. Take the Ford F-150, America’s top-selling truck—it also happens to hold the record for the most recalls: a staggering 95 to date. Just recently, Ford had to recall over 456,000 vehicles due to battery issues that could cause sudden power loss. W

hile these recalls don’t necessarily mean the F-150 isn’t safe—its crash test scores are solid, especially in front and side impacts—they do raise eyebrows. When you’re shopping for a reliable ride, frequent recalls might just be a big red flag telling you to look elsewhere.

Poor Reliability

If you’re eyeing the Chevrolet Silverado or its GMC Sierra twin, brace yourself for some potential headaches. These trucks have gained notoriety for their less-than-stellar reliability, earning the lowest possible score from Consumer Reports.

This poor rating shows real frustrations from owners dealing with finicky transmissions, unreliable brakes, and glitchy infotainment systems. When your truck is more often in the shop than on the road, it’s clear you’re dealing with a real money pit.

Low Resale Value

Thinking about selling your truck a few years down the road? You might want to think twice about which model you choose. The Ford F-150, for instance, is a hot item in the used car market, making up 3.6% of all used vehicle sales for models from 2016 to 2020 in the US as of 2021.

This contrasts sharply with some other models that depreciate quicker than you can say “sell.” With personal and commercial vehicle registrations rising by 3.5% between 2018 and 2022, it’s clear that a truck’s resale value matters—a lot. Opting for a model known for its swift depreciation is like throwing money away.