Midsize trucks are the backbone of American roads, serving a diverse range of needs from demanding job sites to adventurous outdoor excursions. For truck owners, reliability isn’t just a perk—it’s a necessity. Considering the robust engines and heavy-duty tasks these vehicles undertake, unexpected repairs can be costly and disruptive. Peace of mind comes from knowing your truck is dependable, mile after mile.
In this comprehensive guide, we delve into the 2024 midsize truck market to identify the models that stand out for their reliability. Drawing upon extensive data on ownership costs, maintenance needs, repair probabilities, and powertrain performance, we present a ranking of the top contenders. Our analysis incorporates insights from respected industry sources including iSeeCars, J.D. Power, Kelley Blue Book, Edmunds, RepairPal, CarEdge, and Consumer Reports, ensuring you receive the most accurate and up-to-date reliability assessments. Please note that the trucks are ranked from the model with the potentially lowest reliability to the highest.
7. 2024 Jeep Gladiator
Reliability Score: Not Yet Tested
The 2024 Jeep Gladiator caters to those who crave off-road adventures akin to the Jeep Wrangler, combined with the utility of a truck bed. While its adventurous spirit is undeniable, and it excels on trails, its on-road refinement and predicted reliability are areas to consider when compared to other midsize pickups.
Reliability
While direct reliability ratings from iSeeCars are pending for the 2024 Gladiator, we can examine other reputable sources to gauge its dependability. Consumer Reports provides a predicted reliability score of 40 out of 100 for the 2024 Gladiator, suggesting it may not be among the most reliable in its class. CarEdge data indicates a 35.84% chance of requiring a major repair within the first decade of ownership, a higher probability compared to many competitors. Furthermore, maintenance costs are projected to be above average for a pickup truck.
- Average Yearly Maintenance Cost: $617.60 (CarEdge)
- Est. Maintenance Cost During The First 10 Years: $11,803 (CarEdge)
- Total Recalls: 0
- Worst Gladiator Year To Buy Used: 2020
Performance
| Engine | 3.6-Liter Naturally Aspirated V-6 |
|---|---|
| Transmission | 6-Speed Manual or 8-Speed Automatic |
| Horsepower | 285 HP |
| Torque | 260 LB-FT |
| Driveline | 4WD |
| Towing Capacity | 4500 lbs |
| Payload Capacity | 1159 lbs |
The Gladiator’s 3.6-liter V-6 engine, while capable, is showing its age, and the previously available diesel option is no longer offered. This powertrain impacts its towing and payload capacities, placing it behind some rivals in these metrics. However, the Gladiator’s core appeal lies in its exceptional off-road prowess. Its impressive approach and departure angles, coupled with available off-roading equipment, make it a standout choice for trail enthusiasts. While recent upgrades like a 12.3-inch infotainment touchscreen enhance daily usability, its on-pavement driving experience might not be as polished as some competitors. Notably, 2024 marks the final year for the manual transmission in the Gladiator, appealing to purists before Jeep shifts to automatic-only models.
6. 2024 Nissan Frontier
Reliability Score: 8.3/10
The Nissan Frontier underwent a significant transformation starting in 2022, bridging the gap to modern expectations after a long period with minimal updates. While retaining its robust steel ladder frame, the current Frontier boasts a refreshed exterior, updated interior, and contemporary technology. For 2024, Nissan introduced the Hardbody Edition, a nod to the iconic Nissan Hardbody pickup, adding a touch of retro styling.
Reliability
The Nissan Frontier achieves a respectable reliability score of 8.3/10, aligning it with the Chevrolet Colorado and GMC Canyon. Its lower-than-average yearly maintenance costs for the midsize truck segment, combined with an attractive starting price, enhance its value proposition. However, CarEdge data indicates a 25.58% chance of requiring a major repair within the first 10 years, a point to consider despite its generally solid reliability.
- Average Yearly Maintenance Cost: $470 (RepairPal)
- Est. Maintenance Cost During The First 10 Years: $8,854 (CarEdge)
- Total Recalls: 3 (Missing headlight aim marking, ball joint separation risk, and potential airbag malfunction)
- Worst Frontier Year To Buy Used: 2005
Performance
| Engine | 3.8-Liter Naturally Aspirated V-6 |
|---|---|
| Transmission | 9-Speed Automatic |
| Horsepower | 310 HP |
| Torque | 281 LB-FT |
| Driveline | RWD/4WD |
| Towing Capacity | 6720 lbs |
| Payload Capacity | 1610 lbs |
The 2024 Frontier is powered exclusively by a potent 3.8-liter V-6 engine producing 310 horsepower. Buyers can choose between standard rear-wheel drive or optional four-wheel drive. While its towing capacity falls slightly short of competitors like the Ford Ranger and GMC Canyon, the Frontier’s competitive entry price and comprehensive list of standard features make it a compelling choice. A range of trim levels caters to different needs and budgets, with each step up adding more features and equipment.
5. 2024 GMC Canyon
Reliability Score: 8.3/10
The GMC Canyon shares its mechanical foundation with the Chevrolet Colorado, yet distinguishes itself by incorporating features and design cues from its full-size sibling, the Sierra. This approach results in a robust and highly capable midsize truck that blends strength with refined features.
Reliability
The GMC Canyon also secures a reliability score of 8.3 out of 10 from iSeeCars, mirroring the Colorado. However, CarEdge estimates a 26.25% likelihood of a major repair within the first decade of ownership, slightly higher than some competitors. On a positive note, maintenance costs over the first 10 years are projected to be less expensive compared to many popular pickups, offering potential long-term savings.
- Average Yearly Maintenance Cost: $465.60 (CarEdge)
- Est. Maintenance Cost During The First 10 Years: $8,778 (CarEdge)
- Total Recalls: 0
- Worst Canyon Year To Buy Used: 2015
Performance
| Engine | 2.7-Liter Turbocharged Inline-Four |
|---|---|
| Transmission | 8-Speed Automatic |
| Horsepower | 310 HP |
| Torque | 430 LB-FT |
| Driveline | RWD or 4WD |
| Towing Capacity | 7,700 lbs |
| Payload Capacity | 1,600 lbs |
Similar to the Gladiator, the GMC Canyon no longer offers a diesel engine option. The sole engine choice is a 2.7-liter turbocharged inline-four, which impressively delivers more power than many midsize truck rivals. Available in rear-wheel or four-wheel drive configurations, the Canyon exclusively uses an 8-speed automatic transmission. Despite its four-cylinder engine, the Canyon boasts a strong towing capacity. GMC has significantly upgraded the Canyon’s interior, integrating modern technology such as underbody cameras, a head-up display, and climate control. The inclusion of an 11.3-inch infotainment screen adds to its contemporary appeal. For off-road enthusiasts, the Canyon offers capable variants, including the AT4X and the new AEV Edition for 2024, which further enhances its trail-ready features with skid plates, steel bumpers, and specialized off-road wheels and tires.
4. 2024 Chevrolet Colorado
Reliability Score: 8.3/10
The Chevrolet Colorado is engineered to be equally proficient on paved roads and rugged terrains. While sharing a platform with the GMC Canyon, the Colorado possesses distinct characteristics in terms of styling, available configurations, and reliability nuances. Chevrolet has infused its own brand identity into this midsize truck, creating a unique offering in the segment.
Reliability
Despite the close mechanical relationship with the Canyon and the shared iSeeCars reliability score of 8.3/10, the Chevrolet Colorado presents some differences in reliability metrics. CarEdge data suggests slightly higher maintenance costs compared to the Canyon and a 29.99% chance of requiring a major repair in the first decade, placing it slightly lower in predicted long-term reliability compared to its GMC counterpart and some other pickups.
- Average Yearly Maintenance Cost: $599 (RepairPal)
- Est. Maintenance Cost During The First 10 Years: $9,910 (CarEdge)
- Total Recalls: 0
- Worst Colorado Year To Buy Used: 2015/2016
Performance
| Engine | 2.7-Liter Turbocharged Inline-Four | 2.7-Liter Turbocharged Inline-Four |
|---|---|---|
| Transmission | 8-Speed Automatic | 8-Speed Automatic |
| Horsepower | 237 HP | 310 HP |
| Torque | 260 LB-FT | 430 LB-FT |
| Driveline | RWD or 4WD | RWD or 4WD |
| Towing Capacity | 3,500 lbs | 7,700 lbs |
| Payload Capacity | 1,600 lbs | 1,600 lbs |
Like the GMC Canyon, the Chevrolet Colorado has transitioned to an all four-cylinder engine lineup, with the diesel option discontinued. The Colorado utilizes a 2.7-liter turbocharged inline-four, but offers it in two output levels. While the Canyon exclusively offers the high-output version, some Colorado trims come with a 237-horsepower variant. However, the more powerful 310-horsepower engine is available across the Colorado range as an upgrade. This engine strategy allows the Colorado to achieve a lower starting price point than the Canyon, enhancing its accessibility. Similar to the Canyon, the Colorado also benefits from aftermarket enhancements from American Expedition Vehicles (AEV), culminating in the ZR2 Bison model. This even more off-road focused version boasts wider wheel arches and 35-inch Mud Terrain tires, exceeding the capabilities of the standard ZR2.
3. 2024 Ford Ranger
Reliability Score: 8.9/100
The Ford Ranger stands as the highest-ranked American-made midsize pickup for reliability on our list. This position is consistent with Ford’s strong performance in the pickup truck market in recent years. The Ranger underwent a significant redesign for the 2024 model year, adopting a bolder aesthetic inspired by the full-size Ford F-150, further solidifying its presence in the competitive segment.
Reliability
The 2024 Ford Ranger achieves a high reliability score of 8.9/100 from iSeeCars, placing it among the leaders in its class. However, CarEdge estimates a 30.63% chance of requiring a repair exceeding $500 within the first 10 years of ownership. Notably, the Ford Ranger is projected to have the highest maintenance costs on this list. While recognized for its reliability, potential owners should factor in the anticipated higher maintenance expenses.
- Average Yearly Maintenance Cost: $615 (RepairPal)
- Est. Maintenance Cost During The First 10 Years: $10,045 (CarEdge)
- Total Recalls: 0
- Worst Ranger Year To Buy Used: 1999
Performance
| Engine | 2.3-Liter Turbocharged Inline-Four | 3.0-Liter Twin-Turbocharged V-6 |
|---|---|---|
| Transmission | 10-Speed Automatic | 10-Speed Automatic |
| Horsepower | 270 HP | 315 HP |
| Torque | 310 LB-FT | 400 LB-FT |
| Driveline | RWD or 4WD | RWD or 4WD |
| Towing Capacity | 7,500 lbs | 7,500 lbs |
| Payload Capacity | 1,805 lbs | 1,805 lbs |
While international markets continue to offer a diesel V-6 Ranger, the U.S. model lineup consists of gasoline engines exclusively. U.S. buyers can choose between a 2.3-liter turbocharged inline-four and a new twin-turbocharged 3.0-liter V-6. Intriguingly, Ford rates the maximum towing capacity at 7,500 pounds regardless of the chosen powertrain. Both rear-wheel and four-wheel drive configurations are available, with four-wheel drive enhancing towing and payload capabilities. Both engine options are paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission. While the turbocharged four-cylinder provides ample power for most driving situations, the V-6 elevates the Ranger’s performance with significantly more torque. Despite the increased power, the fuel economy difference between the two engines is surprisingly minimal, making the V-6 a particularly attractive upgrade.
2. 2024 Honda Ridgeline
Reliability Score: 9.2/100
The Honda Ridgeline, from Japanese automaker Honda, prioritizes ease of ownership and comfortable driving experience over outright power in the midsize truck segment. Sharing structural elements with the Honda Odyssey minivan, the Ridgeline boasts exceptional on-road manners, setting a high standard for ride quality and handling within its class.
Reliability
The Ridgeline excels in reliability ratings, achieving a score of 9.2 out of 10 from iSeeCars. CarEdge data indicates that the Honda Ridgeline is projected to cost significantly less to maintain over the first 10 years compared to many other popular pickup trucks. Furthermore, it has a low probability of requiring a major repair within the first decade, estimated at 24.23%.
- Average Yearly Maintenance Cost: $502 (RepairPal)
- Est. Maintenance Cost During The First 10 Years: $8,263 (CarEdge)
- Total Recalls: 0
- Worst Ridgeline Year To Buy Used: 2006
Performance
| Engine | 3.5-Liter Naturally Aspirated V-6 |
|---|---|
| Transmission | 9-Speed Automatic |
| Horsepower | 280 HP |
| Torque | 262 LB-FT |
| Driveline | AWD |
| Towing Capacity | 5,000 lbs |
| Payload Capacity | 1,583 lbs |
The Honda Ridgeline features a traditional naturally aspirated V-6 engine, in contrast to the turbocharged four-cylinders prevalent in many competitors. All Ridgeline trims come standard with all-wheel drive, a notable advantage. The Ridgeline’s primary trade-off is a lower maximum towing capacity compared to some rivals. However, its 5,000-pound towing capability is sufficient for many typical truck tasks. The Ridgeline’s standout characteristic is its car-like driving feel, offering superior comfort and handling for daily commutes compared to most other trucks in its class. The Ridgeline is ideally suited for buyers who prioritize on-road driving and comfort over extreme off-road capability. Its unibody construction, unlike the body-on-frame design of most competitors, contributes to its refined handling and ride quality, though it limits its off-road ruggedness.
1. 2024 Toyota Tacoma
Reliability Score: 9.2/100
Toyota, a manufacturer renowned for its long-standing reputation for exceptional reliability, once again claims the top spot in our ranking with the Toyota Tacoma. Toyota’s unwavering commitment to durability is a cornerstone of its brand, and the Tacoma exemplifies this commitment.
Reliability
Toyota’s Tacoma emerges as the most reliable midsize truck in our analysis. Furthermore, it is also projected to be the most affordable to maintain by a significant margin. CarEdge estimates that the Tacoma will cost substantially less to maintain over the first 10 years compared to the average pickup truck. RepairPal reinforces this, citing the Tacoma’s lowest average yearly maintenance cost among the trucks considered.
- Average Yearly Maintenance Cost: $478 (RepairPal)
- Est. Maintenance Cost During The First 10 Years: $6,420 (CarEdge)
- Total Recalls: 0
- Worst Tacoma Year To Buy Used: 2006
Performance
| Engine | 2.4-Liter Turbocharged Inline-Four | 2.4-Liter Turbocharged Inline-Four |
|---|---|---|
| Transmission | 6-Speed Manual or 8-Speed Automatic | 6-Speed Manual or 8-Speed Automatic |
| Horsepower | 228 HP | 278 HP |
| Torque | 243 LB-FT | 317 LB-FT |
| Driveline | RWD or AWD | RWD or AWD |
| Towing Capacity | N/A | 6400 lbs |
| Payload Capacity | N/A | 1,685 lbs |
The 2024 Toyota Tacoma features a 2.4-liter turbocharged inline-four engine offered in two different power outputs. The base SR trim receives the lower output version, while all other Tacoma models benefit from the more powerful variant. Buyers can choose between rear-wheel drive or all-wheel drive, and transmission options include both automatic and manual gearboxes. The Tacoma was thoroughly redesigned for the 2024 model year, with Toyota delivering significant improvements. For buyers seeking a reliable and value-packed midsize pickup truck, the 2024 Toyota Tacoma appears to be the leading choice. The enhancements implemented by Toyota for this model year, combined with its established reputation for reliability, strongly suggest that the Tacoma will maintain its position as a top-selling midsize truck in America.
