Where do folks go for consumer info on Pickup trucks

[Rob]

I'm a couple months out from replacing my 2003 3/4 ton avalanche.  I am NOT a truck expert or even a truck novice.... 

Where do folks go to find out good info on trucks?  I hear people say things like"stay away from ford XYZ engines made from 20XY-20ZQ".

Toying with getting an updated Consumer Reports subscription and researching there. 

When I start looking in earnest, here is where I am headed:
-I know I want a full sized truck, 3/4 to 1 ton.
-Looking hard at Diesel.
I am not sold on Ford/Chevy/Dodge/Toyota, but I do like the idea of a Ford as they did not accept any bailout money... 
-Looking at new (if I have to), or lightly used (prefer used, under 50K miles)

I tend to drive trucks into the ground.  I would still be driving my current truck if it was not in the need of some significant repairs.

Thanks in advance!

[Rob]

BTW, I am looking this thread over so no need to repeat that info (unless you want to!)
http://hunting-washington.com/smf/index.php/topic,211467.0.html

[Blacktail Sniper]

When I was looking, I found a decent condition/priced diesel truck and had zero knowlege about diesels.

Posted a question about the truck  on here and gots lot of good info and shared experiences.

So, you are going in the right direction, good luck.

[whacker1]

Rob, I am in the same boat, but it sounds like I am further along in the process.  I had it narrowed down to 2015 & 2016 Ford F350 lease returns and low mileage trade ins.  I love the duramax motor and Alison transmission in the GMC/Chevy lineup, but I just haven't liked the body style or interior.  The Ford is where I was preferential.  I figured out that I didn't want to be the Guinea pig on the 2017 all aluminum body, so I decided to seek the savings of the low mileage 2015 & 2016's.  I am more than happy to give you what I have learned.  p.m. me if you want specifics of what I have figured out, as I am happy to share.

[Rob]

Thanks!  expect a PM as I get closer to knowing what to ask...

[jackelope]

All of the info you're looking for is handily located right here on Hunt-WA.
 

[jrebel]

If you drive them into the ground...new is not a bad option.  A lot of time you can buy lifetime oil changes for under 1 thousand bucks and you will save a tremendous amount of money over the life of the vehicle.  My 2006 dodge has 170K on it an has had oil changes every 3K.....which equates to roughly 57 oil changes or $5,700.  I plan on another 57 too.    

As for new, I really like the Cummins or the Ford diesels.  We run both at my places of employment and they both have awesome power.  They are on full size ambulances that weigh approx eleven thousand pounds and they still generate enough power for any situation.  The one thing I will say....the cummins has always been a good motor.  The fords are still relatively new, though they are showing promise.  I would have a hard time buying anything but a cummins if I were replacing mine tomorrow.     

All the newer trucks take DEF so I guess that is just something a guy has to get use to.  Cannot comment on the Chevy's as i have never driven one. 

[Crunchy]

I am likely to pull the trigger on a new rig in the next month.  Leaning towards a Ram 2500 diesel.  Once you decide on the truck, finding where to get the best deal is the hard part.

[Rob]

Thanks, what is DEF?  Is that the additive that needs to be mixed with the fuel?

[whacker1]

Thanks, what is DEF?  Is that the additive that needs to be mixed with the fuel?

Diesel Exhaust Fluid.....It has a separate tank, and it is used to keep the emissions cleaner.  5 - 6 gallon tanks depending on the make of the Diesel and model of pickup.  been told they are good for about 1000 miles or so depending on driving habits.

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diesel_exhaust_fluid

[Rob]

Gotcha. 

[Fl0und3rz]

All of the info you're looking for is handily located right here on Hunt-WA.
 

[Clearcut]

I have a 16 ram 2500.. so far so good. An the DEF fluid on daily driving habits will last 7500-10,000 miles no problem except if towing heavily .

[Skyvalhunter]

All of the info you're looking for is handily located right here on Hunt-WA.
 

Now that's funny, right there!!

[netcoyote]

I wouldn't waste a dollar on Consumer Reports...unless you are concerned about things like cup holders and stuff unrelated to most of what you are using a truck for. I've found them mostly irrelevant. Best bet is to do some googling and search through the forums related to the various models. Most of the input is from real owners with real problems or recommendations.  Don't rely on a single forum post but look for trends. Do a lot of people comment on the same issue on the same vehicle? One bad comment by someone with an axe to grind does not constitute a trend. After awhile you'll start to form opinions about certain models and certain features that you want to look for, or avoid.
I drive 2 second generation Dodge Rams with Cummins engines. They have quirks, but I have got through the major problems with both rigs and found them to be good rigs. Older trucks can be a crap shoot and the 2nd gen Rams left on the market are getting a little long in the tooth. Beyond that I can't make any other recommendation. Good luck with your choice!