Are you in the market for a used semi truck? You must be wondering, “What are the most reliable used semi truck models out there?” You’re not alone. Before you invest too much time with going out and test driving some, let’s dive in and find out which trucks might be best suited for you and your use.
Understanding Reliability in Used Semi Trucks
Reliability in a used semi truck isn’t just about the brand name… It’s more about how well the truck’s been maintained, how often it’s been serviced, and whether there’s any known issues. Unfortunately it’s not as simple as buying a regular vehicle. These trucks get worked pretty hard, and the miles add up very fast. Here are just a few things you should consider:
- Maintenance History: A well-maintained truck is a reliable truck. Ask for service records and look for signs of regular maintenance. Always have your own mechanic look through everything, even if it will cost a few bucks. The small investment will pay dividends and will avoid any future problems that you might not catch on your own.
- Brand Reputation: Some brands are known for their durability. Stick with the reliable ones. Just like regular vehicles (Toyota, GMC, Ford), you should always consider a reliable brand with a good history of reliability.
- Model-Specific Issues: Do your research. Some models have recurring problems you should know about. This can include both the mechanics (engine & transmission), but the other parts of the truck like the interior, electronics, EGR, DEF, SCR, DPF, etc. Don’t worry if you’re not familiar with those terms. We will go over these later in more detail.
- Engine-Specific & Transmission-Specific Issues: Just like the previous bullet point, some engines have “known” issues and you should be doing thorough research, not just on the make or model of the truck, but the engine and transmission. Later in this article, we’ll go over some known engine problems with the International brand of trucks.
Top 5 Most Reliable Used Semi Truck Models
1. Freightliner Cascadia
Overview and Key Features:
- Fuel Efficiency: Saving money with fuel adds to your bottom line! The Cascadia’s known for its great fuel economy, which can save you a ton of money in the long run. We will touch on just a few engine options and highlight the performance and fuel efficiency.
- Comfortable Cab: The cab’s spacious and comfortable, making those longer hauls a little easier. Sitting in the truck hours on end, you will want to make sure the seats are ergonomically suited for long drives. The seats have air-suspension technology with adjustable lumbar support. The sleeper does have a high-roof design and can come with single or double bunks.
- Advanced Safety Features: With features like lane departure warning (LDW) and adaptive cruise control (ACC), and side guard assist which will help with monitoring blind spots.
Reliability Highlights:
- Durability: The Cascadia’s built to last. It’s known for its strong engine performance and low downtime.
- Engine: The Detroit Diesel (DD13 & DD15) engines are powerful and reliable with a high torque output that enhances performance for long hauls. The DD13 has a horsepower rating from 370 to 525 and with 1,250 to 1,850 lb-ft of torque. The big brother which can handle heavier loads and is ideal for long hauling, is the DD15 which has 400 to 505 horsepower, and 1,550 to 1,850 lb-ft of torque. There are other engine options available, like the Cummins ISX15, but even the Mercedes-Benz OM460 for models older than 2010. But we felt the DD13 & DD15 were superior to those when it came to reliability.
- Frame: The frame’s robust and designed to handle heavy loads which is made with high-strength steel construction.
Common Issues and Maintenance Tips:
- EGR System: Keep an eye on the EGR (Exhaust Gas Recirculation) system. It can cause issues if not properly maintained.
- Regular Maintenance: Stick to the recommended maintenance schedule to keep your truck running smoothly. The costs can be potentially higher due to the complex emission system, and frequent cleaning with the DPF (Diesel Particulate Filter).
- Check the Cooling System: Make sure the cooling systems in good working order to prevent overheating.
2. Peterbilt 389
Overview and Key Features:
- Classic Design: The 389‘s got a classic, timeless design that many drivers love.
- Powerful Engine Options: With powerful engine options from Paccar MX-13 and Cummins X15, the 389’s got plenty of power. The Paccar MX-13 is known for its fuel efficiency, reliability, and lightweight design. With great fuel efficiency comes less power, the Paccar MX-13 does lack the raw power compared to other engine manufacturers. The Cummins X15 has awesome high horsepower and torque, which is well suited for those long-hauls or heavier loads. More power also means these engines are less fuel efficient when compared to the Paccar MX-13.
- High Resale Value: Peterbilts has a long history of holding their value, so you can expect a good return on your investment if you decide to sell in the future. Much like Toyota’s, they retain their value very well if maintained well which can yield a higher resale value.
Reliability Highlights:
- Build Quality: The 389 is known for its excellent build quality & durability. The use of high quality materials, with precise engineering will provide longevity even when being driven in demanding conditions.
- Frame and Suspension: The durable frame design and Peterbilt’s proprietary Air Trac or Low Air Leaf suspension provides a smooth and comfortable ride, and is ideal for heavier loads and for long hauling.
- Long-Lasting Components: The components both OEM and aftermarket have strong support and availability, which can make downtime a lot shorter. The 389’s are designed to last, reducing the need for frequent replacements.
Common Issues and Maintenance Tips:
- Transmission Issues: Watch out for transmission issues like, synchronization problems (difficulty shifting gears smoothly), clutch failure (premature wear of the clutch or clutch linkage), and shift lag or slippage. Regular inspections and keeping up with regular maintenance can help catch these problems early.
- Inspect the Brakes: Like any other truck or vehicle, make sure the brakes are in good working order. 389 owners have had leaks in the air system, this includes the brakes and the air suspension.
- Regular Oil Changes: Regular oil changes are essential for keeping the engine in good condition and is basic maintenance that should be done with any truck.
3. Kenworth T680
Overview and Key Features:
- Aerodynamic Design: The T680‘s aerodynamic design improves fuel efficiency.
- Fuel-Efficient Engine: Just like the Peterbilt 389, this truck has similar engine options. The Paccar MX-13 engine is known for its fuel efficiency but lacks the guts of raw power. The Cummins X15 is equipped with 565 horsepower and 2,050 lb-ft of torque. The third option is the Paccar MX-11, which is smaller than the MX-13, with only 430 horsepower and 1,650 lb-ft of torque. This engine is ideal for lighter loads, mostly for local hauling or regional hauling, and provides really good fuel efficiency.
- Spacious and Comfortable Cab: The cab’s spacious and comfortable, with plenty of room for drivers to relax and is ideal for long-hauling. The sleeper cabs have 3 different size options ranging from 52-inch to 82-inch which also comes with optional amenities such as TVs, microwaves, or refrigerators.
Reliability Highlights:
- Robust Engine: The Paccar MX-13 engine is robust and reliable, with a decent amount of power which can handle lighter loads. But for heavier loads and long hauls, the Cummins X15 is the better choice.
- Durable Construction: The T680’s built to last, with a strong frame and durable but lightweight components. The chassis is built to handle heavier loads, with less flex.
- Low Maintenance Costs: The T680’s designed to be easy to maintain, with low maintenance costs. The PACCAR and Cummins engines are widely known for their reliability. The improved aerodynamics is not just the increase fuel efficiency, but it also reduces the stress and flex on the truck which in return reduces the overall maintenance needed on the truck.
Common Issues and Maintenance Tips:
- Electrical System: Monitor the electrical system for any issues, mostly related to dashboard display and sensors. Electrical problems like false warning lights can be difficult and expensive to fix.
- Diesel Exhaust Fluid (DEF): The DEF system is crucial with meeting emissions standards, and like many DEF systems it can be prone to sensor failures or clogging. Keeping the system maintained and cleaned is necessary to avoid any issues.
- Air Conditioning: Some T680 owners have reported issues with the AC system, specifically with leaks in the refrigerant or faulty compressors. The blower motor for the AC unit is another known issue which results in weak airflow in the cab.
4. Volvo VNL
Overview and Key Features:
- Advanced Safety Features: The VNL comes with advanced safety features like lane departure warning and collision mitigation.
- Fuel Efficiency: The VNL’s designed to be fuel-efficient, with features like aerodynamic design and efficient engines. They come with two engine options, the Volvo D13 which provides excellent 405 to 500 horsepower and 1,450 to 1,850 lb-ft of torque which is great for long-hauling. Heavier loads or mountainous routes might require a larger engine. The second option is the Cummins X15 which was mentioned in the Peterbilt and Kenworth overview above.
- Comfortable Ride: The VNL provides a comfortable ride, with a spacious cab and advanced suspension.
Reliability Highlights:
- Consistent Performance: The VNL’s known for its consistent performance, with a strong D13 engine and the Volvo I-Shift transmission. The Volvo I-Shift transmission helps with improving the fuel economy by using the technology which can automatically select the optimal gear for all driving conditions.
- Good Fuel Economy: The VNL’s fuel efficiency is due to the Volvo I-Shift transmission, which is designed to optimize shifting for better engine performance and extends the life of both the engine and the transmission.
- Volvo Active Driver Assist (VADA): The VADA system is kind of similar to other active drive assist technologies by other manufacturers, but there are some unique features that are specific to Volvo. These features include, Enhanced Radar and Camera Integration, to monitor traffic and potential hazards surrounding the truck. The Driver Coaching is another tool that will prevent accidents and it will also provide feedback to the driver on how they can improve their driving.
Common Issues and Maintenance Tips:
- Electrical Gremlins: Look out for electrical gremlins. Like the Kenworth T680, issues have been known with the dashboard display and with the sensors malfunctioning. Regular inspections can help catch problems early.
- Emission System Issues: EGR (Exhaust Gas Recirculation) and the DPF (Diesel Particulate Filter) both have been known to clog or malfunction, resulting in lower engine performance. Stick to the recommended service intervals to keep your VNL running smoothly.
- Transmission Issues: Volvo’s I-Shift automatic transmission has been known to have issues with delayed gear shifts, especially when hauling heavier loads or going up hills or mountains.
5. International ProStar
Overview and Key Features:
- Efficient Engine Options: The ProStar comes with efficient engine options from Cummins X15 and Navistar also known as the International A26. Since we’ve already touched on the Cummins X15, we’ll just go over the A26. The A26 is a more fuel efficient engine, with a 400 to 475 horsepower and 1,450 to 1,750 lb-ft or torque which is not as strong as the Cummins X15. Also, you should keep in mind, if you’re buying an older model International, the Maxxforce engines from 2011 to 2014 had issues with the EGR system These were before they came out with the A26.
- User-Friendly Layout & Dashboard: The dashboard’s user-friendly thoughtful placement of gauges, along with the intuitive layout of controls, makes things stress-free when driving the Prostar.
- Good Maneuverability: The ProStar’s known for its good maneuverability, making it easy to handle on the road. The design and optimized placement for the axles, improves the wheelbase which allows for a tighter turning radius compared to other trucks in its class.
Reliability Highlights:
- Solid Engine Performance: The ProStar’s A26 engines are known for their solid performance and reliability even though they are rather new compared to the Cummins X15. Cummins have a longer history of reliability, and they have a wider service network. (Again, we can’t stress this enough… stay away from any Maxxforce engines!)
- OnCommand Connection Telematics: The Prostars are equipped with their OnCommand Connection, which can provide real-time diagnostics and maintenance alerts. Having an advance notice allows the operator to be proactive on maintenance before things get worse.
- Low Downtime: The ProStar’s designed to be reliable, with low downtime and easy maintenance due to the ease of serviceability with the Cummins X15. If you have the new A26 engine, International has an extensive service network all across the states, which makes maintenance easier and faster for the operator.
Common Issues and Maintenance Tips:
- Emission System: Watch for clogging issues with the DPF and SCR (Selective Catalytic Reduction) systems. Stop-and-go trips in particular, can be the root cause of these issues.
- Fuel System Issues: Fuel injectors and fuel pumps have been reported with having issues, especially in earlier models.
- Maxxforce Engines: Like we mentioned earlier, stay clear of any trucks that have the Maxxforce engine and consider the alternatives.
Tips for Choosing a Reliable Used Semi Truck
When you’re looking for a reliable used semi truck, here’s what you must keep in mind:
- Research Maintenance History: Ask for service records and look for signs of regular maintenance. A well-maintained truck is a reliable truck.
- Check for Recalls and Common Issues: Do your research. Know the model’s common problems and check for any recalls.
- Thorough Inspection: Get a professional to inspect the truck before you buy. A thorough inspection can catch problems that you might miss.
- Consider Brand and Model Reputation: Some brands have a better track record than others. Stick with the reliable ones.
- Speak to other truck drivers, even if they don’t own the truck, they will have firsthand experience. They will be able to provide you with the good & the bad.
So, there you have it. “The most reliable used semi truck models” out there. Whether you’re a seasoned driver or just starting out, these models are sure to keep you rolling without worry. Happy trucking!
