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The Most Reliable Trucks: Ram and Toyota Lead the Pack in 2026
Billy Rehbock
Writer
Manufacturer
Photographer
MotorTrend Staff
Photographer
Ryan Lugo
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March 24, 2026
Most truck buyers prioritize two things: capability when towing or hauling and long-term durability. To help shoppers make informed decisions, we’re diving deep into the 2026 J.D. Power U.S. Vehicle Dependability Study, which measures quality and reliability concerns reported by original owners. For this year’s analysis, J.D. Power surveyed owners of 2023 model year vehicles after three years of ownership. We’ll highlight the key findings, particularly for trucks, including owner concerns about over-the-air software updates, phone integration, and the emerging trends in electrified powertrains. Let’s break down which trucks stand out in terms of reliability according to the experts at J.D. Power.
The 2023 Ram 1500: A Standout in Full-Size Reliability
The 2023 Ram 1500 earns the top spot as the highest-ranked full-size pickup truck in J.D. Power’s 2026 U.S. Vehicle Dependability Study. This latest generation of the Ram 1500, first introduced for the 2019 model year, received its most recent refresh for 2025, keeping it competitive in the market. Our team at MotorTrend has also been impressed with the Ram 1500, recognizing it with our prestigious Truck of the Year award for the 2019, 2021, and 2025 model years. This consistent recognition speaks volumes about the truck’s overall quality and appeal.
When it comes to the Ram 1500’s strengths, the availability of a wide range of powertrains is a significant advantage. Buyers can choose from various options to suit their needs, whether it’s the fuel-efficient diesel engine or the powerful V8. Beyond the powertrains, the Ram 1500 offers an exceptional ride and handling experience that sets it apart in the full-size truck segment. Lower-end models are well-equipped for demanding job sites, providing the capability and ruggedness required for professional use. However, as you move up the trim ladder, the Ram 1500 transforms into a genuinely luxurious vehicle, loaded with cutting-edge technology and premium features. For those seeking ultimate performance, the Ram 1500 TRX delivers with its supercharged V8 engine and specialized off-road upgrades, making it a formidable contender in the high-performance truck category. Furthermore, the added benefit of great reliability makes the Ram 1500 an even more compelling package for potential buyers.
Despite its many strengths, the Ram 1500 does have a few drawbacks to consider. One notable area is fuel economy. Unless you opt for the diesel engine, the standard gasoline powertrains don’t deliver the best fuel efficiency in the full-size truck segment. Towing and payload figures, while respectable, are not class-leading, meaning there are other trucks on the market that can haul and tow slightly more. Additionally, the price of a new Ram 1500 can escalate quickly once you start adding optional features and higher trim levels, potentially pushing it into a premium price bracket.
Key Specifications for the 2023 Ram 1500:
Approximate Price: Starting around $22,000 when new.
Safety Rating: Received a 2022 Top Safety Pick award from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) and generally achieves four to five stars overall from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA).
Engines: Offers a diverse lineup including a 3.6-liter eTorque mild hybrid V-6, a 3.0-liter turbodiesel V-6, a 5.7-liter V-8 that can be equipped with eTorque mild hybrid technology, and for the high-performance TRX model, a 6.2-liter supercharged V-8.
Fuel Economy: Varies significantly by powertrain, ranging from 10-21 mpg in the city and 14-29 mpg on the highway.
For those interested in a more in-depth look at the 2023 Ram 1500, we invite you to read our experts’ full review for more detailed insights and analysis.
2023 Toyota Tacoma: Reliability Royalty in the Midsize Segment
When it comes to midsize trucks, the previous generation of the Toyota Tacoma stands out for its exceptional durability and rugged appeal, earning the title of the most reliable midsize truck in J.D. Power’s 2026 U.S. Vehicle Dependability Study. The latest iteration of the popular Tacoma arrived for the 2024 model year, meaning the 2023 model represents the final year of this highly regarded previous generation, which was offered from 2016 to 2023. This makes the 2023 model a prime candidate for buyers seeking a truck with a proven track record of reliability, potentially standing as an all-time great in that regard.
The Toyota Tacoma represents strong value within the competitive midsize truck market. Its timeless styling has allowed it to age gracefully, maintaining its appeal to shoppers year after year. The Tacoma offers a wide variety of configurations, allowing buyers to find the perfect setup for their specific needs and preferences. Furthermore, the inclusion of a strong suite of standard and available driver assistance technologies makes it a compelling choice for safety-conscious buyers. For those who venture off-road, the TRD models are particularly noteworthy, boasting impressive off-road capability and rugged styling that perfectly complements their adventurous capabilities.
However, the Tacoma is not without its drawbacks. One of the most frequently cited criticisms is its lack of refinement, which can make it feel somewhat agricultural compared to some competitors. The ride quality can be quite firm, and unless you opt for the TRD Pro model equipped with Fox Shocks, the ride can be rough, especially on uneven surfaces. The automatic transmission in this generation, while functional, was considered dated even when the truck was new, lacking the smoothness and responsiveness of more modern transmissions. Additionally, the interior of the Tacoma can feel cramped, particularly for passengers in the rear seats, which may be a concern for those who frequently carry passengers.
Key Specifications for the 2023 Toyota Tacoma:
Approximate Price: Starting around $23,000 when new.
Safety Rating: Achieved an overall safety rating of four stars from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA).
Engines: Offered with two powertrain options: a 2.7-liter inline-four engine and a more powerful 3.5-liter V-6 engine.
Fuel Economy: Provides respectable fuel efficiency for the segment, with ratings ranging from 17-20 mpg in the city and 20-23 mpg on the highway depending on the engine and configuration.
To gain a comprehensive understanding of the 2023 Toyota Tacoma, we recommend reviewing our experts’ full review for a detailed analysis of its performance, features, and overall value proposition.
2023 Chevrolet Silverado 1500: A Strong Contender in the Full-Size Segment
In the full-size truck segment, the Chevrolet Silverado 1500 ranks second only to the Ram 1500 in the 2026 J.D. Power U.S. Vehicle Dependability Study, demonstrating strong reliability credentials. Chevy gave the Silverado 1500 a significant update for the 2022 model year, and the truck carried over into 2023 with minimal changes, although the diesel engine received a notable boost in horsepower and torque, further enhancing its appeal. For off-road enthusiasts, the Silverado ZR2 variant stands out with its serious off-road hardware, making it exceptionally well-suited for demanding tasks like rock crawling.
The Chevrolet Silverado 1500 offers a compelling package of strengths. Chevy’s powertrains are generally strong and smooth across the lineup, from the entry-level four-cylinder engine to the powerful 420-hp V8 option. The diesel engine option provides excellent torque and remarkable fuel efficiency, making it a great choice for those who prioritize towing capability and fuel savings. In terms of utility, the Silverado boasts spacious bed options and incorporates useful features that enhance its functionality for everyday use. Furthermore, the ZR2 models are a solid pick for buyers who enjoy outdoor activities and require a truck that can handle challenging terrain.
However, the Silverado 1500 does have areas where it could improve. It’s important to note that you won’t mistake this Chevy for a luxury vehicle. Its road manners are generally less refined compared to some of its key rivals, meaning it may not provide the most comfortable ride on paved roads. The interior, while functional, can feel underwhelming and somewhat dated, lacking the premium feel and modern design of some competitors. On the exterior, the grille design has been a point of discussion, with some buyers finding it rather garish compared to the styling of other pickups on the market.
Key Specifications for the 2023 Chevrolet Silverado 1500:
Approximate Price: Starting around $23,000 when new.
Safety Rating: Earned an overall safety rating of five stars from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA).
Engines: A diverse powertrain lineup includes a 2.7-liter turbocharged four-cylinder, a 5.3-
