Originally Posted by kaisen
I concur with Matt in that, yes, it's a loaded question, and yes, you can't go too far wrong with any of them.
*IF* you are buying used, the resale component is already working for (or against) you. If resale is higher, you're the one paying more. If resale is lower, you're buying more truck for the money. Scott's idea about the Tundra being worth more doesn't pan out -- a 2007 Tundra is worth about the same as a 2007 Ford F150 or 2007 Chev Silverado, similarly equipped.
The Toyotas and Nissans are a little more expensive to repair, but you shouldn't have to repair them that often, right? Again, that's not as true as you'd think given their track record with cars. All of them are pretty bulletproof, but each have their own achille's heels.
Warranty would be one consideration. All have/had a 3 year / 36,000 mile bumper to bumper warranty from new. If you're looking at 2009 lease returns, the Ram would have come with a "Lifetime" powertrain warranty, but the next owners don't get anything past 3/36. The Toyota, Nissan, and Ford powertrains are covered for 5 years or 60,000 miles from new. GM's powertrain warranty is 5 years or 100,000 miles. Will that extra 40K miles make a difference to you? It depends on how many miles are on the unit you buy, and how many miles you drive each year. The different powertrain warranties are worth taking into consideration, for sure.
If you can hold off until mid-Summer, I think you'll find tremendous deals on new 2012s. Esp if gas prices keep making the news. They're already advertising $10,000 off new pickups. Check out your best deal on a new one before you pull the trigger on a used one. It may be your best bet depending on how long you plan to keep it. I'd also consider leasing a new one. Maybe a new Ford EcoBoost 3.5L V6 twin turbo. Yes, I'm serious.
Good luck, let me know if you need any data.
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