Category: Trucks

May 16

Discover the Top Affordable Used Truck: The Unforgettable Dodge Dakota

A Surprising Value in Used Trucks

If you’re in the market for an affordable truck but don’t want to break the bank, the best option might just be a model that hasn’t been produced in over a decade. Enter the Dodge Dakota, a truck that ceased production in 2011 but continues to offer remarkable value for under $10,000. Despite its discontinuation, the Dakota remains a practical choice due to its balance of power, reliability, and affordability.

The 2011 Dodge Dakota parked on pavement
2011 Dodge Dakota | Dodge

Why the Dodge Dakota Stands Out

AutoBlog highlights the Dodge Dakota as the prime choice for budget-conscious truck buyers, notable for its robust performance between 2005 and 2011. While the Dakota was eventually rebranded as the Ram Dakota towards the end of its production cycle, its appeal lies in its versatile engine options: a standard 3.7-liter V6 and an optional 4.7-liter V8, delivering 210 hp and 302 hp respectively. These engines not only offer substantial towing capabilities but also ensure a solid performance that rivals more recent models.

Long-Term Durability and Performance

Despite the decline in popularity of mid-size trucks during its final years, the Dakota’s longevity and durability have not gone unnoticed. With a strong reliability rating from Cars.com, this model can typically last up to 250,000 miles, with some well-maintained units surpassing 350,000 miles. For those looking for a dependable workhorse without the hefty price tag, the Dodge Dakota proves that sometimes, the best values come from the past.

May 16

The Most Stolen Truck in America Isn’t the Ford F-150

Surprise! The Ford F-150 isn’t the most stolen truck in American anymore. A close rival is now easier for thieves to take.

We have good news for some truck brands and bad news for others. For years the Ford F-150 was the most stolen truck in America, but now it can step back and relax. One of its rivals has surpassed it as the full-size option most targeted by thieves.

What is the most stolen truck in America?

As of 2023, the most stolen truck in America is the Chevrolet Silverado. It’s the fourth most stolen car overall, behind the Kia Optima, Hyundai Sonata, and Hyundai Elantra.

According to the National Insurance Crime Bureau (NICB), people reported 23,721 Chevy Silverado thefts in 2023. The Hyundai Elantra had 48,445 thefts in the top spot.

The Ford F-150 was the most stolen truck in 2020, 2021, and 2022. So, many people expected the trend to continue.

But in 2023, the Ford F-150 landed in ninth place with only 15,852 reports of theft. On an interesting note, these were the only two trucks to land in the top 10.

The 2024 Chevy Silverado off-roading in the woods
2024 Chevy Silverado | Chevrolet

Ford F-150 trucks were a prized target due to part shortages for repairs. Thieves would steal the truck and strip it for valuable parts like the headlights, bumpers, and wheels.

The 2024 Ford F-150 has new theft prevention features. Sensors will send the owner mobile alerts if anyone tries to get in your truck, tow it, or tamper with it. A GPS tracker will detect if the truck moves while the engine is off, as this could mean it’s being towed.

An accelerometer detects if the truck is lifted for towing or to take its wheels. It will also detect if your truck is bumped or disturbed while in park.

The Chevy Silverado 1500 could be targeted for valuable parts such as the catalytic converter. It sells for a high price and is easy to quickly remove.

May 01

Why Does My Turn Signal Blink Faster Sometimes?

 

Introduction: The Fast-Blinking Turn Signal

Have you ever noticed your turn signal blinking more rapidly than usual? This increased speed often indicates that maintenance is required, typically pointing to an issue with the turn signal bulb. Let’s explore why your turn signal might be blinking faster and what you can do about it.

Causes of a Fast-Blinking Turn Signal

One common reason for a faster blinking turn signal is a faulty bulb. When you activate your turn signal, electricity flows through the fuse box to the turn signal circuit and then to the bulb. If the bulb is damaged or malfunctioning, the signal may blink faster or inconsistently, indicating that it needs replacement.

Diagnosing the Issue

To diagnose the issue, inspect each turn signal to see if one is blinking or illuminating differently. A bulb that appears dark, cloudy, or has a broken filament likely needs replacing. Additionally, poor or damaged electrical connections can cause the turn signal to blink faster, as insufficient power reaches the bulb, leading to inconsistent blinking.

Fixing the Problem

Start by checking all wiring and connections around the turn signal area and cleaning the components. Ensure the fuses are functioning correctly. If the bulb is faulty, replacing it usually involves opening the hood, removing the headlight housing, and disconnecting the electrical connector.

Carefully install the new bulb, avoiding direct contact with the glass to prevent premature failure. Reconnect the electrical connector and place the housing back in position. Finally, test the new bulb to ensure it works correctly.

A mechanic holding a turn signal bulb
Turn signal bulb | iStock

Additional Causes and Solutions

A faulty electrical switch can also result in inconsistent blinking rates. These issues are often caused by corrosion, burns, or worn insulation in the switch or relays. Checking and cleaning these components and replacing worn-out parts can resolve the problem.

Conclusion: Ensuring Proper Turn Signal Function

Understanding why your turn signal blinks faster can help you maintain your vehicle’s safety and functionality. Regular checks and prompt replacements of faulty bulbs and connections ensure your turn signals work correctly, keeping you safe on the road. If you encounter persistent issues, consider consulting a professional mechanic for further assistance.

May 01

Why Does My Turn Signal Blink Faster Sometimes? Understanding and Fixing the Issue

Introduction: The Fast-Blinking Turn Signal

Have you ever noticed your turn signal blinking faster than usual while turning? This rapid blinking is a signal from your car that maintenance is needed, often indicating a problem with the turn signal bulb. Let’s explore the reasons behind this and how you can address it.

Causes of a Fast-Blinking Turn Signal

Your turn signal may blink faster for various reasons, commonly due to a faulty bulb. When you activate the turn signal, electricity flows through the fuse box to the turn signal circuit, then to the bulb. If the bulb is damaged, the signal might blink faster or erratically, signaling a need for replacement.

Diagnosing the Issue

To determine if the bulb is the issue, inspect each blinker to see if one is blinking differently. A bulb that appears dark, cloudy, or has a broken filament likely needs to be replaced. Besides, damaged electrical connections can also cause the turn signal to blink faster, as they prevent adequate power from reaching the bulb.

Fixing the Problem

To fix a fast-blinking turn signal, start by checking all wiring and connections around the turn signal area. Clean the components and ensure the fuses are functional. If the bulb is faulty, replacing it usually involves opening the hood, removing the headlight housing, and disconnecting the electrical connector.

Carefully install the new bulb, avoiding direct contact with the glass to prevent premature failure. Reconnect the electrical connection and place the housing back in position. Finally, test the new bulb to confirm it works properly.

Additional Causes and Solutions

Poor electrical connections or a faulty switch can also lead to inconsistent blinking rates. These issues are often caused by corrosion, burns, or worn insulation in the switch or relays. Checking and cleaning these components, and replacing worn-out parts, can resolve the problem.

Conclusion: Ensuring Proper Turn Signal Function

Understanding why your turn signal blinks faster can help you maintain your vehicle’s safety and functionality. Regular checks and prompt replacements of faulty bulbs and connections ensure your turn signals work correctly, keeping you safe on the road. If you encounter persistent issues, consider consulting a professional mechanic for further assistance.

May 01

Ram Casts an Old Spell, Reviving the Warlock Trim for 2025

A new Ram trim heads to the pickup truck market, but it’s not a new name. The 2025 Ram 1500 Warlock is new for the latest version of this half-ton truck, but the name should sound familiar. Ram has been using the Warlock name for one of the trims of the Ram 1500 Classic. Now, the Warlock name graduates to the modernized version of the Ram half-ton truck.

Why does Ram have two versions of its half-ton truck?

When Ram added the new DT generation in 2018, the DS generation, dubbed Classic, continued as a budget-friendly alternative. The Classic model is the only Ram truck available with a two-door, regular cab build, making it the affordable alternative. The DT models are only offered in four-door versions with Quad and Crew cab variants. We expected the Ram 1500 Classic to be gone already, but it has remained.

What is the new 2025 Ram 1500 Warlock

The Warlock name isn’t new to Dodge or Ram trucks, dating back to the 1970s with the Dodge D100 and the more recent Ram 1500 Classic. This new Warlock trim fits into the Ram 1500 lineup with some impressive features. For the DT generation model, the Warlock includes:

  • Black grille
  • Black 18-inch wheels
  • Black exhaust tips
  • Black tow hooks
  • Black badges
  • Warlock bedside stickers
  • 1.0-inch suspension lift
  • Skid plates
  • Bilstein shocks
  • Adaptive cruise control
  • Lane-keep assist
  • Blind-spot monitoring
  • Remote engine starting
  • Leather-wrapped steering wheel
  • LED headlights and taillights
  • LED bed lighting
  • Navigation system

These features give the Warlock an attractive appearance package and an impressive set of safety features, making it a useful truck.

The Hurricane engine is the perfect spell for this Warlock

Ram gives the new Warlock trim the Hurricane SST powertrain. This gives the 2025 Ram 1500 Warlock a 3.0-liter twin-turbocharged 6-cylinder engine that produces 420 horsepower and 469 lb-ft of torque. This makes the new Warlock more powerful than the Classic model with its Pentastar 3.6-liter V6 engine that produces 305 horsepower.

What colors does Ram offer for this truck?

The new Warlock can be had in several available colors, including:

  • Bright White
  • Billet Silver
  • Granite Crystal Metallic
  • Diamond Black
  • Forged Blue Metallic
  • Hydro Blue
  • Flame Red
  • Delmonico Red

Is the price increase worth it?

Compared to the 2025 Ram 1500 Classic Warlock’s price of $45,430, the new 2025 Ram 1500 Warlock starts at $56,255. The added technology, impressive powertrain, and modern build could be worth this price increase.

Apr 26

Ford Recalls Nearly 500,000 SUVs and Trucks Due to Battery Issue

Overview of the Recall

Identified Battery Problem

Ford Motor Company has announced a recall for nearly 500,000 SUVs and pickup trucks due to a significant battery detection issue. This problem affects certain Bronco Sport SUVs and Maverick trucks, which might not detect low battery levels. Such a failure can result in the engine and electrical systems losing power during operation, creating a notable safety hazard.

Models Affected and Recall Scope

The recall includes specific models from the 2021 to 2024 Bronco Sport SUVs and the 2022 to 2023 Maverick trucks, as reported by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA). It is imperative for owners of these vehicles to take prompt action to address the potential risks.

Instructions for Vehicle Owners

Solution and Contact Information

Owners are advised to contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332 and reference the recall number 24S24. It is crucial for those with affected vehicles to get in touch with their Ford dealer immediately.

Notification and Repair Process

Ford will begin mailing notification letters to owners starting May 13. Dealers will recalibrate the body control module and powertrain control module at no charge. For more details, owners can contact the NHTSA Vehicle Safety Hotline at 1-888-327-4236 (TTY 1-800-424-9153) or visit the NHTSA website at www.nhtsa.gov for additional information.

Apr 26

Price Wars: Ford Ranger Raptor vs. Toyota Tacoma TRD Pro – A Cost-Benefit Analysis

Cost Advantage: Ford Ranger Raptor

The 2024 Ford Ranger Raptor emerges as a more budget-friendly contender in the off-road truck segment, offering a significant price benefit over the Toyota Tacoma TRD Pro. With a starting price of $57,065, including destination fees, the Ranger Raptor is almost $10,000 cheaper than its counterpart, the Tacoma, which is tagged at $66,890 including fees. This price disparity makes the Ranger Raptor an attractive option for buyers looking for high performance without the hefty price.

Shifting Market Dynamics Favor the Ford Ranger Raptor

Traditionally dominated by the Toyota Tacoma, the mid-size truck sector is witnessing a shift with the entry of the competitively priced Ford Ranger Raptor. This shift not only challenges the Tacoma’s long-standing market leadership but also introduces a cost-effective alternative for truck enthusiasts. The Tacoma’s higher price point now positions the Ranger Raptor as a formidable competitor offering substantial value.

Comparative Performance and Off-Road Capabilities

Both the Ford Ranger Raptor and the Toyota Tacoma TRD Pro are designed to excel in off-road conditions, equipped with advanced technologies and powerful engines. The Ranger Raptor boasts a turbocharged 3.0-liter V6 engine, which produces 405 horsepower and 430 lb-ft of torque, outperforming the Tacoma TRD Pro’s hybrid setup that delivers 325 horsepower and 465 lb-ft of torque. This difference in power and the immediate torque response from the Tacoma’s hybrid system highlight each vehicle’s unique approach to balancing performance and efficiency.

The 2024 Ford Ranger Raptor jumping in the desert
2024 Ford Ranger Raptor | Ford

Enhanced Insights and Benefits

Financial Implications of Lower Cost

Opting for the Ford Ranger Raptor could lead to considerable savings for consumers, which could alternatively be used for vehicle customization or saved for other expenses. This financial advantage underscores the Ranger Raptor’s appeal as an economically wise choice without compromising on the expected off-road functionality.

Off-Road Technology and Design

Each truck is outfitted with state-of-the-art off-road tech, including electronically locking differentials and specially tuned Fox shocks, poised to tackle tough terrain with ease. While both models feature 33-inch tires, the Ranger Raptor offers 10.7 inches of ground clearance compared to the Tacoma’s 11.0 inches, slightly edging out in terms of underbody protection.

Interior Comfort and Ergonomic Design

Inside, the Ford Ranger Raptor and Toyota Tacoma TRD Pro cater to off-road comfort with distinct seating solutions designed to support the driver and passengers in rugged conditions. The Ranger Raptor is equipped with supportive bucket seats, whereas the Tacoma opts for isodynamic seating to enhance stability and comfort, proving that both models prioritize ergonomics to enhance the overall driving experience.

In conclusion, the Ford Ranger Raptor’s significant price advantage coupled with its robust features and performance makes it a compelling choice for potential buyers, challenging the Toyota Tacoma TRD Pro’s dominance in the market with a blend of affordability and capability.

Apr 26

The i-Force Max Powertrain Boosts the Toyota Tacoma Trail-Conquering Qualities

It might be a hybrid powertrain, but it’s not a boring fuel-sipper. The new 2024 Toyota Tacoma benefits from Toyota’s push toward hybridization for nearly every model. This popular midsize pickup truck receives the power and performance of an impressive i-Force Max hybrid powertrain on some trims. This new powertrain could maximize your fun in this midsize truck.

What are the power figures for the i-Force Max Tacoma?

Some might be able to recite the figures from memory, that’s how much this new Tacoma powertrain has been covered. Still, for those unfamiliar, the new i-Force Max powertrain uses a 2.4-liter turbocharged 4-cylindeer engine and a 48-horsepower electric motor. This motor is integrated into the 8-speed automatic transmission to boost the entire system’s power.

This setup gives the Toyota Tacoma 326 horsepower and 465 lb-ft of torque. If that doesn’t impress you, this might. The torque figure is 75% greater than the torque produced by the previous Tacoma’s V6 engine. That’s an impressive increase.

Is this powertrain reserved for only one trim?

Thankfully, Toyota doesn’t reserve the i-Force Max powertrain for the top Tacoma trims. It’s standard on the Trailhunter and TRD Pro models, which are the top two trims, but that’s not the end. This incredible new powertrain is also available for the TRD Sport, TRD Off-Road, and Limited models. This gives you five trims to choose from for this incredible new hybrid powertrain.

An amazing trail-focused powertrain

Experienced off-roaders often search for as much torque as possible in their vehicles. This power item is ideal for slow-going mud crawling or hill climbing. The Toyota Tacoma was already an impressive off-road truck, especially at the TRD Pro trim, but the i-Force Max torque takes things to a new level.

In addition to the impressive, torque-rich powertrain, The Tacoma brings several features that make it more enjoyable on the trails. Some of these are:

  • Robust 4WD system – full-time on Limited models but part-time for TRD Pro and Trailhunter
  • Electronically controlled 2-speed transfer case
  • Stabilizer Disconnect Mechanism
  • Specific trim suspension settings
  • IsoDynamic Performance Front Seats – TRD Pro

The right angles for your off-road adventures

The Toyota Tacoma brings impressive off-road angles to the TRD Pro trim. This is the most hardcore off-roader of the Tacoma lineup, and it gives you:

  • 35.7 degree approach angle
  • 24.6 degree breakover angle
  • 22.6 degree departure angle
  • 11.5 inches of ground clearance

Is the i-Force Max powertrain efficient?

Compared to ICE powertrains from other midsize pickups, this new i-Force Max powertrain is efficient. It gives the Toyota Tacoma up to 24 mpg combined. This new powertrain takes midsize truck driving to new levels and throws down the gauntlet, challenging other automakers.

Apr 21

Here’s How You Can Buy a Used Military Humvee

Dreaming of off-roading like Rambo? There’s a way to make it happen.

I’ll never forget the day we were meeting at an off-roading trail and my buddy showed up in an honest-to-goodness military Humvee. Like any 4×4 fan would be, I was intrigued how he’d gotten his hands on it. He revealed that he’d bought it at auction, and paid less than you’d spend on a side-by-side.

Here’s the deal, the government has a duty to the taxpayers to make back money wherever it can. So it is legally bound to auction off surplus property to the highest bidder. My colleague Erik Sherman has written at length how to buy surplus military vehicles. But the long and short of it is you just need to find a website with military auctions. GovPlanet.com is one option. GovLiquidation.com is another one. The government actually keeps on official database of auctions. But first, a couple of things to consider.

The government orders Humvees in many different configurations. First and foremost, some are for road use and others are off-road only. Before you buy any surplus military vehicle, make certain it has been registered for on-road use, because it may be a nightmare to get it registered for the first time.

Parking lot full of surplus military vehicles.
Surplus Humvees | 6381380 via iStockPhoto

Second of all, the configurations. Some Humvees don’t even have doors. Others have high ambulance bodies. So decide what you want to use your juggernaut of an SUV for and then shop accordingly.

Finally, many military vehicles have had a very hard life. If trucks have a plow frame attached or maybe a fifth wheel for towing they could have been pressed in to hard duty. So read the descriptions before making a decision.

Obviously, look for vehicles on bases where you can easily pick up your new Humvee. Otherwise you’ll be responsible for shipping. Happy Humvee hunting.

Feb 18

The Kia Tasman Wants to Tackle the Ford Ranger

The Kia Tasman is going after the Ford Ranger Raptor. The new Kia truck may have been caught with a Ford Ranger in the wild.

Truck battles are happening even though some options aren’t even out yet. The highly anticipated Kia Tasman pickup truck was spotted being tested alongside a Ford Ranger Raptor. Will the Kia Tasman be able to compete?

What to expect with the Kia Tasman

According to the Korean Car Blog, the boxy Kia Tasman truck could be based on the Kia Telluride or its cousin in other countries, the Kia Mohave. Both are midsize boxy SUVs with rugged features.

However, the new Tasman truck is still being spotted while wearing heavy amounts of camouflage, so we have to wait a little longer to see how its boxy style turns out.

Also, the Tasman has a massive target in its sites. It was spotted going head-to-head against the Ford Ranger Raptor, which is well-equipped for harsh off-roading conditions and desert racing.

In other countries, the Ranger Raptor has a twin-turbo 3.0-liter V6 engine with 288 hp. The American Ranger Raptor provides 405 hp.

The Ford Ranger and Kia Tasman in the snow
Kia Tasman spy shot | Korean Car Blog

The Tasman is rumored to feature a 3.0-liter turbo diesel engine with roughly 260 hp. It might need extra justice to catch the Ranger Raptor in Australia.

Also, we know that Kia has two trucks waiting in the wings. One will be a body-on-frame rugged off-roader, which is probably the Tasman. The other is expected to be a smaller, unibody electric truck.

Only one of these options will come to America. The chicken tax could prevent the Tasman from being affordable in the United States, but we aren’t giving up hope.

If the Tasman is available in the United States, it will have a gas-powered engine that meets our higher emission standards.

It’s not the best time to catch the new Kia truck being tested in Europe instead of America. But we should get more clues by the summer. If it’s already being tested, it could be production-ready.

Features like the built-in bumper step, convenient bed size, utilitarian cabin with upscale materials, and heated/ventilated seats have our motors running. Stay tuned for updates.