5 Summer Truck Projects For Under $5000

America: land of the free and home of the truck. And while there are more trucks in the US than people (probably), the bummer with having one is that they’re more expensive than your little daily sedan. To rock a bare-bones budget, you’ve got to do your shopping first. Stick to modest changes to make a used truck safe and reliable, so you can jazz it up later as your own budget allows.

The first rule of buying a project truck is: don’t bite off more than you can chew. Who am I kidding? That’s just what you’ll do. It’s what we all do. Here are some ideas to get you warmed up.

Before you start shopping, consider these points…

Compare prices:

Don’t jump at the first thing you see in your budget. Start looking at prices online long before you’re ready to buy, so that you get an understanding of what a good deal looks like. For the examples here, we found great deals on trucks that we in good running condition with little to no body damage. Prices will vary by area, but keep your eyes peeled for a low price and low mileage.

Drive it, touch it, look under the hood…

And check every inch of the truck before buying it. I can’t count the number of times I’ve heard stories of a buyer’s remorse from neglecting to catch a problem during the inspection and test drive.

Negotiate

Play hard ball. Don’t just settle on a price. Make an offer and push for it because every bit of cash you save here can be put into enhancing your new ride.

Check for recalls

In the US, there are recalls on virtually every vehicle. Take a quick moment to look on recalls.gov for the make and model you are purchasing. If there are any recalls that have not been fixed, you can take your truck to a nearby dealer who is legally obligated to fix the problem free of charge.

Focus on safety first when buying parts

Do a complete tune-up by changing all your fluids, filters, plugs and any worn belts. Make sure your truck can make it down the road for your daily commute without problems before aiming for badass mods. It would be a shame to roll up with nice new wheels and squeeky brakes, so prioritise your parts.

1. Dodge Ram 1500

Pros: Rams are tough inside and out. These trucks are loved for their ability to haul tough loads and take on extreme terrain. Their rugged body and frame ages well, so you don’t have to worry about rust and bad paint if you’re shopping for an older model.

Cons: Most often, Rams are used as work trucks, which have been put through hell and high mileage. While the body may not reveal its past, the interior and engine likely will. The interior is one of the Ram’s weak spots. It will look good knew, but accessories will break, seats will tear and the dash will crack long before those of its rivals.

Project Scenario:

$3700 2004 Ram 1500 SLT with a 5.7-litre V8 Hemi Magnum
$149 Change Fluids, Filters, Wires, Etc
$399 Cover
$199 Shock Absorbers
$499 Tyres
$4946 Total

2. Nissan Frontier

Pros: Frontiers are amazing for a smaller truck. They handle extremely well, and the front seats are roomy. Although they can tow, most Frontiers are not used for work trucks like the Rams. This means you’ll have an easier time finding one with less wear and tear. Frontiers are easy on fuel and reliable even with high mileage.

Cons: While it’s all personal preference, the truck’s exterior isn’t charming. It has neither a tough nor a sporty look, but a unique one. Back seat passengers will be cramped from little space, and the short bed doesn’t give much room for transporting big items. The Frontier is best suited as a casual daily with occasional off-roading fun.

Project Scenario:

$ 4,000 2005 Nissan Frontier SE Crew Cab with 4.0-litre V6
$149 Change Fluids, Filters, Wires, Etc.
$399 Wheels
$489 Tyres
$4987 Total

3. Ford F-150

Pros: There are so many F-150s on the road that you’re bound to find one at a low cost and parts galore. In addition, there are thousands of good (and bad) videos online from other F-150 owners to help you set out on your project. The drivetrain and suspension hold up nicely through the years, even under heavy use.

Cons: These are also notorious work trucks, so you’ll have to watch out for the ones that have taken too much abuse. The F-150’s interior is nothing special, and you can forget about the luxury feel of having everything at your fingertips while driving. Bench seats are also a bummer. The home mechanic will find that the engine bay is rather cramped, and getting to some commonly swapped parts can be a chore.

Project Scenario:

$3000 2000 F150 XLT Standard Cab with 4.2-litre V6
$149 Change Fluids, Filters, Wires, Etc.
$399 Suspension
$449 Wheels
$499 Tyres
$279 Brush Guard
$199 Valve Covers and Gaskets
$4,974 Total

4. Toyota 4Runner

Pros: 4Runners will last forever. They are not known for having many major problems, and just doing regular tune-ups should do the trick. 4Runners handle great in any weather, and love to be taken off road. Their interiors are huge, making them perfect for driving a load of passengers.

Cons: Unfortunately, these trucks are underpowered. With so much weight to pull, the poor engine can only do so much. It doesn’t ruin the experience, though. A common problem with 4Runners is engine sludge. After about 100K miles, you will want to pull the head and do a major clean before replacing the head and valve cover gaskets.

Project Scenario:

$3500 2001 4Runner with 3.4-litre V6
$149 Change Fluids, Filters, Wires, Etc
$179 Brush Guard
$399 Wheels
$499 Tyres
$249 Light Bar
$4,975 Total

5. Chevy S10

Pros: With a range of options, you can find an S10 for a good daily commuter or an adventurous off-roader. If you’re only looking for a truck to have a bed (and are less concerned about mudding or towing), then a fuel efficient four-cylinder could be just your type. Like Ford F-150s, these trucks are abundant. There will be no trouble hunting for new and used parts, and the prices will keep your wallet happy.

Cons: If you buy an automatic (don’t), the transmission will likely go bad earlier than expected. It’s one of the most hated and expensive parts to replace. The S10 body is more susceptible to rust than the others in this list. The interior is cramped no matter which seat you take, and it doesn’t offer anything beyond your typical gauges, A/C and radio dash.

Project Scenario:

$3600 2002 Chevy S10 with 4.3-litre V6
$149 Change Fluids, Filters, Wires, Etc
$599 Wheels
$449 Tyres
$169 Racing Seats
$4966 Total

If you’ve got a summer project you’d like to share, let us know below with a link to your CT Garage!