Buying a used vehicle that has been driven for a significant number of miles and has had multiple owners over the years is a common occurrence. However, buying used vehicles in today’s economy is a profitable decision. Where even the most basic sedans and SUVs across popular brands cost upwards of $40,000 on average, a used car is available for almost half the cost. Here are the top 5 picks among used cars to buy today. Dodge Dodge is one of the premier automobile brands that stood the test of time with reliable trims that are still in demand. The Dodge Charger is a popular 4-door sedan that even got featured in action and racing movies. The car boasts a sporty 6.2L Hemi V8 engine capable of 712 HP, making it one of the popular picks for used cars to buy for a base price of approximately $21,000 for the 2018 lineup. Dodge even dominated the pickup truck segment when the brand introduced a powerful midsize production truck featuring a 4.7L Magnum V8 engine. The Dodge Dakota was launched as a competitor for Ford and Chevrolet’s truck series. But one of the key highlights is Dakota’s 7000 lbs. towing capacity which made this truck make a comeback year after year.

If one frequently takes a weekend trip to a lake, a road trip through multiple states, or hauls loads for work or passion projects, it is advisable to consider buying a pickup truck. However, the vast pool of automobile brands and models could make it challenging to find the ideal pickup truck. If one cannot figure out which option to go with, here are six top pickup trucks that might be the right fit. Ford F-150 The Ford F-150 is a long-standing and successful competitor where pickup trucks are concerned. The vehicle starts at about $38,000 and is the ideal combination for a modern buyer interested in a feature-rich workhorse. The pickup truck comes with several engine options. The base model features a 325 hp turbocharged 2.7-liter V6, while customers could also pick the 400 hp hybrid powertrain that includes a twin-turbo 3.5-liter V-6 and an electric motor. All engines come with a 10-speed automatic transmission. As for its ability to haul loads, the Ford F-150 has a maximum towing capacity of about 13,000 pounds, with a payload capacity of about 2400 pounds. Chevrolet Silverado 1500 Chevrolet makes some of the best vehicles in the industry, and the Silverado 1500 is one of its crown jewels.

Drivers play a pivotal role in ensuring the smooth flow of goods across the nation. Whether they are behind the wheel of a semi-truck or a pickup truck, drivers must navigate a myriad of challenges and responsibilities. However, the road is fraught with pitfalls, and mistakes might have dire consequences. Here are some mistakes that big rig operators and big and small pickup truck owners should avoid to ensure safety and efficiency on the road. Neglecting vehicle maintenance One of the gravest mistakes big rig operators could make is neglecting regular vehicle maintenance. These massive machines require meticulous care to function optimally. Skipping routine inspections, failing to change oil and filters, or overlooking brake maintenance may lead to catastrophic accidents. Fatigue-induced errors Long-haul truckers often face grueling schedules and demanding deadlines. However, pushing the limits of endurance could lead to fatigue-induced errors. Drowsy driving is a silent but deadly threat on the road. To avoid this mistake, drivers should adhere to mandated rest periods, stay hydrated, and get adequate sleep. Overloading and poor load distribution Overloading a big rig or improperly distributing the load may spell disaster. It affects the truck’s stability, steering, and braking capabilities. Drivers should always adhere to weight limits and ensure that the cargo is distributed in an even manner to avoid putting undue stress on the vehicle.