Not all vehicles can do the job of a pickup truck, especially when it comes to towing. These are some of the best used pickup trucks under $20,000 that can tow at least 5,000 pounds. Most have higher tow numbers when paired with stronger engines, except for the Honda Ridgeline truck. That one maxes out at 5,000 pounds, but it is still a good option for buyers who need a light-duty pickup.

The 2011 Toyota Tundra is one of the best used pickup trucks under $20,000

When iSeeCars looked at some of the best used trucks, the 2011 Toyota Tundra was at the top of the list. Of the other 2011 Tundras on the road, 2.9% have over 200,000 miles. The average price for this Toyota truck is around $18,193, coming in just under budget. While there are various ways to configure the Tundra, the average towing capacity comes out to 9,289 pounds.

Toyota is known for its reliable trucks, and the Tundra is a good example. Buyers could opt for the V6 engine or two V8 engines, the strongest of which can tow 10,400 pounds. The base engine gets 16 mpg in the city and 30 mpg on the highway, which is just above average for a full-size pickup.

Honda’s 2013 Ridgeline is another one of the best used trucks under $20,000

People really like the 2013 Honda Ridgeline for its SUV-like comfort and truck-like capability. Around 3% of Ridgelines on the road have 200,000 miles or more, which is the highest out of any other used pickup truck under $20,000. The average price of a 2013 Ridgeline is $18,613, leaving room in the budget for some routine maintenance.

Most Honda Ridgelines trucks have an average towing capacity of 5,000 pounds, which is enough for most situations. That makes it suitable for most light-duty towing situations. The Ridgeline might not be the most capable choice if you tow heavy amounts regularly. The V6 engine gets 250 hp and is powerful enough for most buyers. Honda also equipped the Ridgeline with features like cruise control, a power sliding rear window, and a rearview camera.

Don’t overlook the 2013 Chevrolet Silverado 1500

For the best used pickup trucks under $20,000, it would be a mistake to ignore the 2013 Chevrolet Silverado 1500. iSeeCars says 2.0% of Silverado trucks on the road have more than 200,000 miles on the odometer. With an average towing capacity of 7,063 pounds, this Chevy truck is a good option for buyers. It can tow up to 10,700 pounds when properly equipped.

The average price for the 2013 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 is $18,216. Buyers who want a full-size truck that comes with a few engine choices will be happy to know the Silverado has four options. These options include a 4.3L V6, a 4.8L V8, a 5.3L V8, and a 6.2L V8. On top of that, the Silverado has three body styles and five trim levels to choose from.

These are the top three options if you need a versatile used pickup truck under $20,000. If you need a light-duty or full-size option, one of these trucks from Ford, Chevrolet, and Honda should check all the boxes.