Hey everyone. I am looking at 2 trucks at the moment. The first one (and my favorite of the 2) is a 2003 chevy silverado 4x4 with a 4.8 liter and 91,000 miles. The second one (plan B) is a 1999 dodge dakota 4x4 with a 3.9 liter v6 and 67,000 miles. The dakota is $1000 cheaper than the silverado. I have always been happy with chevys and I would like at least a 1/2 ton. But money is a big issue. I would either get the chevy and keep it for a very long time, or I would get the dodge and probably not keep it for too long. Is it worth the extra $1000 to get the bigger truck? How long will a well maintained chevy last? How long would the dakota last? Thanks!!

 

I'am a Chev guy so I would say pay the extra and get the Chev
I've owned a 98 Dakota with the 3.9 and love the truck. It was very reliable truck for the 5 years until the tranni went out in it.

 

That's kind of what I'm thinking too. How many miles did the dakota get to? And any estimation on how long the chevy would last? Thanks

 

My Dakota made it to 235,000 before it crapped out on me. I expect towing contributed to it's short life.
As for predicting on how long the Chev truck will last is difficult to say.
Many variables could contribute to how long it will last.
It's mechanical history is important to know.
The true reason why it is for sale now would be good to know.
And your regular maintenance regiment will also be important for
it's longevity

 

It has a new water pump and new brakes all around. He is selling it because he doesn't need it anymore. I think he is getting a newer truck. 235,000 is a pretty good life. I would love to hit that with the chevy if that's what I get. I'm going to look at it in a little while and really figure it out. Will let you know.

 

I have 6 of the GMC/Chevy 1500 model trucks ranging from 1999-2003. All of mine have the 5.3L engine, with all but one having the 4L60 transmission. The highest milage one is at 364,257 miles before the tranny went out. The engine still runs like a champ and doesn't burn or leak anything. My lowest milage one is at 114,000 miles. I would say go for the chevy. I love mine. All of them (i have chevy/GMC trucks ranging from 67-08)

 

I'm hoping to make this one last to over 200,000 miles. Any tips on how to make it last as long as possible?

 

All you need to do is the obvious. Regular maintenance.

As soon as you get your new truck. Change all the fluids and filters.
Then stick to a reg maintenance program of oil changes and filters.
Use nothing but the best in oils and filters.

Depending on were you live... An oil spray of the truck will protect the truck from rust.

 

I live in Maine so the oil spray would be a good idea. I am good at keeping up with maintenance. Would synthetic oil be better for it than conventional?

 

Absolutely