Craigslist Project Trucks for Sale Cheap

Craigslist Project Trucks for Sale Cheap

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Craigslist Project Trucks for Sale Cheap: Where to Find Your Next Build GuideMechanic.Com Are you hunting for a project truck to restore, rebuild, or customize — without spending a fortune? Craigslist is a goldmine for cheap project trucks, often listed by owners who simply want them gone.

Whether you’re into classic restorations, diesel swaps, off-road builds, or rat rods, you’ll find plenty of cheap trucks for sale on Craigslist that are perfect for your next garage project.

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Craigslist Project Trucks for Sale Cheap

See Also: Craigslist Barn Find Pickup Trucks

What Is a Project Truck?

A project truck is a pickup or work truck that needs work — mechanical, cosmetic, or both. It may not run, or it might just need some TLC to be roadworthy again.

Common types include:

  • Old trucks with rust or bad paint
  • Non-running pickups with solid frames
  • Classic trucks missing engines or interiors
  • 4x4s with broken transmissions
  • Diesel trucks with engine issues

These trucks are often sold cheap, making them ideal for DIYers and hobbyists.

Why Buy a Project Truck on Craigslist?

Craigslist has tons of listings posted by:

  • Owners cleaning out their yards
  • People giving up on unfinished projects
  • Sellers needing quick cash

Since you’re dealing directly with the owner, you can often negotiate an even lower price and get the full backstory.

Pros:

  • Huge selection, often local
  • No dealer markup
  • Ideal for hobby builds or budget restorations
  • Easy to find classics and 4x4s

Popular Project Trucks Found on Craigslist

Craigslist Project Trucks for Sale Cheap

Here are the most common types of project trucks you’ll find:

Truck Model Project Appeal Why It’s Popular
Chevy C10 (1960s–80s) Restoration, resto-mod Classic body lines, parts availability
Ford F-Series (1970s–90s) Rust repair, diesel swap, lift builds Cheap to buy, endless mods
Dodge D-Series/Ram Mopar loyalists, off-road builds Underrated classics
Toyota Hilux/Tacoma Overland builds, diesel conversions Legendary durability
Jeep Comanche 4×4 trails, budget off-roader Unique and rare
Square body trucks Custom hot rods, slammed builds Bold looks, easy to modify
Old farm/work trucks Utility rebuilds, patina projects Usually cheap with cool character

Craigslist Project Trucks – Price Table (2025)

Truck Model Typical Condition Price Range Comments
Chevy C10 (1970–1987) Rolling shell to partial runner $1,500 – $6,000 Prices rising fast for solid frames
Ford F-100/F-150 (1975–1995) Rusty but running $1,200 – $5,500 Great entry project truck
Dodge Ram (1980s–90s) May need drivetrain work $1,000 – $4,500 Less common = cheaper
Toyota Pickup (1985–1995) Runs rough or no motor $2,500 – $6,000 Still highly sought after
Jeep Comanche Rust or trans issues $1,800 – $4,000 Harder to find, but cheap when available
GMC Sierra (1988–1998) Cosmetic damage, high miles $1,500 – $4,500 Perfect for resto-mod or street builds
1990s 4x4s (mixed brands) Non-running/off-road rigs $1,000 – $3,500 Good for trail builds or parts rigs

Tip: Sellers often list these as “not running,” “needs work,” or “project truck.” Use those terms when searching.

Craigslist Project Trucks for Sale Cheap

How to Search Craigslist for Cheap Project Trucks

Smart Search Terms to Try:

Use these keywords to filter for the good stuff:

  • “Project truck”
  • “Roller” or “rolling chassis”
  • “Needs motor” or “no engine”
  • “Not running”
  • “Barn find”
  • “Farm truck”
  • “Parts truck”
  • “Cheap truck, needs work”

How to Search:

  • Go to your local Craigslist (choose your region)
  • Select “cars+trucks – by owner”
  • Set max price to $5,000 or $10,000
  • Use terms like:
  • project truck
  • classic truck cheap
  • 4×4 non-running
  • C10 roller
  • Ford F100 needs engine

Green Flags:

  • Clean title or no title issues
  • Straight frame (check for accident damage)
  • Solid cab corners and bed floor
  • Engine turns over, even if it doesn’t run
  • Clear, honest description from seller

Red Flags:

  • Seller says “ran when parked” (could mean anything)
  • Frame rust or big holes
  • No VIN or lost title
  • No keys or wheels
  • Bad flip jobs with spray-can paint

Best Craigslist Project Trucks by Purpose

Craigslist Project Trucks for Sale Cheap

Build Goal Recommended Trucks Why
Classic restoration C10, F100, early Dodge D-series Vintage appeal, collectible value
Off-road 4×4 Jeep Comanche, Tacoma, Ranger 4×4 Affordable, easy to modify
Diesel swap build F-250, Ram 2500, 1980s Chevy 3/4-ton Space for big engines, solid axles
Slammed cruiser Square-body GM trucks Great aftermarket support
Budget hot rod Old Ford stepsides, late-70s Chevys Cool patina and cheap entry cost

Example Listings Found on Craigslist (2025)

Listing Title Location Price Highlights
“1985 Chevy C10, roller only, no engine” Oklahoma $2,000 Solid frame, needs full drivetrain
“1979 F-150, not running, project” Georgia $1,500 Good bones, surface rust only
“1994 Toyota 4×4 – blown head gasket” Oregon $2,800 Clean title, runs but overheats
“1983 Dodge D150 – full project” Texas $1,200 Needs everything, but complete body
“1990 GMC Sierra, lowered, no trans” California $3,500 Built for custom or LS swap

Craigslist Project Trucks for Sale Cheap

Tips for Buying Your First Project Truck

  • Bring tools: Magnet (for rust), jump box, flashlight
  • Ask questions: Why is it parked? How long? Any parts missing?
  • Inspect carefully: Floors, frame rails, wheel wells
  • Plan storage: Make sure you have a garage or safe spot to keep it
  • Budget extra: You’ll spend at least $1k–$3k more to get it driving

When to Buy for the Best Deals

  • Winter: Fewer buyers, sellers desperate to clear space
  • End of summer: People abandon projects before moving
  • Post-tax season (April–May): Influx of used and half-finished vehicles

Final Thoughts

Craigslist project trucks for sale cheap are perfect if you’re ready to roll up your sleeves. These trucks aren’t showroom-ready — but with the right skills, tools, and patience, you can turn a $2,000 roller into a $15,000 classic.

Keep your eyes open, move fast on the good ones, and always bring a trailer (because many won’t drive home). In return, you’ll get a one-of-a-kind truck built by your own hands.

Mechanic