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Craigslist Used Diesel Trucks for Sale Near Me: Your Guide to Finding the Best Local Deals GuideMechanic.Com If you’re looking for used diesel trucks for sale near you, Craigslist is one of the best places to start.
Whether you need a powerful daily driver, a work-ready dually, or a reliable tow rig, Craigslist lets you connect directly with owners — often at prices far below dealership listings.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through how to find diesel trucks for sale by owner on Craigslist, what models are most common, price expectations in 2025, and tips for making a smart, safe purchase.
Why Buy a Diesel Truck on Craigslist?
See Also: Craigslist 4×4 Trucks Under $5000
More Torque, More Towing Power
Diesel trucks are built for tough jobs — towing, hauling, and off-roading. They offer longer engine life and better fuel economy under load.
Lower Prices Than Dealerships
Craigslist sellers are usually private individuals, which means no dealer fees or markup. Plus, there’s room for negotiation.
Local Pickup, Fast Deals
You can find diesel trucks in your city or surrounding areas, inspect them yourself, and complete the transaction without the dealership wait.
Best Diesel Truck Brands & Models Found on Craigslist
When searching Craigslist, these are the diesel trucks you’re most likely to come across:
| Make & Model | Engine Type | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Ford F-250 / F-350 Super Duty | Power Stroke Diesel | Known for power, reliability, and strong resale value |
| Dodge Ram 2500 / 3500 | Cummins Turbo Diesel | Legendary straight-six engine, popular with builders |
| Chevy Silverado 2500 / 3500 | Duramax Diesel | Durable, great for towing, quieter than older diesels |
| GMC Sierra HD | Duramax Diesel | Same platform as Silverado, often better trim packages |
| Ford Excursion Diesel SUV | 7.3L or 6.0L Power Stroke | Huge SUV with diesel heart, increasingly collectible |
Tip: The 7.3L Power Stroke and 5.9L 24V Cummins are two of the most sought-after pre-emissions diesel engines.
Craigslist Diesel Truck Price Table (2025)
Here’s a breakdown of typical diesel truck prices by model and condition when buying from private sellers:
| Truck Type | Model Year | Price Range | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Older work diesel trucks | 1995–2003 | $5,000 – $10,000 | High mileage, usually 7.3L or 12v/24v Cummins |
| Mid-2000s diesel 4×4 trucks | 2004–2012 | $9,000 – $18,000 | Mix of condition — emissions vs. pre-emissions |
| Newer used diesel trucks | 2013–2019 | $18,000 – $35,000 | DEF systems, cleaner interiors, more tech |
| Dually diesel trucks (3500/4500) | 2000–2020 | $10,000 – $40,000+ | Ideal for towing trailers, 5th wheels, etc. |
| Project diesel trucks | Any year | $2,000 – $7,000 | Needs engine/transmission work |
Warning: Trucks under $10K often have over 200k+ miles — check for leaks, blow-by, and rusted frames.
How to Search Craigslist for Diesel Trucks Near You
Steps:
- Go to Craigslist.org
- Select your metro area or nearby cities
- Click “Cars+Trucks – By Owner”
Use keywords like:
- “diesel truck”
- “Power Stroke”
- “Duramax”
- “Cummins”
- “diesel 4×4”
- Set your price filters (e.g. min $3,000 – max $25,000)
Search Tips:
- Try different spellings: “dually,” “dualie,” or “dualie truck”
- Look in multiple cities (within 100–200 miles)
- Save your searches and check daily — good diesel trucks go fast!
What to Look for When Inspecting a Craigslist Diesel Truck
Diesel engines last longer — but only when maintained well. Here’s what to check before buying:
Engine & Mechanical
- Cold start performance (listen for rough idle or white smoke)
- Turbo whine and boost response
- Signs of blow-by (pull oil cap, check for smoke)
- Transmission shifting (especially on heavy-duty automatics)
- Check for leaks under the engine and transmission
Title & Paperwork
- Clean title in seller’s name
- Maintenance records (oil changes, injectors, transmission work)
- VIN check for accidents or salvage history
Body & Frame
- Rust around wheel wells and frame rails
- Check the bed, tailgate, and cab corners
- Inspect suspension (many HD trucks have aftermarket lifts)
Best States to Find Craigslist Diesel Trucks
Diesel trucks are more common in rural and working-class regions where towing is a daily task:
| Region | Why It’s Good |
|---|---|
| Texas | Huge supply, dually heaven |
| Arizona / Nevada | Rust-free older trucks, desert climates |
| Montana / Idaho | Working trucks with solid maintenance |
| Florida (inland) | Retirees downsizing heavy trucks |
| Midwest (Iowa, MO) | Farm-use trucks at fair prices |
Avoid: Northeast/Midwest trucks if you’re concerned about frame rust or salted-road corrosion.
Are Craigslist Diesel Trucks Worth It?
Absolutely — if you know what to look for. Diesel trucks cost more to repair than gas trucks, so a thorough inspection is key. But when maintained properly, they can last 300,000+ miles easily.
Craigslist sellers may be mechanics, farmers, contractors, or even families upgrading to newer models. These private owners often have trucks with upgrades like fifth-wheel hitches, lift kits, or bulletproofed engines, all at a discount.
Sample Craigslist Search Phrases
Here are real search examples that can help you find trucks in your area:
- “Cummins diesel truck for sale near me”
- “Duramax 4×4 craigslist by owner”
- “Powerstroke diesel pickup under $10,000”
- “Diesel dually for sale craigslist Arizona”
- “Craigslist heavy duty diesel truck by owner only”
Use your city name or nearby metro areas to refine the results. Don’t be afraid to travel a bit for the right truck — many deals are worth the drive.
Final Tips Before You Buy
Bring a diesel-savvy friend or mechanic if you’re not sure what to look for
Always test drive, even if the seller says “runs great”
Ask for VIN, undercarriage photos, and cold start videos
Avoid sellers who won’t meet in person or rush you to buy
Cash talks — many sellers prefer cash-in-hand over financing hassles
Final Thoughts
Finding a used diesel truck for sale near you on Craigslist can be one of the smartest ways to save money while getting maximum power and capability.
Whether you’re hauling equipment, towing a trailer, or just want the torque of a diesel engine, the local market is full of potential — you just need to know how to spot it.
With proper research, good timing, and a careful inspection, you can land a diesel truck that runs strong and lasts for years.
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