Everyone enjoys the thrill of off-roading and playing in the dirt. There is always fun to be had with dirt bikes or ATVs. But what a change of pace with a 4x4 vehicle that you can use as an everyday commuter, then drive to the dirt, pull off, switch to 4x4, and go.
Updated September 2023: 4x4s are among the best vehicles you can take off-road. Nowadays, most manufacturers are moving towards creating off-road capable SUVs, most of which never set foot on the dirt. If you're a 4x4 aficionado, this updated list includes the best vehicles you can get for under $20,000, along with their reliability information.
When searching for a 4x4, there are many options available that can fit within any budget. Acquiring one that is reliable does not necessarily mean having to buy brand new. There are many options that you can buy for $20,000 and under. When buying any used vehicle, be aware it may have seen many miles. However, it can still be a splendid choice if it got regular maintenance.
When considering any used vehicle, getting a mechanical inspection before purchasing may give peace of mind that nothing major is already happening. Do not need an expensive surprise right after bringing your “new to you” pride and joy home. Check out 17 of the most reliable 4x4s under $20,000.
All informational data for this article was retrieved from popular automotive websites such as Kelly Blue Book, CarEdge, RepairPal, Car Survey, Consumer Reports, Edmunds and J.D. Power. The vehicle model's manufacturers' websites were also used for any relevant data.
17 2010 Toyota Tacoma
The Toyota Tacoma is a powerful, mid-size truck that has existed since 1995. It has continued to be a popular truck with drivers for many years thanks to its style, reliability, and holding value.
Reliability
The TRD Edition adds upgraded suspension to handle even more off-roading craziness. While the modern Tacoma is a bit more expensive, slightly used models are easily available for much less. To get one under $20,000, a model from 2011 and older would be ideal.
- Problems Owners Report: Excessive oil consumption, chipping paint, electrical issues regarding the infotainment.
- Highest Mileage Reported: 329,185 miles
16 2013 Ford F-150
Ford’s F-150 holds the honor of being the best-selling pickup truck for over 40 years. It is a known workhorse that will take on any off-roading challenge.
Reliability
Ford started production of the F-150 in the 1940s and is currently in its 13th generation. A 2014 or older model would fit the under $20,000 budget. These models are reasonably modern and have a lot of tech and performance to offer.
- Problems Owners Report: Overheating wiring looms, faulty rear window defrosters, power steering issues which lead to Limp Mode.
- Highest Mileage Reported: 236,820 miles
15 2011 Nissan Pathfinder
The Nissan Pathfinder is maybe not one of the first choices for an off-road vehicle, but the older models will take on the challenge with a few modifications. The Pathfinder has plenty of room and can move the family around when it is not being used for off-roading.
Reliability
To pick one up for under $20,000, start with the 2015 model year and older. The more recent models of the Pathfinder received plenty of tech upgrades, including a rear cross-traffic alert and a blind spot warning system. If you're looking for the best off-road skill, you'll be better off with the more rugged pre-2012 Pathfinders.
- Problems Owners Report: Weird noises from the front of the engine, random 'check engine' lights, failure of fuel sensor.
- Highest Mileage Reported: 228,089 miles
14 2012 Nissan Xterra
The Nissan Xterra offers comfort and excellent handling, whether on pavement or off-road, due to its chassis. It is roomy enough to haul any needed gear and sleep in the back on overnight adventures.
Reliability
In production from 1999 to 2015, a buyer would need to look for around a 2012 model or older to keep the budget under $20,000. These models were among the last truly capable off-road SUVs. Luckily enough, the Xterra was among the few tolerable daily driver 4x4s.
- Problems Owners Report: Defective fuel sensor causing vehicle to show incorrect fuel level.
- Highest Mileage Reported: 193,691 miles
13 2010 Toyota FJ Cruiser
The Toyota FJ Cruiser has a bit of a “tank-ish” unique look. But its Toyota reliability and dependability make up for it. While it has a cramped rear seat, the FJ Cruiser is one of the best off-road-themed SUVs. Some models of the FJ Cruiser boast functional off-road hardware, including 16-inch bead-lock wheels, a thicker front skid plate, all-terrain tires, and an upgraded TRD-tuned suspension.
Reliability
The Active Traction Control on the FJ will get you over or through any obstacle in your off-roading path. To pick one up for a budget of $20,000, start looking for one from 2011 or older.
- Problems Owners Report: Faulty power steering causing shaky steering wheel, loos foot-rest pedal causing issues, shuddering engine on start-up, driveshaft failure if not maintained.
- Highest Mileage Reported: 311,457 miles
12 2011 Toyota 4Runner
If considering a Toyota 4Runner for off-roading, look at the Trail trim level with the 4WD. This trim level comes with some upgrades needed to take on off-road adventures.
Reliability
The 4Runner is a reliable and rugged body-on-frame SUV that will serve as everyday transportation when not off-roading. The 2015 and older 4Runners are among the best versions to get for under the $20,000 mark.
- Problems Owners Report: Power steering causing wheel wobble, high mileage automatic transmission missing gears.
- Highest Mileage Reported: 301,899 miles
11 2010 Jeep Wrangler
The name Jeep Wrangler is synonymous with off-roading or 4x4-ing. Don’t expect the most comfortable ride on the pavement, though. However, it can easily tackle obstacles, mud, gravel, and rocks off the beaten path.
Reliability
The Jeep Wrangler gives you the option of open-air adventures by taking off the doors and roof. You will need to look at models from 2011 and older to get one under the $20,000 mark.
- Problems Owners Report: High mileage automatic transmissions struggling with hill starts, leaking soft-top roofs, throttle position sensor failing.
- Highest Mileage Reported: 234,011 miles
10 2012 Jeep Grand Cherokee
The Jeep Grand Cherokee offers comfort on-road and off-road. The models powered by a Hemi V8 have a towing capacity of up to 7,400 lbs, allowing you to take extra toys or a travel trailer to your destination.
Reliability
Before buying the Jeep Grand Cherokee, consider one without pending problems, especially any recalls. To find one under the $20,000 budget, look at models from 2013 or older.
- Problems Owners Report: Electrical problems causing stalling, vehicle sometimes refuses to start when jumping, Totally Integrated Power Module failure (common).
- Highest Mileage Reported: 276,311 miles
9 2013 Toyota Tundra
The Toyota Tundra comes with the reliability and dependability of Toyota. But being a full-size truck, there may be some issues fitting through, or turning around in, the narrow off-road trails.
Reliability
The Tundra offers plenty of power, room for passengers, and room for gear. Then there is the truck bed, which can work as a bed for overnight trips. To fit a spending budget under the $20,000 mark, consider a 2014 or older model.
- Problems Owners Report: Steering wheel vibrations, power steering failure on high mileage models, excessive oil consumption, chipping paint.
- Highest Mileage Reported: 278,091 miles
8 2000 Dodge Ram 2500
The Dodge Ram 2500 Diesel offers powerful off-road adventures. With the option of a 5.9L or 6.7L Cummins Diesel under the hood, there is enough power to get through anything. And, of course, there is enough power to pull any extra toys for more fun times.
Reliability
To find one of these beasts under $20,000, you will need to look at the model year of 2011 and older.
- Problems Owners Report: Rust, corrosion, electrics failure, powersteering failure on high mileage models.
- Highest Mileage Reported: 276,321 miles
7 2013 Nissan Titan
When looking at the Nissan Titan for off-roading excitement, look for the Pro-4X package or model. It includes off-road upgrades to the shock absorbers, locking diff, upgraded battery, heavy-duty skid plates, and larger all-terrain tires.
Reliability
A 2014 model year or older will typically fit the $20,000 budget.
- Problems Owners Report: Leaky rear axle seals, fuel pump failure, engine and transmission corrosion, overheating.
- Highest Mileage Reported: 289,221 miles
6 1971 Chevy K5 Blazer
The Chevy Blazer is not one of the biggest off-road vehicles available, but it definitely can do the job. The smaller K5 was in production from 1983 to 2005. It became popular due to its sportiness and ability to go just about anywhere.
Reliability
Due to their age, there are great deals to be had under the $20,000 mark. The newer iterations can be a bit expensive; however, they cannot match the off-road capability of the predecessor.
- Problems Owners Report: Power-assisted brake failure, rust on the front chassis, rust around body mounts, rust around door panels.
- Highest Mileage Reported: 336,519 miles
5 2008 Lexus GX470 4WD
If you want a touch of luxury in your off-road vehicle, the Lexus GX470 4WD fits the bill. It contains technological gadgets and interior comfort. The exterior is more rugged than luxurious and is ready to take on any off-road challenges.
Reliability
It is not known for its fuel economy or low fuel costs, especially requiring prime fuel. To obtain one of these luxury off-roaders for under $20,000, start looking at the model year 2009 and older. Thanks to its affiliation with Toyota, you're sure that your Lexus will be reliable for years to come.
- Problems Owners Report: Thermostat failure, overheating transmission, water pump failure, electrical problems regarding the sunroof.
- Highest Mileage Reported: 398,209 miles
4 2011 Land Rover LR4
Even though the Land Rover LR4 is an upscale, luxury vehicle, its sole purpose was to tackle off-road adventures when it’s time to have fun. Land Rover takes the off-roading experience so seriously that they have Land Rover Experience Centers over the globe where drivers can book time with a qualified instructor to learn off-roading skills.
Reliability
If a Land Rover LR4 at $20,000 or fewer suits your interest, look at model years 2012 or older. Despite being a replacement for the Discovery, the LR4 offers better performance with its hard-charging 5.0 liter V8. Its interior, electrical architecture and Terrain Response System also boast many changes.
- Problems Owners Report: Air suspension failure, water pump leaks, timing chain failure.
- Highest Mileage Reported: 231,887 miles
3 1993 Suzuki Samurai
In production from 1986 to 1995, the “Sami” was by no means a luxury vehicle. It had a bare-bones interior but an engine that could take on anything. Even though it is small compared to other off-road vehicles, the Suzuki Samurai is still popular with off-road enthusiasts.
Reliability
The Samurai was a big deal for Suzuki since it was their first model in the United States. Thankfully, the Samurai was an instant hit with its peppy 1.3-liter 4-cylinder engine. Despite being a unique and short-lived model, Samurai models are getting tougher to find, but worth the effort for 4x4-ing fun for under $20,000.
- Problems Owners Report: Above average oil consumption, poor fuel efficiency, tendency to roll over when cornering slightly quickly.
- Highest Mileage Reported: 137,201 miles
2 1993 Jeep Cherokee
The Jeep Cherokee XJ is one of the most instantly recognizable off-roaders on the planet. Between 1983 and 2001, three different companies manufactured the XJ Cherokee at six assembly plants all over the world. Jeep built just under three million Cherokee XJs and Grand Cherokee ZJs, resulting in them becoming quite the cheap and popular off-roading option - even for the most amateur of enthusiasts. It also helps that the Cherokee models on the used market is so cheap.
Reliability
The Cherokee XJ is a sturdy and pretty reliable hunk of metal and plastic that will continue to perform admirably if the owner takes care of it. Many owners have put well over 300,000 miles on their vehicles, and they are still going. The 4.0-liter straight-6 is a pretty good engine, even if it is a bit on the slow side. The XJ Cherokee also looks fantastic and will likely still be with us into infinity.
- Problems Owners Report: Valve cover oil leaks, oil leaks from oil pan, rust, engine problems mostly with the diesel.
- Highest Mileage Reported: 296,297 miles
1 2010 Nissan Frontier
The Nissan Frontier - known as the Navara in international markets - is an excellent Japanese take on the small/medium truck. The US Frontier got a choice between a 4.0-liter or 3.8-liter V6 and an auto or manual transmission. The Frontier may not have the most exciting styling or interior, but it is pretty dependable overall.
Reliability
Many Frontiers are still going strong - even after Nissan recalled them for weak chassis points. With a little modification, the Frontier is just as good off-road as any other trail-specific vehicle - with traditional Japanese reliability there to back it up. Best of all? The Frontier can now be yours for well under $20,000.
- Problems Owners Report: Premature transmission failure, corrosion where the body meets the bed, radiator leaks, rusty distributor shaft bearings leading to engine stalls and failures.
- Highest Mileage Reported: 310,566 miles