Pre-Owned Ford and Chevrolet Trucks Built to Last
March 14 2025,
A Guide for Used Truck Buyers in Halifax and Nova Scotia
If you're in the market for a reliable, hard-working used truck in Halifax, Dartmouth, or anywhere across Nova Scotia, Ford and Chevrolet have consistently been top choices among truck buyers for decades. With a proven track record of performance, capability, and long-term durability, pre-owned Ford and Chevrolet pickups are among the most trusted options for drivers who rely on their truck for both work and daily life.
Whether you're interested in a light-duty model like the Ford F-150 or Chevrolet Silverado 1500, or you need heavy-duty capability from a Super Duty or Silverado HD, the used truck market in Nova Scotia offers a wide range of options with strong performance and dependable engineering. Here's what you need to know when shopping for a pre-owned Ford or Chevrolet truck.
Used Ford F-150: Versatility Meets Everyday Capability
As Canada’s best-selling truck for decades, the Ford F-150 has proven to be one of the most versatile and capable trucks on the used market. Pre-owned F-150 models offer a range of powertrains, cab sizes, and bed lengths, making them suitable for everything from daily commuting to towing a camper through Cape Breton.
Over the years, the F-150 has been available with several engine options, including:
- A 3.3-litre V6 for efficient daily driving
- A 2.7-litre EcoBoost turbocharged V6 with excellent fuel economy
- A 5.0-litre V8 for traditional power and towing confidence
- A 3.5-litre EcoBoost V6 for high-output performance and stronger towing
- A Power Stroke 3.0-litre diesel V6 (available on select models)
Modern F-150 models also feature advanced towing technologies, such as Pro Trailer Backup Assist, integrated trailer brake control, and smart tow ratings ranging from 5,000 lb (2,268 kg) to over 13,000 lb (5,897 kg) depending on configuration and year.
Pre-owned F-150 models from 2018 onward often include available features such as SYNC 3 infotainment, Apple CarPlay® and Android Auto™, heated and ventilated seats, and advanced driver-assist safety technologies—making them both capable and comfortable.
Ford Super Duty: Designed for Heavy-Duty Demands
For those who need serious hauling power, pre-owned Ford Super Duty models—such as the F-250 and F-350—are built to deliver uncompromising performance. These trucks are particularly valuable for tradespeople, contractors, and drivers who frequently tow trailers, heavy equipment, or boats.
Available engines in used Super Duty trucks include:
- A 6.2-litre V8 gas engine, offering solid baseline performance
- A 7.3-litre “Godzilla” V8 (introduced in 2020) with best-in-class gas power
- A 6.7-litre Power Stroke V8 turbo diesel with high torque and long-distance towing capability
Towing capacity varies by year and model but can reach over 21,000 lb (9,525 kg) with proper equipment. Features like integrated trailer brake control, trailer sway control, and smart tow mirrors are common on many trims. Used Super Duty trucks also offer wide-range payload ratings and 4x4 capability, making them ideal for Nova Scotia’s varied terrain and unpredictable weather conditions.
Chevrolet Silverado 1500: Durable and Well-Equipped
The Chevrolet Silverado 1500 has long been a dependable full-size truck option with solid construction, useful technology, and a wide array of engine choices. A used Silverado 1500 from recent years provides strong capability paired with comfort features that are ideal for daily use or long road trips throughout Nova Scotia.
Engine options for used Silverado 1500 models typically include:
- A 4.3-litre V6 for basic reliability
- A 5.3-litre V8, a popular choice for balanced power and towing
- A 6.2-litre V8 for maximum performance and higher towing capacity
- A 2.7-litre turbocharged four-cylinder introduced for efficiency and torque
- A 3.0-litre Duramax inline-six turbo-diesel (available in newer models)
Used Silverado 1500 trucks often include features like GM’s infotainment system with smartphone integration, heated and cooled seats, and available advanced trailering systems. Depending on the engine and configuration, pre-owned Silverado 1500 trucks can tow up to 13,300 lb (6,033 kg), offering excellent versatility for work or recreation.
Chevrolet Silverado HD: Built for the Toughest Jobs
For buyers needing even more muscle, the Chevrolet Silverado HD lineup—offered in 2500 and 3500 versions—provides the heavy-duty capability to handle the most demanding tasks. These trucks are designed with reinforced frames, high payload capacity, and robust towing equipment.
Engine choices include:
- A 6.6-litre V8 gas engine with reliable horsepower and torque
- A 6.6-litre Duramax V8 turbo-diesel engine with up to 910 lb-ft of torque
The Silverado HD, particularly when equipped with the Duramax diesel and Allison transmission, is known for its towing stability and durability over the long haul. Towing capacity for pre-owned Silverado 3500 models can exceed 20,000 lb (9,072 kg) with conventional towing and even higher with a gooseneck setup.
Inside, many used HD models come with dual-zone climate control, power-adjustable seats, and advanced infotainment systems—providing comfort without sacrificing capability.
Final Thoughts: Choosing the Right Truck in Halifax or Dartmouth
Whether you’re hauling construction materials, towing a trailer to the cottage, or simply looking for a dependable daily vehicle that can handle Nova Scotia’s tough winters, a pre-owned Ford or Chevrolet truck is an excellent choice. The wide variety of engines, trims, bed lengths, and cab sizes available in the used market allows buyers to find a truck that suits their exact needs—whether that’s fuel efficiency, towing capacity, or everyday comfort.
At dealerships like Carson Exports in Dartmouth, you’ll find a strong selection of pre-owned Ford F-150, Super Duty, Chevrolet Silverado 1500, and Silverado HD models. With knowledge of Canadian specs and local driving conditions, the team can help match you with the right used truck that’s built to last—on the job site, the road, or the trails.
