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Why Trucks Dominate South Dakota Roads
South Dakota consistently ranks among the top states for truck ownership. This is a state where a vehicle has to do more than commute.
- 4x4 is a necessity, not a luxury. Six inches of overnight snow, muddy field access roads in spring — four-wheel drive keeps you moving when everything else stops.
- Towing and hauling demand. From fifth-wheel campers headed to the Black Hills to livestock trailers and ranch equipment, towing capacity drives the decision for thousands of SD buyers.
- Durability on gravel. Over 50% of South Dakota's roads are unpaved. A full-size truck with proper ground clearance handles those miles without complaint.
- Crew cab comfort. Modern half-tons have evolved. Interiors rival midsize SUVs for passenger space, and features like heated seats and driver-assist tech make the daily Sioux Falls commute just as capable as any crossover.
Ford F-150 — America's Best Seller
What Makes the F-150 Stand Out
- Engine choices: 2.7L EcoBoost V6, 5.0L V8, or the 3.5L EcoBoost twin-turbo — more powertrain options than any competitor. The 3.5L EcoBoost is the towing favorite: V8 power, V6 fuel economy.
- Towing: Up to 13,200 lbs. Pro Trailer Backup Assist (2016+) makes hitching and reversing significantly easier.
- Aluminum body: Military-grade aluminum alloy since 2015 — less weight, better fuel economy, and strong rust resistance. A real advantage in a state that salts its roads heavily.
- Interior: Lariat and King Ranch trims bring leather, heated/cooled seats, and large touchscreens. Even mid-range XLT models are well-equipped.
- Parts availability: The most popular truck on the road — any shop in Sioux Falls can service it.
Ram 1500 — The Comfort King
What Makes the Ram 1500 Stand Out
- Ride quality: Coil-spring rear suspension (or optional air suspension) delivers a ride closer to an SUV than a work truck. Sioux Falls to Rapid City — the difference is noticeable.
- Interior: The 2019+ redesign took the segment by storm. The available 12-inch Uconnect touchscreen is one of the largest and most responsive in any vehicle, truck or otherwise.
- Towing: Up to 12,750 lbs with the 5.7L HEMI V8. eTorque mild-hybrid adds electric assist for smoother starts and slightly better fuel economy.
- RamBox: Optional lockable, illuminated, drainable storage bins built into the bed walls. Ranchers and contractors love them.
- Rear legroom: Best-in-class crew cab rear legroom. Families who need truck capability without sacrificing passenger space take note.
Chevrolet Silverado 1500 — The Proven Workhorse
What Makes the Silverado Stand Out
- Engine lineup: 2.7L turbo four-cylinder, 5.3L V8, 6.2L V8, or Duramax 3.0L inline-six turbo-diesel (2020+) — outstanding fuel economy and torque for towing.
- Towing: Up to 13,300 lbs — a slight edge over the Ram. Advanced Trailering System with multiple camera views makes towing safer.
- Durability: GM's truck platform has a well-earned reputation for longevity. Silverados with 200,000+ miles are common on South Dakota roads.
- Value: Custom and LT trims are consistently priced competitively on the used market — strong capability without premium-trim prices.
- Bed: Widest bed in class at the floor. Available Multi-Flex tailgate (2021+) adds real versatility.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Feature | Ford F-150 | Ram 1500 | Chevy Silverado |
|---|---|---|---|
| Max Towing | ~13,200 lbs | ~12,750 lbs | ~13,300 lbs |
| Top Engine | 3.5L EcoBoost / 5.0L V8 | 5.7L HEMI V8 | 6.2L V8 / 3.0L Diesel |
| 4x4 Available | Yes — all trims | Yes — all trims | Yes — all trims |
| Ride Quality | Good | Best in class | Good |
| Interior | Very good (Lariat+) | Best in class | Good (High Country strong) |
| Used Value | Strong resale | Competitive pricing | Best value |
| Best For | Versatility & towing | Comfort & refinement | Durability & value |
Why Buy Used Right Now
- Depreciation works for you. A truck that was $55,000 new may be $32,000–$38,000 with 30,000–50,000 miles. Tens of thousands back in your pocket for a vehicle with years of life left.
- Tariffs don't affect used inventory. New vehicles are absorbing tariff costs on steel, aluminum, and imported parts. Used trucks on the lot today were built before those increases hit.
- Modern trucks last. A well-maintained F-150, Ram, or Silverado with 50,000 miles is barely broken in. With Frankman's full service center behind every vehicle, you drive confidently.
- More truck for the money. Your budget often reaches one or two trim levels higher on a used truck — leather, premium audio, advanced towing packages included.
What to Look For in South Dakota
Shopping for a truck here is different than shopping in Texas or Florida. Keep these SD-specific factors in mind:
- True 4x4, not just AWD. Low-range 4x4 matters for deep snow and off-pavement situations. Verify the transfer case, not just the marketing badge.
- Heated seats and remote start. After one January morning at -15°F, you will not regret holding out for these features.
- Undercarriage rust inspection. South Dakota salts its roads. Have the frame and undercarriage inspected — or buy from a dealer with a full service center that does this before listing.
- Factory tow package. If you tow anything, make sure the package includes a wiring harness, trailer brake controller, and proper hitch receiver. Aftermarket add-ons are not the same.
- Tire condition. Good rubber makes more difference on icy roads than almost any other single factor. Ask about tread depth and age.
Why Frankman Motor Company
Family-owned since 1988. Largest independent used dealer in the five-state area. We do not answer to a manufacturer — we answer to you.
- 181+ vehicles in stock. Trucks, SUVs, cars, and classic vehicles — deep selection at all times.
- No franchise markup. No manufacturer quotas, no market adjustments, no mandatory dealer packages.
- Full-service support. On-site service center, body shop, and restoration shop — we stand behind every vehicle we sell.
- 50,000+ vehicles sold across South Dakota, Minnesota, Iowa, Nebraska, and North Dakota.
- Classic and collector cars. Something no franchise dealer offers. A passion that runs deep in the Frankman family.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best used truck for South Dakota winters?
The F-150, Ram 1500, and Silverado 1500 are all excellent choices equipped with 4x4. The F-150 offers the best rust resistance thanks to its aluminum body. The Ram 1500 delivers the smoothest ride on highway drives. The Silverado is the durability and value pick. All three are well-represented in Frankman's inventory.
Are used trucks a good value right now?
Yes. New truck prices exceed $58,000 on average and tariffs are pushing costs even higher. A used truck with 30,000–50,000 miles typically costs $15,000–$25,000 less while still offering years of reliable service. Used inventory is not affected by tariff-driven price increases on new vehicles.
Does Frankman Motor Company offer financing on used trucks?
Yes. We work with multiple lenders to find competitive rates across the credit spectrum. Start online at frankmanmotors.com/apply-for-financing/ or call our sales team at (605) 250-5016.
What should I look for when buying a used truck in South Dakota?
Prioritize true 4x4 capability, inspect the undercarriage for rust from road salt, verify the factory tow package if you plan to tow, and check tire condition and age. Heated seats and remote start are highly recommended for SD winters. Buying from a dealer with a full service center means the vehicle has been inspected before it hits the lot.
How many trucks does Frankman Motor Company have in stock?
Frankman maintains 181+ vehicles at the Sioux Falls location with a strong selection of trucks from Ford, Ram, Chevrolet, GMC, and Toyota. Inventory changes frequently — check our inventory page or call (605) 250-5016 for current availability.
Can I trade in my current vehicle at Frankman Motor Company?
Yes. We offer competitive trade-in values and make the process simple. Get a preliminary estimate online at frankmanmotors.com/value-your-trade/ or bring your vehicle in for an in-person appraisal at 26874 SD Highway 11, Sioux Falls.
Visit Frankman Motor Company
Stop by and walk the lot. Test drive a few trucks back-to-back and feel the difference for yourself.