What is the most sought after square body Chevy?

The square body Chevrolet is one of the most iconic and sought-after classic trucks among enthusiasts. These rugged, boxy-styled pickups were produced from 1973 to 1987 and have become highly desirable in the collector car market. Among the square body Chevys, one model stands out as the most sought-after: the 1973-1987 Chevrolet C/K 1500 series.

The Enduring Appeal of the Square Body Chevy

The square body Chevrolet trucks are prized for their timeless design, robust construction, and legendary reliability. These trucks were built to last, and many have survived decades of use and abuse, making them highly sought-after by collectors and enthusiasts alike. The square body's distinctive boxy silhouette, chrome bumpers, and rugged good looks have cemented its status as a classic American icon.

The C/K 1500 Series: The Cream of the Crop

Among the square body Chevrolet lineup, the C/K 1500 series stands out as the most desirable model. These half-ton pickups were available in both two-wheel-drive (C) and four-wheel-drive (K) configurations, offering a versatile platform for both work and leisure. The C/K 1500 series was powered by a range of robust engines, including the iconic small-block V8 and the more powerful big-block V8 options.

Key Features that Drive Demand

Several factors contribute to the high demand for the C/K 1500 square body Chevy:

• Timeless Design: The square body's boxy, muscular styling has aged exceptionally well, making it a sought-after classic in the eyes of many enthusiasts.


• Reliability and Durability: These trucks were built to withstand the rigors of everyday use, and many have survived for decades with proper maintenance, further enhancing their appeal.


• Customization Potential: The square body Chevy's simple, straightforward design makes it an excellent platform for customization, allowing owners to personalize their trucks to their liking.


• Collectability: As the years pass, the square body Chevy has become increasingly rare, driving up prices and making them highly desirable collector's items.

The combination of timeless styling, legendary reliability, and customization potential has made the 1973-1987 Chevrolet C/K 1500 series the most sought-after square body Chevy among enthusiasts and collectors.

What year of Chevy 1500 to stay away from?

Years to avoid for the Chevy Silverado 1500 include the early 2000s (2001-2005), the 2012-2016 models, and the 2019-2021 models, due to issues like transmission problems, electrical system failures, and premature engine wear. The 2014-2015 models are particularly problematic, with high recall numbers and complaints about transmission, electrical, and air conditioning systems. 
This video discusses the worst years for the Chevy Silverado 1500: 59sCar Lensy YouTube · Sep 11, 2025
Model years to avoid

• 2001–2005: These trucks have a history of reliability issues, including failing brake lines, transmission problems, and electrical failures. 
• 2007–2011: Known for Active Fuel Management (AFM) issues, including oil consumption and lifter problems. 
• 2012–2013: Owners reported persistent transmission and engine issues, excessive oil consumption, and interior accessory malfunctions. 
• 2014–2016: This range is marked by numerous complaints, with 2014 and 2015 models being particularly bad due to high recall numbers and issues with air conditioning, transmissions, and electrical systems. 
• 2019–2021: These models have experienced issues with their Dynamic Fuel Management (DFM) lifters and engine bearings, which led to recalls. 

What to look for instead

• 2018: Considered one of the better years in the K2XX generation before the 2019 redesign. 
• 2013: A strong model in the GMT900 generation. 
• 2017: While still having some lingering issues, it is generally better than the 2014-2016 models. 

Important considerations when buying a used Silverado

• Get a pre-purchase inspection: This is crucial for any used vehicle to identify potential hidden problems. 
• Check maintenance history: Ask about the vehicle's maintenance records to understand its history. 
• Consider the vehicle's history: Be aware of recalls, especially for engine, transmission, and electrical systems. 

You can watch this video to learn more about the reliability of different Chevy Silverado models: 59sCar ExpertlyYouTube · Jun 4, 2025

Is GM really making a $8000 pickup truck?

No, GM is not making an $8,000 pickup truck; this is a false rumor likely originating from clickbait videos. GM's smallest truck, the Chevrolet Montana, is sold only in South America, and its price would be significantly higher than $8,000 in the U.S. even if it were imported.
 
This video discusses the GM $8,000 pickup rumor and its potential impact on the market: 58sGarage HeadsYouTube · Jun 1, 2024

• False rumor: The idea of an $8,000 pickup truck is a marketing tactic that has spread through sensationalist videos and online posts, often misattributing the claim to GM or Ford. 
• Chevrolet Montana: GM does sell a small truck called the Chevrolet Montana, but it is designed for the South American market and is not sold in the United States. 
• Pricing in the US: Even if the Montana were available in the US, its price would be much higher than $8,000 due to import taxes and other market factors. 
• Actual GM trucks: GM's current trucks, such as the Chevrolet Silverado, have starting prices far above this amount, with prices ranging from roughly $30,000 to over $80,000 depending on the model and features. 

What is the best square body Chevy?

The "best" square body Chevy depends on individual priorities, but the 1973-1987 C/K series is the overall winner due to its long production run, which resulted in a vast number of trucks and parts available for restoration or modification. Some enthusiasts favor certain years like the 1978 K10 for its classic 4x4 features, while others prefer the more updated 1987 models for being the final year of the generation. 
This video explains why the 1974 C10 is considered an iconic square body truck: 40sDriving LineYouTube · Oct 2, 2024
Factors to consider when choosing the best year

• Classic style and reliability: The 1973-1987 Chevrolet C/K series is a classic for its bold, angular design and durable construction. 
• 4x4 capability: The 1978 Chevrolet K10 is a particularly popular and reliable 4x4 model, known for its ruggedness and versatility. 
• Modern updates: The 1987 model year represents the end of the square body era and may be more desirable for those looking for a later-generation truck with potentially more modern features. 
• Engine options: The square body trucks came with a variety of engines, from inline-sixes to V8s. Some popular choices include the 350 cubic inch V8 or the larger 454 cubic inch V8. 
• Parts availability: Due to their long production run, there are abundant OEM and aftermarket parts available for the 1973-1987 models, making them easier and more affordable to restore and modify. 

What is a 1972 Chevy C10 worth today?

Typically, you can expect to pay around $22,388 for a 1972 Chevrolet C10 1/2 Ton in good condition with average spec.