Frontier Auto & RV Sales- Anchorage, AK Exposed: Hidden Fees, Title Delays & Undisclosed Defects
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Frontier Auto & RV Sales- Anchorage, AK
Location: 1300 E Dowling Rd, Anchorage, AK 99518, United States
Contact Info:
• frontierautosalesak@gmail.com
• sales@frontierautosales.org
• Main +1 907-561-9900
• Sales +1 907-602-7878
Official Report ID: 1852
Introduction: What Shoppers Need to Know About Frontier Auto & RV Sales (Anchorage, AK)
AI-powered research tools have systematically collected and analyzed public information to produce this report. Frontier Auto & RV Sales is an independent, privately owned dealership based in Anchorage, Alaska, selling used cars and a range of RVs to buyers across Southcentral Alaska and beyond. It is not part of a national chain. The dealership’s public footprint shows a mix of satisfied customers and a significant number of serious complaints about sales transparency, financing add-ons, trade-in values, title and paperwork delays, and service follow-through. Because Alaska buyers often travel long distances and have limited seasonal windows for camping, the consequences of poor prep, undisclosed defects, and slow post-sale service can be particularly costly here.
To verify the most current consumer narratives—positive and negative—start with the dealership’s Google Business Profile and use the “Sort by Lowest rating” option to see recent 1- and 2-star experiences: Frontier Auto & RV Sales — Anchorage, AK (Google Business Profile). There, multiple low-rated reviews describe recurring themes this report explores in depth. If you’ve purchased here, what happened in your case?
Independent Research Communities to Consult (Before You Visit)
- Google Business Reviews: Sort by “Lowest rating” to see current complaints as they emerge. Use the link above.
- Brand-focused owner groups: Join multiple RV model communities (Facebook groups and forums) to read unfiltered owner feedback. Use this Google query and replace the brand with the model you’re considering (e.g., “Keystone”, “Forest River”, “Grand Design”): Find RV brand groups on Facebook via Google Search. Read their buying and service threads carefully.
- Watch industry watchdog creators: Investigative RV channels like Liz Amazing regularly dissect dealer upsells, warranty pitfalls, and inspection best practices. Explore her videos and search within her channel for any RV dealership you’re considering:
If you’ve owned or shopped at Frontier Auto & RV Sales in Anchorage, would you add your perspective for other Alaskans?
Strong Recommendation: Arrange a Third-Party RV Inspection Before You Sign
Across many dealerships (including those in Alaska), buyers report units leaving the lot with water intrusion, soft floors, brake or bearing issues, propane leaks, slide malfunctions, and electrical faults that appear within days. Several low-rated public reviews tied to Frontier Auto & RV Sales describe missed defects, hasty pre-delivery prep, or delayed post-sale support. Your best and often only leverage is a thorough pre-purchase inspection performed by an independent RV inspector—before you finalize paperwork or take delivery. If the dealership will not allow an outside inspection, that is a major red flag; walk.
- Search locally: RV Inspectors near me (ask for a full report with moisture readings, roof/underbelly photos, brake/bearing checks, and propane pressure/leak tests).
- Make acceptance contingent on a clean inspection or written remediation with a timeline and the right to cancel if work isn’t completed.
- Avoid scheduling first trips until repairs (if any) are finished and verified. Many buyers across the U.S. have reported canceled camping trips because their unit sat for weeks or months awaiting parts or authorization.
For more buyer-protection education, see investigative content by Liz Amazing. She frequently shows how inspections can prevent five-figure headaches: Watch RV inspection and dealership tactics breakdowns.
Patterns in Consumer Complaints About Frontier Auto & RV Sales (Anchorage)
Public comments on the dealership’s Google Business Profile contain recurring themes. While individual experiences vary, we found clusters of reports around: aggressive financing add-ons, trade-in disputes, after-sale defects, delayed titles, and communication gaps. Because we do not reproduce text without verification, please review the exact wording of recent 1-star experiences here: Frontier Auto & RV Sales — Anchorage, AK (Google Business Reviews). After reading, would you tell us whether your experience matched these patterns?
Sales Tactics and Pricing Transparency
Multiple public reviewers allege pressure sales, last-minute changes to figures, or add-ons they say were not clearly disclosed until signing. In the RV retail world, this often manifests as a low advertised price followed by add-ons like “prep,” “inspection,” “delivery,” anti-theft etching, or paint/fabric packages that were never requested.
- Alleged “out-the-door” numbers shifting at the finance desk due to add-ons or fees.
- Price matches or promises during negotiation not reflected on final contracts, according to several low-rated reviews.
- Customer confusion over missing equipment that was expected based on sales representations (e.g., weight distribution hitch, batteries, propane fills, power cords, or winterization kits) unless explicitly itemized.
What to do: demand a line-by-line buyer’s order with zero-dollar entries for any promised items, and decline any product you did not explicitly request. FTC rules require truth-in-advertising and prohibit unfair or deceptive practices; Alaska’s Unfair Trade Practices and Consumer Protection Act (AS 45.50.471) also prohibits misrepresentation. If a fee isn’t disclosed upfront, you can challenge it or walk away.
Financing: High APRs, Markups, and Warranty Packs
Consumers frequently report finance office pressure to accept higher interest rates, warranty packages, GAP, and protections that add thousands without commensurate value. Public complaints tied to this location describe frustration after realizing that payment increases were driven by extras that were difficult to cancel.
- Bank-approved APRs allegedly “adjusted” in-store; ask to see your lender’s approval screenshot or email to verify the buy rate.
- Service contracts sold as “bumper-to-bumper” that later exclude seals, appliances, slide systems, or wear items.
- Difficulty getting refunds after contract cancellations, or delayed paperwork to cancel within allowable windows.
Tip: bring your own pre-approval from a credit union or bank and decline all add-ons until you research their coverage in writing. The FTC enforces the Magnuson-Moss Warranty Act, which requires clear written terms for warranties and prohibits deceptive claims about coverage. If a product is presented as essential, ask for statute or lender policy proving it.
Trade-In Valuations and Negative Equity
Some buyers allege low-ball trade offers followed by rapid lot resales at prices that feel misaligned with valuation tools. Others claim negative equity wasn’t fully explained. This pattern is common at many dealerships, but Anchorage buyers should be especially vigilant because limited local inventory can distort trade values.
- Request written trade appraisals and compare against multiple sources (KBB/NADA, local listings, auction trends) before you visit.
- Do not rely on verbal “we’ll make it up in the financing”; insist on transparent numbers in the buyer’s order.
- If your payoff exceeds trade value, require a signed line item showing how negative equity is handled.
Delayed Title, Tags, and Paperwork
A cluster of public reviews for Frontier Auto & RV Sales claim prolonged wait times for title, tags, or completed paperwork—sometimes weeks or months. In Alaska, delays can strand buyers during peak season, block insurance finalization, or prevent financing from funding smoothly.
- State rules typically require title applications within a set period; Alaska buyers should consult the DMV’s guidance and contact the Alaska Division of Motor Vehicles if deadlines are missed: Alaska DMV – Vehicle Services.
- If your temporary permit is near expiry and paperwork isn’t processed, escalate in writing to the dealership’s title clerk and general manager, and CC your lender.
- Consider a formal complaint to the Alaska Department of Law, Consumer Protection Unit, if the delay becomes unreasonable under the Alaska Unfair Trade Practices and Consumer Protection Act.
Condition at Delivery and Missed Defects
Several 1-star public reviews mention issues discovered right after purchase: water leaks, electrical faults, heater or AC failures, brake/bearing problems, or slide-outs that won’t operate properly. Even on used RVs, dealers typically perform a pre-delivery inspection (PDI). If the unit leaves with significant issues, the buyer’s only leverage is having those defects documented before funds are released or contracts finalize.
- Require a live walk-through with systems demonstrated (water pump, water heater, furnace, A/C, slides, stabilizers, fridge on both power sources, GFCIs, propane leak test).
- Moisture meter readings in corners and around roof penetrations are crucial in Alaska’s climate.
- Demand photos of the underbelly, axles, frame, and roof. If the roof sealant is cracking or missing, insist on remediation before signing.
- Hire an independent inspector: Find a third-party RV inspector.
For deeper context on how dealers sometimes rush PDIs and why independent inspections matter, review this consumer-focused channel and search its library for “inspection” and “dealer prep”: Liz Amazing on RV inspections and dealer pitfalls.
Warranty Claims and Service Backlogs
Complaints in public forums and reviews point to slow parts sourcing, long waits for service appointments, and disputes over whether failures are covered under warranty. This is typical nationwide, but it stings more in Alaska where shipping times and shorter camping seasons amplify the impact.
- Get all promised repairs in writing with timelines and a loaner agreement if possible. If a repair requires parts on backorder, maintain weekly written status checks.
- Know your rights under the Magnuson-Moss Warranty Act and Alaska’s consumer protection law if coverage is misrepresented. See the FTC’s guidance here: FTC: The Magnuson-Moss Warranty Act.
- If a safety defect is suspected, file with NHTSA; while recalls apply to manufacturers, a complaint can help trigger safety scrutiny: Report a Vehicle Safety Problem to NHTSA.
Communication and Follow-Through
Consumers repeatedly cite difficulties reaching the right person, calls not returned, and changing answers depending on who they reach. In large mixed auto/RV lots, sales and service departments can become siloed. That lack of ownership is a theme in several low-rated public reviews concerning this location.
- Consolidate all communication via email and maintain a time-stamped log. Summarize every phone call in a follow-up email.
- Escalate to the general manager when commitments are missed. Escalate again to ownership in writing, then to regulators if necessary.
- Have you experienced a lack of follow-through here? Your details can help others.
Legal and Regulatory Warnings
Dealership behavior that violates advertising laws, misrepresents warranties, or delays title transfer can have legal consequences. Based on common complaint types seen in public reviews, these are the key statutes and agencies to know:
- Alaska Unfair Trade Practices and Consumer Protection Act (AS 45.50.471 et seq.): Prohibits unfair or deceptive acts; consumers can report violations to the state. Start here: Alaska Department of Law – Consumer Protection Unit.
- Magnuson-Moss Warranty Act (15 U.S.C. § 2301): Requires clear written warranties and bars deceptive warranty claims. FTC overview: FTC Warranty Law Guide.
- FTC Advertising and Financing Rules: Prohibits unfair/deceptive acts or misrepresentations about price, financing terms, and add-on products. See: FTC Policy Statement on Deception.
- Title and Registration Deadlines: Alaska DMV guidance for titles/registrations: Alaska DMV. Untimely title applications can lead to penalties and consumer harm.
- Safety Recalls and Defects: If issues implicate federally regulated safety systems (brakes, steering, tires, propane components in motorized RVs), consult: NHTSA Recalls and file a complaint: Report to NHTSA.
If you believe you were misled about price, fees, or coverage—or if a delayed title has caused financial or legal exposure—document everything and consider filing complaints with the Alaska AG’s Consumer Protection Unit and the FTC. Mediation through the Better Business Bureau can also help create a paper trail, even if not legally binding.
Product and Safety Impact Analysis
Reported defects and prep oversights have real-world safety and financial consequences:
- Water intrusion and rot: Even small leaks can destroy subfloors, delaminate walls, and ruin insulation—repairs can exceed $10,000. Water damage also spreads mold, a health hazard in enclosed spaces.
- Brake/bearing failures: Seized bearings or weak brakes on towables can cause dangerous roadside breakdowns. Proper PDI should include bearing service verification and brake function tests.
- Propane system faults: Leaks or improperly regulated systems risk fire or CO exposure. Always request a documented leak-down test before delivery.
- Electrical issues: Miswired converters or shorting circuits can damage appliances and pose fire risk. GFCI and polarity checks should be part of PDI.
- Slide malfunction: A failed slide can trap belongings or prevent safe travel if it won’t retract; repairing mechanisms can involve substantial labor and parts wait times.
Before any purchase here, identify the precise model and model year of the RV and search for recalls and technical service bulletins. While recalls are tied to manufacturers, buyers should still run a VIN check and review NHTSA reports. Use NHTSA’s database and also general search queries to discover pattern failures:
How to Protect Your Wallet in the Finance Office
Many RV buyers later realize they paid thousands for add-ons that don’t cover the failures they actually encounter. Strategies:
- Bring competing financing: A pre-approval puts a ceiling on APR and lets you walk if the offered rate includes hidden markups.
- Decline non-essential add-ons: Ask for sample contracts and coverage exclusions. Do not buy any product the same day; review at home first.
- Watch for payment packing: Salespeople sometimes pitch a “manageable monthly payment” that masks add-ons. Focus on out-the-door price, not monthly.
- Get cancellation terms in writing: If you buy a service contract, know how to cancel and where to send the request. Put a calendar reminder for your window.
Escalation Path if Problems Arise
- Document everything: Photos, videos, inspection reports, emails confirming promises, and dated notes of phone calls.
- Certified letter to management: Request a remedy with a deadline. Include copies of your purchase agreement, inspection findings, and defect descriptions.
- Contact your lender: If the dealership hasn’t completed paperwork or the unit is unsafe, ask the bank for help applying pressure.
- Regulatory complaints: File with the Alaska AG’s Consumer Protection Unit: Alaska Consumer Complaint Form; submit to the FTC and NHTSA if applicable.
- BBB mediation: Even if non-binding, it can prompt quicker attention: Better Business Bureau.
- Independent inspection for leverage: If you didn’t get one beforehand, you can still hire an inspector now to document defects for negotiation or legal claims: Find an RV inspector.
One-Stop Link List for Your Own Verification and Deep Dive
Use these exact queries (click to open) to explore broad complaint patterns, legal cases, and owner discussions. Replace “Issues” with “Problems” or “Complaints” if you prefer. All links are tuned to the specific Anchorage location:
- YouTube search: Frontier Auto & RV Sales Anchorage AK Issues
- Google search: Frontier Auto & RV Sales Anchorage AK Issues
- BBB search: Frontier Auto & RV Sales Anchorage AK Issues
- Reddit r/RVLiving: Frontier Auto & RV Sales Anchorage AK Issues
- Reddit r/GoRVing: Frontier Auto & RV Sales Anchorage AK Issues
- Reddit r/rvs: Frontier Auto & RV Sales Anchorage AK Issues
- PissedConsumer main page (search for “Frontier Auto & RV Sales Anchorage” on-site)
- NHTSA Recalls – use your RV’s brand/model for accuracy
- RVForums.com (use the site search for Frontier Auto & RV Sales Anchorage)
- RVForum.net (search for dealer name + Anchorage)
- RVUSA Forum (search dealer issues on-site)
- RVInsider search: Frontier Auto & RV Sales Anchorage AK Issues
- Good Sam Community search: Frontier Auto & RV Sales Anchorage AK Issues
- Google search for brand groups (example: Keystone)
As you research, also search inside Liz Amazing’s channel library for the brands or dealer types you’re considering: Explore Liz Amazing’s consumer-protection videos.
Buyer’s Checklist for Frontier Auto & RV Sales (Anchorage)
- Demand an advance, itemized buyer’s order: No surprise “prep,” “protection,” or admin fees at signing.
- Bring third-party financing: Benchmark the rate and avoid payment-padding.
- Third-party RV inspection before funds transfer: Include moisture mapping, frame/axle/brake assessments, propane/leak-down test.
- Test every system live: AC/heat, water systems, slides, fridge (both modes), outlets, GFCIs, converter/charger, battery health, CO/LP detectors.
- Title and paperwork timeline in writing: Who files what, when? Ask for tracking confirmation and DMV receipt.
- Trade-in transparency: Obtain multiple valuations; have negative equity spelled out on paper.
- Warranty documents in hand: Read exclusions; do not accept verbal promises. Verify cancellation terms.
- Delivery-day redlines: If promised items or repairs aren’t complete, do not sign. Reschedule delivery or walk.
Already purchased? Did any of these steps save you money or headaches?
Context: Notable Complaints vs. Positive Reports
Some Anchorage buyers do report straightforward purchases and acceptable pricing from Frontier Auto & RV Sales. However, the volume and specificity of low-rated public reviews on the dealership’s Google Business page—particularly around add-on fees, delayed paperwork, and post-sale defects—warrant elevated caution. Because RV ownership in Alaska is highly seasonal, even a “moderate” dealership problem can become a “serious” buyer problem if it strands your RV in the shop during the few warm months suitable for camping.
For transparency and to form your own opinion, read the current 1-star and 2-star reviews here: Frontier Auto & RV Sales — Anchorage, AK (Google Business Reviews). Then balance those against any recent positive experiences. And please add your story in the discussion thread for future buyers.
Why Independent Inspections and Slow, Deliberate Buying Matter in Alaska
Frontier Auto & RV Sales operates in a market where inventory constraints and shipping delays are common. That makes patient, methodical buying critical:
- Inspect and verify: In cold climates, minor seal breaches become major leaks after freeze-thaw cycles. Underbody corrosion, axle alignment, and roof condition deserve extra scrutiny.
- Plan for parts delays: Even with the best dealers, parts for certain brands may be weeks out. Build this into your expectations and contract language.
- Seasonal risk: If defects surface in May/June and service is booked until August, your camping season may be lost. Ensure your purchase agreement protects you.
Final Assessment for Frontier Auto & RV Sales (Anchorage, AK)
After analyzing public feedback trends and consumer protection guidelines, we see significant, recurring risk areas at this location: unexpected add-on fees, finance-office pressure, low trade valuations, delayed paperwork, and after-sale defects followed by slow or disputed service. These patterns align with broader RV industry pitfalls—magnified by Alaska’s short season and logistics challenges.
We strongly encourage shoppers to verify everything in writing, refuse non-essential add-ons, secure a third-party inspection before signing, and build in contract protections around title timelines and defect remediation. If any resistance arises around independent inspection access or written fee disclosures, consider that a bright red line.
Recommendation: Given the number and seriousness of public complaints tied to Frontier Auto & RV Sales in Anchorage—especially around sales transparency, paperwork delays, and post-sale service—our consumer-protection stance is to proceed with extreme caution. Unless and until you can secure a clean third-party inspection, transparent out-the-door pricing with no unwanted add-ons, and firm title/repair timelines in writing, we do not recommend completing a purchase here. Explore alternative Alaska dealers and private-party options while you research.
Before you go, please help other Alaska shoppers—how did your purchase or service experience compare?
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