QuestionTrying to buy my first new car in Anchorage, AK.
Anchorage is a modern, hi-tech, Pacific NW, fairly large city, about 300k residents. It isn't the outback, by any stretch. However all local auto dealers add a charge, called a "Market Adjustment" on, as an extra to the sticker and it has nothing to do with delivery costs. I have seen it range from 1500 to $3500 and the excuses for it, cuz I always ask, are ludicrous, honestly!
When you press them, they will drop the "Adjustment" and act like they are doing you a favor to charge MSRP. I'm looking at Japanese, Toyota, Honda and Subaru. I would like to know how to deal with these places? Things, despite what they say, are no different up here, than in the lower 48.
AnswerHi George and thanks for the very interesting question. I have not been to Anchorage since the late 50's and I am sure things have changed dramatically since then. As to the extra charge this is not illegal, but is just a custom. Remember than MSRP means Manufacturers Suggested Retail Price since automobiles are not fair traded. I have no idea what you can do with prices locally but it could be worth your time to buy a car in Portland and drive it back home. You would need to do a lot of research but it would probably be worth it. I realize Canada is closer but the vehicles from Canada are not always compatible with USA emmission requirements and others. I would go to edmunds.com and do my homework on invoice cost, rebates, finance deals, etc. I would also use their service to request prices from dealers. If you have specific questions I would be glad to be of more assistance. Best of Luck and please let me know the final results. Bud
