5 best internet car dealerships in Alaska

September 18, 3:37 PMAlaska Transportation ExaminerGeorge Angus

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In a previous post I spent a little time describing how shopping for a new car or truck on line is the best way to go.  It seems only fair that I should help point you in the right direction for who provides the best level of service right here in Alaska.

Several hours were spent on line reviewing the internet sales section of dealerships primarily in the Anchorage section.  If you live in another of the larger cities in Alaska, have no fear.  Most of these sites can direct you to a dealership in your local area, especially if the site is in conjunction with a major automobile manufacturer.

While conducting this research, I requested a "dummy" quote from each of the dealerships.  I used my junk email address and requested the quote be sent by email only.  All of the dealerships responded in a timely manner via email, and as requested none of them tried to reach me via phone.

Here's how the list shakes out:

1. Cars.com - This is actually a national site.  They landed at the top for one very important reason:  When you go there, after entering your zip code you can actually be directed towards a number of dealerships close to you. Many dealerships sign up with Cars.com to display their inventory.  So if you were searching for a blue 2009 F150 Crew Cab pickup, Cars.com might display one that is for sale at Kendall Ford.  When you request a quote, it takes you directly to the Kendall Ford site to complete the quote request.  Easy!  Otherwise this site is attractive and easy to navigate.  It should certainly be high on your list of places to research.
2. Kendall Ford of Wasilla - I liked this site for several reasons.  First and foremost they responded to my quote request in less than an hour.  The email reply was clear and prominently displayed the price I would pay as an internet customer.  I was invited to respond for an appointment time of my choosing.  I also liked that there were pictures of the cars and trucks and that each had listings of all of the features as well as a link to the window sticker.
3. Harley's Auto Sales - As a local used car only lot, I was hesitant to explore this listing.  After spending a few moments on the site I realized that these folks are doing it up right.  There was a lot of information I would want to have if I was in the market for a used car or truck.  There were also pictures and a professional listing of all of the features for each used vehicle.  For a local "mom and pop" lot, it was very impressive and worth a visit if you are in the market for a used vehicle.
4. Alaska Sales and Service Valley - This sister store of the mega Alaska Sales and Service in Anchorage is oriented to the GMC and Buick brands, but they do have access to the entire AK Sales inventory of GM products.  I like this site because it is easy to navigate and the quoting process was straightforward.  For Anchorage folks, it may be worth checking this out on line.  The Valley location does have the means to delivery your new GMC truck at the Anchorage location.
5. Anchorage Chrysler - I liked this site because of its ease of use and the vehicle details.  Actually getting to the Anchorage Chrysler site is a tad cumbersome in that you have to peel a few layers before you get there.  Overall though, it was a pleasant experience.

There is your top 5 list.  Consider this list as an excellent starting point for your venture.  When ultimately choosing where you will purchase from, pay attention to how you are treated during the quoting process.  It's probably a good indicator of how the rest of your purchasing experience will play out.

Tomorrow:  How to trade in your car.