Free Alaska VIN Check & Vehicle History Report

Buying a Used Car in the State of Alaska? Read this before you buy!

If you're considering purchasing a pre-owned vehicle in Alaska, this might be one purchase you should consider very carefully, especially after learning about the potential pitfalls that can leave consumers with far more issues than they may expect. Beneath the shiny exterior some vehicles may be hiding serious problems that may not make their presence known until after the purchase is finalized. A lot of these risks have to do with Alaska’s location and its unique landscape, which can increase the risks and easily turn a “good deal” into a nightmare.

The state’s vast distances present an immediate challenge to buyers, with many communities having minimal access to professional automotive shops and inspection facilities. According to the Alaska Department of Labor, just 23% of communities in the state have full-service auto shops with certified mechanics. These geographic limitations aren't just an inconvenience—they contribute to major problems. These access limitations result in approximately 17% of used car buyers in Alaska facing unexpected repair costs exceeding $1,000 within the first year, which is significantly above the national average.

Further compounding the problem of accessing qualified automotive technicians, dealerships and service facilities are the state’s harsh weather conditions. Alaska State Troopers data shows that winter weather-related accidents involving used vehicles account for 31% of all auto claims in the state. Another alarming figure to consider is the fact that many of these used vehicles lack a regular maintenance history. Further compounding the problem of the excessive wear and tear attributed to weather events and the unpaved roads, especially in the rural parts of the state.

What makes these statistics especially troubling is how they play out in consumers' daily lives. An AARP Alaska report indicates that 28% of older consumers buying used cars in the state report having a difficult time understanding the mechanical condition of their vehicles due to the lack of accessible professional maintenance facilities and inspections.

Perhaps most concerning is how faulty used cars affect Alaska’s already challenging economy. According to Alaska’s transportation economics study, the state’s workforce, particularly in remote areas, often spends up to 20% more on vehicle repairs when buying used versus new cars. Unexpected repairs place a real burden on Alaska’s families and small businesses across the state, where many residents already face a higher cost of living due to goods they need to transport over long distances. A used car purchase gone wrong can mean months of financial strain or even forced relocation in areas where public transportation is minimal at best.

Ways to Avoid the Hidden Pitfalls of Alaska's Used Car Market

As you consider purchasing that used car in Alaska, it's worth understanding just how Alaska’s unique geographic location and landscape affects the used car market. From limited inventory to lack of quality inventory and vehicles with a history of title washing, total loss and major accidents, Alaska’s used car market is full of major obstacles. However, there is a path forward; beyond going outside the state to purchase a vehicle, it is possible to find a good vehicle within the state; however, it may take some research and careful consideration. There are 2 major tools in the used car buyer’s arsenal and when used properly, they may help make a more informed decision, helping them avoid the common pitfalls of the local market.

1. The first step is to check the unique history of each and every vehicle you may consider purchasing prior to purchase. It is vital to keep in mind that various events in the vehicle’s history may have a considerable effect on the vehicle’s current value, safety and long-term reliability. An Alaska Vehicle History Report can uncover potentially hidden issues such as past accidents, total loss claims, salvage history, liens, repossessions and taxi and police use, as well as a slew of other pertinent data. Start by locating the Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) and running it through the easy-to-use Alaska VIN check.
2. The second step of the used car buying process in Alaska may require a bit more work than entering a number into a search box and generating a vehicle history report in AK. This second step can give you a comprehensive understanding of the vehicle’s current condition. According to a survey done by the State Consumer Protection agencies, 23% of Alaskans who purchased used cars report not having their vehicles properly inspected before purchase, oftentimes leading to unexpected repair bills and complications.

   Buying a used car in the state of Alaska should always involve a professional pre-purchase inspection. This in-person professional inspection conducted by an independent automotive technician may uncover issues never reported to any government agency, DMV or insurance company and can include everything from excessive rust and structural damage to electrical faults and safety system failures. While locating a pre-purchase inspection service in Alaska with a qualified inspection technician may pose some challenges, it is well worth the time, effort and a reasonable fee. Having a comprehensive understanding of the vehicle’s past as well as its current condition can help you make an informed car buying decision and may even provide you some leverage during price negotiations. 

The risks are there and they have the potential of having a serious effect on your wallet and daily life; however, with proper due diligence and an in person professional pre-purchase vehicle inspection, it is possible to make an informed buying decision and avoid some of the more common pitfalls plaguing the local used car market in Alaska.