Most of these are fair points. However, when you reference "the gate" I think you mean at the ticket counter. The gate is where you go to board the plane, not check your bags and buy tickets.

I believe some 100K members here have reported success getting The Works added via customer service after purchasing tickets at the airport to retain the refundability and other benefits associated with their status.

I would also add the limited hours many Fontier ticket counters at outstations are open as a potential drawback.

I've had good luck with agents assigning me seats toward the front of the aircraft for free when booking at the airport so that is one potential additional benefit in addition to saving money by not paying the CIC.