KIA VIN decoder

Free KIA VIN decoder: lookup windows sticker / build sheet options

Example: KNDJP3A57J7625516

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Each Kia vehicle is assigned a unique 17-digit code called the Vehicle Identification Number (VIN). This code, consisting of letters and digits, is used by Kia manufacturers, dealerships, and insurance companies to identify and track individual vehicles.

By using a Kia VIN decoder, you can enter your vehicle's VIN and discover more information about the car, including its make and model, production history, and other features. Using this tool can help you better understand your one-of-a-kind Kia. Fun fact: Kia is an automotive manufacturer based in South Korea that was established in 1944. It is well-known for producing a diverse range of vehicles, including sedans, hatchbacks, SUVs, and vans. Kia is also renowned for its focus on safety and value, with many of its vehicles receiving top ratings in safety tests.

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John - out author and car expert

By John Devn

our car expert

2 minutes read

Updated 2026-06-11

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Where to find KIA VIN number

The identification number, a unique code that identifies a specific vehicle, can be found in various locations, including:

  • On the driver's side of the dashboard, near the bottom of the windshield. It should be visible from outside the vehicle through the glass.
  • On the area where the driver-side door attaches to the vehicle's frame when closed.
  • In automobile literature, such as the owner's manual.
  • On documents such as the title, registration, and insurance policies, which can be stored at home, in the glove compartment, or in the trunk.
  • On the engine block, which is often located near the front of the engine and may be engraved.
  • On the frame or undercarriage of the vehicle.
  • On the transmission. It's important to note that if a vehicle history report is available for the car, the identification number may also be listed on it. This report provides information about the vehicle's ownership, maintenance, and accident history.
Where to find KIA VIN number
Chart option of VIN number

Chart option of VIN number

The World Manufacturer Identifier (WMI) is a unique code that identifies the manufacturer of a Kia vehicle. It is typically the first three characters of a VIN and helps determine the country of origin, manufacturer, and type of vehicle. Here are some examples of WMI codes for Kia vehicles:

WMI code Manufacturer Location Date
5XX Kia Motors USA 2014-03-02
5XY Kia Motors  USA 2013-07-04
CGK KIA Motors  Morocco 2012-11-07
KMK HYUNDAI  Korea 2007-06-16
KMX HYUNDAI  Korea 2007-02-27
KNA HYUNDAI  Korea 1899-12-31
KNB HYUNDAI  Korea 2007-06-16
KNC, KNF, KNH HYUNDAI  Korea 1899-12-31
KND HYUNDAI  Korea 1899-12-31
KNE HYUNDAI  Korea 1899-12-31
KNG, KNK HYUNDAI  Korea 2007-06-16
LJD Dongfeng Yueda Kia Automobile Co Ltd  China 2015-06-01
TMA Hyundai Motor Czech 2012-11-03
U5Y KIA Motors  Slovakia 2009-06-09
U6Y KIA Motors  Slovakia 2009-06-16
U7Y KIA Motors Slovakia 2012-11-03
X4X Avtotor  Russia (Kaliningrad) 2011-01-25
XTK Izhmash JSC Russia 1899-12-31
XWE Avtotor Russia (Kaliningrad) 2011-01-25
XWK Izhmash JSC Russia 2009-12-02
XWW AZIA AVTO JSC Kazakhstan 2012-07-26
Y6D ZAZ CJSC Ukraine 2009-06-09
Y6L LuAZ JSC Ukraine 1899-12-31
Z94 HYUNDAI MOTOR Russia 2012-03-09

The Vehicle Descriptor Section (VDS) is a section of the VIN that provides specific information about the vehicle model, body style, engine type, and transmission. It typically consists of six to seven characters, which can be used to identify the vehicle's original design and check for any alterations.

The Vehicle Identification Section (VIS) is another part of the VIN that provides specific information about the vehicle, such as the model, body style, engine type, and transmission. The VIS typically consists of six to eight characters, which can be used to identify the vehicle's features, place of origin, production sequence, and year of production.

What you can know from VIN decoder tool

The VIN decoder tool can provide the following information:

  • Make, model, and year of the vehicle
  • Engine type and size
  • Transmission type
  • Trim level, options, and packages
  • Vehicle body style and door count
  • Vehicle's manufacturing location
  • Safety equipment and features
  • Production date and sequence number
  • Vehicle's color and interior trim
  • Vehicle's fuel efficiency and emissions rating
  • Recall and service bulletins
  • Manufacturer's warranty information
  • Registration and title information

Example of free VIN decoding

With the information provided, we can decode the VIN number KNALU4D35G6031472 as follows:

  • 1st character (K): Indicates the country of origin, in this case, South Korea.
  • 2nd-8th characters (NALU4D): Identify the manufacturer and specific model of the vehicle, in this case, a Kia K900.
  • 9th character (3): Check digit, used to ensure the accuracy of the VIN.
  • 10th character (5): Identifies the model year, in this case, it is 2016.
  • 11th character (G): Identifies the plant code, in this case, Sohari, South Korea.
  • 12th-17th characters (6031472): Identifies the production number, used to identify the specific vehicle within the production run.

Using this breakdown of the VIN, we can determine that this is a 2016 Kia K900 Luxury Sedan/Saloon, manufactured in Sohari, South Korea, by Hyundai-Kia America Technical Center Inc.

What you can know from VIN history

Additional data on a vehicle's history can be found in a vehicle history report, also known as a VHR, including:

  • Past ownership and registration details
  • Incident and repair history
  • Service and maintenance records
  • Safety recalls and defects
  • Odometer readings and rollback history
  • Salvage or scrap classification
  • Flood or fire damage reports
  • Lemon history
  • Total loss records
  • Emissions test results
  • Title and registration information
  • Plate numbers
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Buying a used Kia? Reliability, problems & recalls

Updated Jun 11, 2026 · sources: NHTSA, Consumer Reports, J.D. Power, iSeeCars

Reliability. Kia ranks 3rd of 32 brands for reliability, with average repair costs of $474 a year versus the $652 industry average. Its 10-year/100,000-mile powertrain warranty shrinks to 5 years/60,000 miles for second owners. Source: repairpal.com

Resale value. Kias lose about 49% of their value over five years. The Soul keeps about 62.5% and the Rio about 68%, while 2015–2019 models drop faster because of engine recalls and theft problems. Source: caredge.com

Theft risk. 2011–2021 Kias built without engine immobilizers are major theft targets after viral videos showed how to steal them in seconds. Before buying any pre-2022 Kia, confirm the free anti-theft software… Source: nicb.org

Most-reported problems on used Kias

  • Engine failure and fire risk
  • Brake-system electrical fire risk
  • Oil-burning engine defect
  • Excessive oil burning
  • Sorento engine failure
  • Fuel leak after engine replacement

Notable safety recalls (NHTSA)

  • Engine-failure recall (2017) — Some 2011–2014 Optima, Sorento, and Sportage engines can wear out, knock, and stall while driving; dealers inspect and replace…
  • Engine-fire recall (2023) — Many 2010–2017 models can catch fire under the hood even while parked; dealers install new fuses to prevent it.
  • Fuel-leak fire recall (2018) — Cars that got replacement engines under the earlier recall may leak fuel and catch fire; dealers inspect and fix the fuel pipe.

Confirm open recalls free by VIN at nhtsa.gov/recalls. Sources: NHTSA, plus the reliability and resale data linked above.

What’s new (2026)

  • Older 2011–2022 Kias without the free anti-theft software update get stolen about five times more often than average; only 40% had the update by late 2024. Source: iihs.org
  • Kia ranked 8th of all brands for new-car quality in J.D. Power's 2025 study, beating the industry average, and the Telluride won its SUV segment award. Source: jdpower.com
  • About 463,000 Kia Tellurides from 2020–2024 were recalled in 2024 because a power-seat part can overheat and create a fire risk. Source: nhtsa.gov

What buyers are asking right now

Does the Kia warranty transfer to a second owner?
Only partly. The 10-year/100,000-mile powertrain warranty covers the original owner only; second owners get 5 years/60,000 miles, which has usually already run out on used Kias.
Are older Kias still being stolen, and will insurance cover them?
Yes, 2011–2021 Kias without the factory anti-theft feature are still stolen far more often than average. A free software update at the dealer cuts theft risk by 45%, so check whether the car has it before buying.

Models of KIA

  • The plate may have been destroyed or covered up, such as by painting over it, or the VIN may have been lost.
  • The VIN may have been intentionally removed, either by the owner or someone attempting to hide the identity of the car.

  • Contact the car manufacturer to inquire about obtaining the VIN or to check if they have any records of it.
  • If possible, reach out to the dealership where the vehicle was purchased. They may be able to assist in locating the VIN or provide information on where it can be found.

All information about KIA on this page is based on data from:

NHTSA logo

NHTSA

SaferCar logo

SafeCar

NMVTIS logo

NMVTIS