How to decode a 2008 Kia Spectra VIN

Characters 1-3 of a 2008 Kia Spectra VIN

A World Manufacturer Identifier (WMI) is a unique code that identifies the manufacturer of a vehicle. It forms the first three characters of the Vehicle Identification Number (VIN), which provides specific information about the vehicle including its manufacturing origin. The WMI for Kia Corporation, as exemplified by the 2008 Kia Spectra, is “KNA.” This indicates that the vehicle was produced by Kia Corporation, headquartered in Seoul, Seocho-Gu, South Korea. The WMI not only pinpoints the manufacturer but also signals that the vehicle is of the passenger car type, adhering to the distinctive specifications crafted by Kia for models produced between the years stated.

List of WMI Codes for a 2008 Kia Spectra

WMI: KNA

Model Years Covered: 2000-2004, 2006-2009
Example VIN: KNAFE121085012166
Manufacturer Name: Kia Corporation
Vehicle Type: Passenger Car
City: Seoul
State or Province: Seocho-Gu
Country: South Korea

Characters 4-8 are the Vehicle Descriptor Section (VDS) of a 2008 Kia Spectra VIN

These characters correspond to components like:

Engine type
Transmission
Model or trim
Body style
Gross vehicle weight range

Below find the known vehicle descriptor codes for a 2008 Kia Spectra:

Known VDS for a 2008 Kia Spectra
FE121	FE161	FE162	FE122

Auto manufacturers have some discretion to decide how they want to code this section, but its contents and decoded results are generally consistent.

Character 9 is the “check digit” in a 2008 Kia Spectra VIN.

Based on a formula developed by the US Department of Transportation, it helps reduce fraud by ensuring the validity of the VIN.

10th Character in the 2008 Kia Spectra VIN — Year Code

Year Code	Year
8	2008

11th Character in the 2008 Kia Spectra VIN — Plant Code(s)

Known 2008 Kia Spectra Assembly Factory VIN Code(s)

Plant Code	Plant City	Plant State	Plant Country	Plant Company Name	Example VIN
5	Hwasung		South Korea	Kia Motors Corporation	KNAFE121085012166

VIN Characters 12 - 17 of a 2008 Kia Spectra

The final 6 characters in a 2008 Kia Spectra’s 17-digit VIN are its serial number, which will be unique to every vehicle.

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How to find a 2008 Kia Spectra’s VIN?

Locating the VIN number on your 2008 Kia Spectra is key for identification. Here’s how to find it:

Look at the dashboard on the driver’s side of your Kia Spectra, as the VIN is typically visible through the windshield on a small placard.
Examine the driver’s side door frame on your 2008 Kia Spectra for a label or sticker that also lists the VIN where the door latches when it is closed.
Under the hood, check the front of the engine block for the VIN of your Kia Spectra.
On your Kia Spectra, the VIN can usually be found on the chassis underneath the spare tire, often in the trunk area.
Look at your vehicle’s title, registration, or insurance documents, where your Kia Spectra’s VIN will be displayed.

What info can a 2008 Kia Spectra VIN reveal?

Model Year: The VIN can reveal the vehicle’s model year as 2008, providing insights into the age and potential market value of the vehicle.
Body Class and Size: It specifies the body class as a Sedan/Saloon, designed for a comfortable passenger experience with 4 doors, and enough space to accommodate up to 5 occupants, providing detailed insights into the vehicle’s design and passenger capacity.
Engine Specifications: The VIN suggests an in-line engine configuration with a displacement of 2 liters or 122.047 cubic inches, capable of delivering 138 horsepower. It is indicated that this vehicle operates on gasoline as its primary fuel source.
Safety Features: Front airbags are available for the 1st row (driver and passenger), showcasing the vehicle’s commitment to occupant safety.
Plant Details: The manufacture of this vehicle took place in Hwasung, South Korea, by Kia Motors Corporation, highlighting its origins and the quality assurance associated with the brand.
Transmission and Drive: It is equipped with a manual/standard transmission that has 5 speeds, offering a balance of control and performance for the driver.
Innovative Technologies: This model includes a Direct Type Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS), which may enhance vehicle safety and maintenance through real-time tire pressure monitoring.

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Sample VIN Decode Report for a 2008 Kia Spectra

Vehicle Spec	Value
Body Class	Sedan/Saloon
Displacement (CC)	2000
Displacement (CI)	122.0474881894
Displacement (L)	2
Doors	4
Engine Brake (hp) From	138
Engine Configuration	In-Line
Engine Model	ULEV
Engine Number of Cylinders	4
Front Air Bag Locations	1st Row (Driver and Passenger)
Fuel Type - Primary	Gasoline
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating From	Class 1: 6,000 lb or less (2,722 kg or less)
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating To	Class 1: 6,000 lb or less (2,722 kg or less)
Model	Spectra
Model Year	2008
Number of Seats	5
Plant City	Hwasung
Plant Company Name	Kia Motors Corporation
Plant Country	South Korea
Seat Belt Type	Manual
Series	LD
Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS) Type	Direct
Transmission Speeds	5
Transmission Style	Manual/Standard
Valve Train Design	Dual Overhead Cam (DOHC)
Vehicle Descriptor	KNAFE121*85
Vehicle Type	Passenger Car
Sample_VIN	KNAFE121085012166