2010 Kia Forte GLS
VIN: KNAFU4A25A5290436 | 2010 | Kia Corporation | HWASUNG, SOUTH KOREA
2010 Kia Forte GLS — 2L, Automatic. Sedan/Saloon.
C
55/100
Safety & Recall Score: Fair
This score reflects NHTSA safety data only — recalls, complaints, and crash ratings. It does not include title status, accident history, or odometer records. Verify hidden history with VIN Pro Plus →
Composite rating based on recalls, complaints, crash ratings, and vehicle age.
⚠ 3 recall campaigns
⚠ 232 owner complaints (high)
⚠ No NHTSA crash-test rating available
⚠ 15+ year old vehicle
✓ VIN fully verified
VIN Decoded
VIN Verified- Official VIN decode record located
- Type: PASSENGER CAR
- Body: Sedan/Saloon
- Plant: HWASUNG, SOUTH KOREA
NHTSA Recalls
3 Recall Campaigns- Kia Motors America (Kia) is recalling certain 2010-2013 Kia...
- Kia Motors Corporation (Kia) is recalling certain model year...
- Kia America, Inc. (Kia) is recalling certain 2010-2019 Borrego,...
Owner Complaints
232 filed with NHTSA- My car wasnt getting enough power and it just...
- My check engine light came on and I got...
Fuel Economy
26 MPG Combined- City: 22 MPG
- Hwy: 32 MPG
- Combined: 26 MPG
- Fuel: Gasoline
Technical Specifications
Vehicle Overview
VIN
KNAFU4A25A5290436
Model Year
2010
Make
Kia
Model
Forte
Trim
GLS
Body Style
Sedan/Saloon
Vehicle Type
PASSENGER CAR
Doors
4
Seats
Not reported by manufacturer
Seat Rows
Not reported by manufacturer
Fuel Type
Gasoline
Transmission
Automatic
Engine
2L
Manufacturer
Kia Corporation
Plant Location
HWASUNG, SOUTH KOREA
Country of Origin
SOUTH KOREA
VIN Breakdown
Position 1 — WMI Region
K → South Korea
Position 2 — Manufacturer
N → Kia Corporation
Position 3 — Vehicle Type
A → PASSENGER CAR
Positions 4–8 — Descriptor
FU4A2 → Forte GLS
Position 9 — Check Digit
5 → ✓ Valid
Position 10 — Model Year
A → 2010
Position 11 — Plant Code
5 → HWASUNG, SOUTH KOREA
Positions 12–17 — Serial
290436 → Production sequence
Engine & Powertrain
Displacement
2 L
Displacement CC
2000.0
Displacement CI
122.04748818946
Valve Train
Dual Overhead Cam (DOHC)
Fuel Type Primary
Gasoline
Fuel Economy & Environmental Impact
Fuel Type
Gasoline
Combined MPG
26 MPG
City MPG
22 MPG
Hwy MPG
32 MPG
Annual Fuel Cost
$2,450
5-Yr Fuel Cost
$12,250
CO₂ Emissions
341.8 g/mi
Barrels/Year
11.44
Safety & Driver Assistance
ABS
Not reported in manufacturer data
ESC
Not reported in manufacturer data
Traction Control
Not reported in manufacturer data
TPMS
Standard (Federal Req.)
Forward Collision Warn
Not reported in manufacturer data
Lane Departure Warning
Not reported in manufacturer data
Lane Keep System
Not reported in manufacturer data
Blind Spot Monitoring
Not reported in manufacturer data
Blind Spot Intervention
Not reported in manufacturer data
Rear Cross Traffic Alert
Not reported in manufacturer data
Adaptive Cruise Control
Not reported in manufacturer data
Parking Assist
Not reported in manufacturer data
Dynamic Brake Support
Not reported in manufacturer data
Pedestrian AEB
Not reported in manufacturer data
Rear Auto Braking
Not reported in manufacturer data
Auto Reverse System
Not reported in manufacturer data
Daytime Running Lights
Not reported in manufacturer data
Adaptive Driving Beam
Not reported in manufacturer data
Keyless Ignition
Not reported in manufacturer data
Auto High Beams
Not reported in manufacturer data
Front Airbags
1st Row (Driver and Passenger)
Side Airbags
1st Row (Driver and Passenger)
Curtain Airbags
1st and 2nd Rows
Knee Airbags
Not reported in manufacturer data
Seat Belt Type
Manual
Pretensioner
Not reported in manufacturer data
Brake System
Not reported in manufacturer data
Steering Location
Not reported in manufacturer data
Vehicle Dimensions & Weight
GVWR
Class 1: 6,000 lb or less (2,722 kg or less)
Doors
4
Towing & Utility
GVWR
Class 1: 6,000 lb or less (2,722 kg or less)
Wheels & Tires
TPMS
Standard (Federal Req.)
Manufacturing & Identity
Manufacturer
Kia Corporation
Manufacturer ID
21994
Make ID
499
Model ID
2462
Plant Company
Kia Motors Corporation
Plant City
HWASUNG
Plant Country
SOUTH KOREA
Vehicle Descriptor
KNAFU4A2*A5
GVWR
Class 1: 6,000 lb or less (2,722 kg or less)
Recall & Safety Summary
Total Recalls
3
Recall Status
Recall campaigns found
Recall Campaigns
3 recall campaigns identified
VIN repair status unknown — verify open recalls with NHTSA or a Kia dealer.
✅ Pre-Purchase Checklist
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Get a Vehicle History ReportUnlock accident history, title status & odometer records with VIN Pro Plus for $4.99 — scroll down to get it.
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Verify All Recalls Are FixedVisit the Kia dealer with this VIN to confirm all 3 recalls are resolved.
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NICB Stolen Vehicle CheckFree check at nicb.org to confirm no theft, salvage, or total-loss history.
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Negotiate Using This ReportUse the 3 recall campaigns as leverage for a lower price.
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Review Title & Lien StatusEnsure no outstanding liens before transfer. Your state DMV can verify title.
Estimated Market Value
Based on vehicle age, class, trim & U.S. market conditions
Market estimate
$2,900–$4,500
Based on vehicle class, age, trim, and U.S. market trends. Verify with Kelley Blue Book or Edmunds for mileage-adjusted value.
💡 This is a general estimate, not real data for this specific vehicle. Get the real, transaction-based Verified Market Value with VIN Pro Plus — $4.99 →
📚 Helpful Vehicle Resources
Safety Ratings
NHTSA has not published a crash-test rating for this 2010 KIA Forte. This is common for older, lower-volume, or recently-released vehicles that weren't included in NHTSA's crash-testing program.
Safety Recalls
AIR BAGS: AIR BAG/RESTRAINT CONTROL MODULE
Kia Motors America (Kia) is recalling certain 2010-2013 Kia Forte, Forte Koup, 2011-2013 Kia Optima and 2011-2012 Kia Optima Hybrid and Sedona vehicles. In the event of a crash, the air bag control unit (ACU) may short circuit, preventing the...
Risk: If the frontal air bags and seat belt pretensioners are disabled, there is an increased risk of injury to the vehicle occupants in the...
Remedy: Kia will notify owners. For model year 2011 Sedona vehicles, Kia will instruct dealers to verify the ACU part number and, if necessary, install...
EXTERIOR LIGHTING:BRAKE LIGHTS:SWITCH
Kia Motors Corporation (Kia) is recalling certain model year 2007-2010 Rondo, model year 2007-2011 Sedona, Sorento and Sportage, model year 2010-2011 Soul, model year 2008-2011 Optima, model year 2010 Forte, model year 2007-2009 Amanti, and model year 2009 Borrego vehicles....
Risk: Failure to illuminate the stop lamps during braking or inability to disengage the cruise control could increase the risk of a crash. Additionally, when...
Remedy: Kia will send an interim notification to owners in May 2013. When parts are available, owners will receive a second notification and dealers will...
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC:ANTILOCK/TRACTION CONTROL/ELECTRONIC LIMITED SLIP:CONTROL UNIT/MODULE
Kia America, Inc. (Kia) is recalling certain 2010-2019 Borrego, 2014-2016 Cadenza, 2010-2013 Forte, Forte Koup, Sportage, 2015-2018 K900, 2011-2015 Optima, 2011-2013 Optima Hybrid, Soul, 2012-2017 Rio, 2011-2014 Sorento, and 2010-2011 Rondo vehicles. The Hydraulic Electronic Control Unit (HECU) may experience...
Risk: An engine compartment fire while parked or driving can increase the risk of injury.
Remedy: Owners are advised to park outside and away from structures until the recall repair is complete. Dealers will replace the HECU fuse, free of...
Service bulletins and open investigations aren't part of this report. You can search them for free on NHTSA's site.
Finance & Cost Estimates
🔧 Service & Parts for this 2010 Kia Forte
$1,410/yr
Estimated Annual Insurance (national avg — varies by driver, location & coverage)
5-Year Cost of Ownership (estimate)
Insurance (5yr)
$7,050
Maintenance (5yr)
$7,500
5-Yr Fuel Cost (EPA)
$12,250
Depreciation (5yr est.)
$2,025
⛽ Fuel Cost Calculator
🏢 Find Kia Dealers
Get this VIN's recalls resolved, service appointments, and CPO program details from an authorized Kia dealer.
Find Kia Dealers →NICB VINCheck is a free federal database. Run a check to confirm this VIN has no theft, salvage, or insurance total-loss history.
Run Free NICB Check for KNAFU4A25A5290436 →State Emissions & Lemon Law
Emissions Testing & Lemon Law by State
Select any state to see its current emissions testing requirements and lemon law protections.
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OBD-II Check Engine Code Lookup
🔧 Check Engine Light Code Lookup
Enter a code from your OBD-II scanner, pick from the dropdown, or tap a common code chip below.
Common:
Owner Complaints
My car wasnt getting enough power and it just...
My car wasnt getting enough power and it just died while driving it on the interstate to go home.
My check engine light came on and I got...
My check engine light came on and I got it checked out and had a c1053 code show up. The repair shop told me I had a recall...
The contact owns a 2010 Kia Forte with a...
The contact owns a 2010 Kia Forte with a five-speed transmission. The contact received notifications for NHTSA Campaign Number: 18V363000(Air Bags) and NHTSA Campaign Number: 23V652000(Service Brakes, Hydraulics),...
The contact owns a 2010 Kia Forte. The contact...
The contact owns a 2010 Kia Forte. The contact stated the vehicle was taken to a dealer for several recall repairs, and repair under Manufacturer Recall Number: SC165A....
Never received a notice on vehicle having a recall
Never received a notice on vehicle having a recall
Knocking in engine, loss of power, rod bearings needs...
Knocking in engine, loss of power, rod bearings needs replacing
On August 22nd 2025 my daughter was driving this...
On August 22nd 2025 my daughter was driving this vehicle and was in a car accident and her front air bags did not deploy. Her passenger side airbags...
the air bag light is on, the cruise control...
the air bag light is on, the cruise control stop working around the same time, the light came on.
Showing 8 of 232 complaints. View all on NHTSA →
Maintenance Schedule
Due Soon
Oil & Filter Change
Every 7,500 mi
Kia recommended interval
Due Now
Air Filter (Engine)
Every 15,000–30,000 mi
Dirty filter reduces fuel economy by up to 10%
Due Now
Cabin Air Filter
Every 15,000–25,000 mi
Affects AC, heat, and air quality
Current
Tire Rotation
Every 5,000–7,500 mi
Extends tire life by 25–40%
Due Soon
Brake Inspection
Every 12 months or 15,000 mi
Brake pads typically last 30,000–70,000 mi depending on driving
Due Now
Spark Plugs
Every 30,000–100,000 mi
Copper plugs every 30k; iridium/platinum every 60–100k
Due Now
Coolant Flush
Every 30,000 mi or 5 years
Old coolant becomes acidic and damages the cooling system
Due Now
Transmission Fluid
Every 30,000–60,000 mi
Neglected fluid leads to expensive transmission repairs
Due Now
Brake Fluid Flush
Every 2 years
Brake fluid absorbs moisture, lowering boiling point
Due Now
Battery Test
Every 3–5 years
12V batteries typically last 3–5 years
Due Now
Drive Belt Inspection
Every 60,000–100,000 mi
Serpentine belt failure leaves you stranded
Due Now
Timing Belt/Chain Service
Every 60,000–105,000 mi (belt) or per manufacturer schedule (chain)
CRITICAL if belt-equipped — timing belt failure destroys engine. Confirm whether this engine uses a belt or chain (chains typically don't require scheduled replacement) before assuming this interval applies.
This schedule is a general reference based on make, model year, and powertrain. Always follow your owner's manual for exact intervals.
Additional Tools & Information
Estimated depreciation for this 2010 KIA Forte based on vehicle class and age. These are projections from today’s general estimate, not past sale prices. Verify with KBB or Edmunds for mileage-adjusted value.
Now
$3,700
+1 yr
$3,300
-12%
+2 yr
$2,900
-22%
+3 yr
$2,500
-32%
Estimates based on vehicle class averages. Actual values vary by mileage, condition, and location.
Estimated annual cost to own this vehicle at average U.S. driving conditions.
Insurance
$1,410/yr
23%
Maintenance
$1,500/yr
25%
Fuel/Energy
$2,450/yr
41%
Depreciation
$405/yr
7%
Registration
$250/yr
4%
Estimated Total Annual Cost
$6,015/yr
National averages. Registration varies by state. Does not include parking, tolls, or loan interest.
7.5
/ 10
Rank #9 overall
33 issues / 100 vehicles
Kia Reliability
Kia shares platforms with Hyundai. Similar reliability trajectory with competitive warranty coverage.
General editorial reference for this manufacturer, not a live or VIN-specific measurement — see the sources below for detailed, current data.
Use this checklist to track which recalls have been resolved. All recall repairs are free at authorized dealerships.
Jan 6, 2018
Jan 4, 2013
Sep 25, 2023
Vehicles in a similar class to the 2010 KIA Forte:
This vehicle is older, so current-market prices for these alternatives wouldn't be a fair comparison — research period-correct pricing for each instead.
Private Party
$2,600–$4,100
No warranty · Lower price · Inspect first
Dealer (Used)
$3,000–$5,000
Some warranty · Financing available
Negotiation tip:
This vehicle model has 3 recall campaigns on file. Use this as leverage — ask the seller to confirm this specific VIN's recalls are resolved, or reduce the price accordingly. Unresolved recalls cost dealers time and money to fix.
Automated checks against common VIN fraud indicators. Always verify with a paid history report and independent inspection.
✓
Check digit (position 9) validates
✓
VIN is exactly 17 characters
✓
No invalid characters (I, O, Q not present)
✓
Year position (pos 10) matches decoded model year
✓
Manufacturer decodes to a known brand
✓
Not a repeated-character test/placeholder VIN
Manual checks to do in person: Compare the VIN on the dashboard (visible through windshield), driver door jamb sticker, engine block, and title — all must match exactly. A cloned or re-VINed vehicle will show inconsistencies.
⚠ Always check the tire placard on the driver door jamb for the exact manufacturer-specified PSI for your vehicle.
Front Tires
32 PSI (typical)
See door jamb
Rear Tires
32 PSI (typical)
See door jamb
Spare Tire
60 PSI (typical)
Check monthly
Rotation Pattern Guide
FWD: Front to rear straight, rear cross to front
RWD: Rear to front straight, front cross to rear
AWD/4WD: Full X-pattern every 5,000–7,500 mi
Staggered: Side-to-side only if non-directional tires
Recommended rotation interval: every 5,000–7,500 miles. Rotate with every other oil change for best results.
❄ Winter Prep
✓ Check antifreeze concentration (minimum -34°F protection)
✓ Test battery — cold temps reduce capacity 30–60%
✓ Verify tire tread depth (4/32" minimum for snow traction)
✓ Consider winter tires if driving in snow or ice regions
✓ Replace wiper blades and refill washer fluid (-20°F rated)
✓ Test heater, front/rear defroster, and heated seats if equipped
✓ Inspect fuel lines and check for water in fuel system
☀ Summer Prep
✓ Check coolant level and test radiator cap pressure seal
✓ Inspect serpentine belt for cracking or glazing
✓ Test A/C system output and replace cabin air filter if needed
✓ Check tire pressure — heat increases PSI (recheck cold in a.m.)
✓ Inspect brake pads and rotors before summer road trips
✓ Check transmission fluid color and level
✓ Top off all fluids: brake, power steering, coolant, washer
Original Kia Factory Warranty
Basic / Bumper-to-Bumper
5yr/60k
Has likely ended
Powertrain
10yr/100k
Has likely ended
Corrosion / Rust
5yr/unlimited
Has likely ended
Estimated from the model year only. Factory coverage runs from the vehicle's original sale date, which this report can't confirm, and mileage limits can end coverage sooner. Verify remaining coverage with a Kia dealer using the VIN.
Third-Party Extended Warranty Options
CARCHEX
Get Quote →
A+ BBB-rated. 6 plan tiers, up to 500k miles.
Endurance
Get Quote →
Direct-pay at any ASE-certified mechanic.
AUTOPOM!
Get Quote →
Month-to-month plans, high-mileage coverage.
Estimate total fuel cost and stops for any road trip in this 2010 KIA Forte.
Steps to get the best price when selling this 2010 KIA Forte:
📄 Service records
Buyers pay more for documented maintenance history. Even basic oil change receipts add value.
🔍 Resolve all recalls
Unresolved recalls suppress resale value and are easy objections for buyers. Fix them free at any dealership.
🚗 Professional detail
A full detail ($150–$300) typically returns $500–$1,500 in perceived value, especially on dark-colored vehicles.
📷 Photograph in good light
Listings with 20+ high-quality daylight photos get 3x more inquiries than listings with poor photos.
🗂 Vehicle history report link
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🔍 Price using real comps
Search AutoTrader and CarGurus for same year/make/model/trim within 100 miles. Price within 5% of the median.
⚠ Check recall status first
This vehicle model has 3 recall campaigns on file. Confirming this specific VIN's recalls are resolved before listing typically increases sale price by more than the time spent.
No model-specific issue notes in our database for this year. The 232 NHTSA complaints filed provide the best available signal — review them in the Owner Complaints section above.
NHTSA offers free recall alerts by VIN. Sign up to be notified the moment a new recall is issued for this vehicle.
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VIN KNAFU4A25A5290436:
3 recall campaigns currently on file. Sign up to track when they are resolved.
Get competing insurance quotes for this exact vehicle. Rates vary by 30–60% between carriers for the same driver profile — comparing saves real money.
Estimated national average for this vehicle: $1,410/year. Your actual rate depends on your driving record, location, age, and coverage level.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does VIN KNAFU4A25A5290436 decode to?
VIN KNAFU4A25A5290436 decodes to a 2010 KIA Forte GLS, assembled in HWASUNG, SOUTH KOREA.
How many recalls does this 2010 KIA Forte have?
NHTSA shows 3 recall campaigns associated with the 2010 KIA Forte. This reflects campaigns issued for this model/year — it does not confirm whether this specific VIN's repairs have already been completed. Contact a KIA dealer with this VIN to check.
Is it safe to buy a 2010 KIA Forte with recall campaigns on file?
A recall campaign doesn't necessarily mean the vehicle is unsafe to drive, but any unresolved recall should be addressed promptly. Contact a KIA dealer with this VIN to confirm which specific recalls apply and whether they've already been completed — repairs are always free of charge.
What is the estimated value of this 2010 KIA Forte?
Based on vehicle age, body type, trim level, and U.S. market data, this 2010 KIA Forte GLS is estimated at $2,900–$4,500. Verify with Kelley Blue Book or Edmunds for a precise appraisal based on mileage and condition.
Is this VIN check really free?
Yes — the core VIN check on VinForFree is free with no signup required. All data is sourced from public records including NHTSA, the EPA, and official government databases.
What fuel economy does a 2010 KIA Forte get?
According to EPA data, the 2010 KIA Forte gets approximately 26 MPG combined (22 city / 32 highway). Estimated annual fuel cost is $2,450.
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