Kia Soul Catalytic Converter 1 (I) (2008-2014)

The Kia Soul catalytic converter Bank 1 / Converter 1 is a three-way catalytic converter made with a ceramic honeycomb substrate housed in a stainless steel body. It contains precious metals such as platinum, palladium, and rhodium which help reduce exhaust emissions to meet Euro and EPA standards.

Common examples include:

• Kia Soul 1.6L 4-cylinder (2012–2019), Bank 1 catalytic converter with stainless steel body and 2-bolt flange.
• Kia Soul 1.6 CVVT AM engine (G4FC), compliant with Euro 5 emission standards, OEM reference 28510-2BEF1.
• Replacement catalytic converters for Kia Soul 2019, matching multiple part numbers such as 28600-1R220, 28600-1W850, and others.

These versions vary by engine and model year but maintain similar construction and performance.

The catalytic converter features:

• A three-way catalytic converter design suitable for gasoline engines.
• A ceramic honeycomb core providing large surface area for catalytic reactions.
• An exterior made from stainless steel, often grade 409 stainless steel.
• Precious metals - Platinum (Pt), Palladium (Pd), and Rhodium (Rh) - deposited on the ceramic substrate to catalyze oxidation and reduction reactions.

This structure ensures effective emission reduction and durability.

The catalytic converter reduces harmful emissions by converting exhaust gases through chemical reactions:

• Carbon monoxide (CO) is converted to carbon dioxide (CO₂).
• Unburned hydrocarbons (HC) are converted to CO₂ and water (H₂O).
• Nitrogen oxides (NOₓ) are converted to nitrogen (N₂) and oxygen (O₂).

The ceramic honeycomb substrate offers a large surface area for these reactions to occur efficiently while allowing exhaust flow. It is an OBDII compliant three-way converter monitored by upstream and downstream oxygen sensors.

For the Kia Soul 1.6L 4-cylinder engine, Bank 1 refers to the single bank of cylinders. The Converter 1 is typically the primary catalytic converter and can be located:

• Close-coupled integrated into the exhaust manifold near the engine.
• As a main underfloor catalytic converter connected with 2-bolt flanges depending on the vehicle configuration.

This designation helps identify the correct converter in OEM parts catalogs or for diagnostics.

The Kia Soul catalytic converter Bank 1 / Converter 1 is designed to meet the following standards:

• Euro 5 emission standard for certain engines like the 1.6 CVVT (G4FC).
• Compliance with OBDII regulations via sensor monitoring.
• California CARB-compliant versions are available for markets with stricter regulations, compatible with states such as California, Colorado, New York, and Maine.

Selecting the correct catalytic converter should be based on the vehicle's emission rating and the local legal requirements.

Common signs of catalytic converter failure include:

• Reduced engine power and performance.
• Increased fuel consumption.
• Excessively hot exhaust pipe or catalytic converter area.
• OBDII fault codes such as P0420 indicating catalytic efficiency below threshold.
• Possible rattling sounds if the ceramic core is damaged.

Failures often occur after approximately 100,000 miles (160,000 km) due to clogging, thermal damage, or contamination.

You can choose between:

• OEM catalytic converters: Genuine replacements with guaranteed fit and emission compliance, like part number 28510-2BEF1 for the 1.6 CVVT engine.
• Aftermarket catalytic converters: High-quality compatible units that meet emission standards and often come with stainless steel construction and ceramic honeycomb core with precious metals.

When selecting, ensure compatibility with the engine type, emission standard, and local regulations. Professional installation and proper sensor replacement are recommended for warranty and performance.

Additionally, used catalytic converters can have scrap value based on precious metal content, with typical buy-back prices ranging from around 31 to 256 USD depending on the type and condition.