Researched Info I found online.

There are two main reasons why a converter fails :

- The converter is poisoned

- The converter is clogged

ThereÆs actually no way for us consumers or mechanic to take a peek into the converter in order to see an actual clog inside it.

Most of the time the converter must be removed and checked for the change in engine performance.

This is the common way to find out if the catalytic converter is plugged(malfunctioning).

When there is an indication that the converter is clogged, the mechanics will temporarily remove the 02 sensor to see if there are any changes in performance.

The mechanism of the converter relies on processing the proper mix of exhaust gases at certain temperature.

When the mixture or temperature of the exhaust gases change, the effectiveness and life of the converter will be reduced.

This condition is usually caused by additives contamination or malfunctions.

Over usage of leaded gasoline and certain fuel additives are the main cause of such problem.

There are two other things that are responsible for a catalytic converter failure, they are:

- Unburned fuel that overheats the converter. This can be caused by fouled plugs.

- Damaged exhaust valves on the engine.

If you feel like you donÆt go any faster even when you already push the gas pedal, then the converter is probably clogged.

You may also notice a significant drop in gas mileage when you drive using a clogged catalytic converter.

A partially clogged converter may affect the RPM of the car by limiting it to a fast idle.

If the converter is totally clogged it may cause the engine to quit after a few minutes.

The engine may quit due to increased exhaust back pressure.

Similar to the rest of the emissions system, the catalytic converter usually provides a warranty that exceeds the term of the warranty for all other warranties of a typical U.S. Vehicle.

You have multiple issues that need to be addressed independently and then assess overall results.

First, go after the IAC issue. The IAC itself rarely goes bad. Chances are the electrical connector is loose or corroded. Pull the connector and use contact cleaner. If you adjusted the gas pedal linkage to compensate for this issue return it back to it's original position or else you'll never get it to work properly. Insure this issue is fixed before proceeding.

Clutch issue: If you are losing fluid mostly likely it's due to a leaking slave cylinder. On left hand drive Sportages it is located on the passenger side of the bellhousing. You'll see it. If that area is wet with brake fluid you found the problem.

Loss of power at speed: Agree with the group. One of the cats is clogged. Sportage cats are cheaply made and tend to break down internally which blocks the outlet. The question and difficulty is determining which one is bad since there are two on '99 - '02. Unfortunately it's trial and error.

My Sporty is a '99 and I was told last summer by the dealership there are still active recalls for my truck. One is for the front seatbelts and one is for the catalytic converter. He could tell if they were performed or not by running my VIN through the computer. I would see if your recall was ever performed and let the dealer fix it for free.

I just went thru all the recalls and I couldnt find any for the cat.

This is where I looked:
http://www.autorecalls.us/aut-03/recalls/2000/kia/sportage/index.html

If you have another source can you please post the link. Thanks.

web page I just googled kia sportage catalytic converter recall and this was one thing that came up. The guy at the dealership is the one who told me I had an active recall. I still haven't done it, but my tailpipe is rusted off and everything is rusted real bad. I figured I'd let them replace the cat before I do anything. It's worth the call to the dealer.