Hello, I'm Danny.
First mistake you made was taking it to a dealership. Dealerships will always charge the highest amount for parts and repairs. As far as brakes go you must realize that they will always be a routine maintenance item on whatever car is driven. The code referred to as P0139 is the heated o2 sensor. You stated it was replaced before.I am curious to know why they consider the exhaust manifold-catalytic converter as the cause. You say the car runs great so I'm curious to known if there is a malfunction, leak, damage to the assembly? Can you hear a leak? Does your car sound loud? The assembly can be costly due it being both the exhaust manifold and converter assembly all in one. Yes, They can be pricey.
With that being said yes, that bill is very steep. You would find a better price going to a reputable repair shop in your area as opposed to a Kia dealership. I've attached pictures below showing what the manifold-converter assembly looks like and circled in red. The smaller red circle is the heated o2 sensor which mounts inside the manifold assembly and you have previously replaced. Hope this helps and thanks for using 2CarPros.
Images (Click to make bigger)
Sunday, May 10th, 2020 AT 5:41 PM