Traeger Ironwood XL: problems, parts and running costs
Checked: 2026-10-19
Summary
The Ironwood XL (TFB93RLG) is a 924 sq in pellet grill whose main reported issues are a first-use high-temp error that needs a WiFIRE firmware update, weak searing at 500°F, and a parts-only 10-year warranty that excludes warping and paint damage. Running costs are hardwood pellets plus electricity; pellet prices were not captured, so no yearly total can be computed. At its $1,999.99 list price it is a premium buy whose case rests on capacity, the WiFIRE app and the 10-year parts warranty rather than on measured performance.
Common problems and fixes
- First-use high-temp error — AmazingRibs’ test unit threw a high-temp error on first use until it was connected to WiFIRE and updated; connect the grill to the internet and install the update before the first cook. [4]
- Weak searing — 1.5-inch strip steaks at 500°F came out “meh” in AmazingRibs’ test, matching Wirecutter’s warning that gas or charcoal grills sear better; use a different grill for high-heat searing. [3][4]
- Drip-tray liners and foil can damage the grill — Traeger explicitly warns they can damage the drip tray or the grill; skip liners and use the EZ-Clean grease and ash keg. [1]
- Weak built-in grill lights — the lights illuminate only a small area; no fix reported. [4]
- Confusing pictograph assembly guide — AmazingRibs found the pictograph guide occasionally confusing; Traeger states assembly takes 30-60 minutes and provides in-app digital instructions. [1][4]
- Smoke output drops at higher temperatures — Traeger says food cooked at 165-225°F comes out smokier than at higher settings; expect less smoke above that range. [1]
- Warranty exclusions and costs — the 10-year parts warranty excludes paint damage from grease fires or UV exposure, normal wear, and warping of the drip tray, EvenFlow heat shield or heat baffle; you pay labor and freight, and coverage requires purchase from an Authorized Seller. Traeger support runs at 800-TRAEGER (6:00 a.m.-10:00 p.m. MT). [2]
Parts and consumables
- Drip tray, EvenFlow heat shield, heat baffle — warping of these parts is excluded from the warranty; Traeger designs the grills for modular user repair and sells replacement parts with instructions. [2]
- Wired meat probes — two are included, and the grill is compatible with optional wireless MEATER probes. [1]
Yearly running cost
The main recurring cost is hardwood pellets; the research did not capture pellet prices, so a yearly total cannot be computed. The grill draws 100-120V AC at 218 watts, and there are no subscriptions — WiFIRE updates arrive over the air. [1]
When it is a good buy
List prices as of October 2026: Traeger lists the Ironwood XL at $1,999.99; the smaller Ironwood is $1,799.99 with identical features except capacity; the older Ironwood 650 and 885 remain at $1,299.99 and $1,499.99; the Timberline line starts around $3,299.99. Retailer price variations were not captured. [1][4]
- Camp Chef Woodwind Pro 24 ($1,300-1,306; 811 sq in; 22 lb hopper; 4 probes) — Wirecutter’s top pick; the better choice when you want tested performance. [3]
- Pit Boss Navigator 1300 ($850-1,063; 1,329 sq in; 5-year warranty) — the better choice when you want more cooking area for less money. [3]
- Traeger Woodridge ($800-900; 860 sq in) — Wirecutter’s Traeger pick; less sturdy and slower to heat, preferred by 20-40% of tasters for milder smoke. [3]
Buy the XL for the capacity, the WiFIRE app and the 10-year parts warranty — not for searing. [3][4]