Have my Performer now for 3 years. No problems with the ignitor - this, the table and charcoal storage was key features for me along with the storage shelf underneath. Comes with a nice quality cover.
I cracked my table by lifting from it when moving it from the porch to the patio. MY FAULT - I was moving with the cover on and didn't realize where I was attempting to lift from.
Which the fuel tube on the ignitor assembly just as you would a gas grill. Normal care to keep the tube clean and free from spider webs, etc. Or - when the ignitor stops working remember to do that
I didn't LOVE the wire racks though. At minimum upgrade to stainless steel food grates, you can order them from Weber. The plated ones that come with it will eventually rust especially if you clean them with abrasives like steel wool pads, etc. I'd recommend using some of the $$ you saved to buy cast iron grate replacements rather than stay with wire racks. Adding cast iron food grates was a huge plus for me.
Take a permanent marker and put some marks on the slot where the vent handle slides and make a marks for full, have quarter open and fully closed.
Love the one touch and easily removable ash can.
The charcoal storage bin. I keep the charcoal in the bag and just slip it in. Very convenient. and keeps the fuel dry if caught out in the rain. One tip especially if loading fuel on one side. If you load the fuel on the side toward the bin try to remember to leave it tilted open during the cook. The heat from the kettle can deform the plastic of the blow molded bin. I had that happen to mine, especially when using lump, which burns hotter IMHO. Weber replaced it for free. I've managed to deform the second one just a little (forgot to tilt the bin open during use as above).
Personally I like the newer model better than the older (metal table model). On the older model, although it has a bigger fuel tank and SS table, you take up space on the bottom storage rack for the larger propane container. I find that the smaller gas bottle works great. Remember - you only need to leave the gas lit until the charcoal just starts to light (about 5 minutes), then shut it off and let the fuel continue lighting until ready. It can be easy to forget at first and leave the propane lit and empty out the canister prematurely. A canister of fuel easily lasts me a season. On the older stainless steel table you had to lift the door on the table top to get to the fuel, inconvenient when using the top while cooking.
Weber service is great and they stand by their product!
