How to Find the Right Replacement Grill Part for Your BBQ
Most gas grills are thrown away years before they need to be. Burners rust through, grates flake, heat plates crack and igniters stop clicking — but the frame and firebox are usually fine. Replacing a few worn parts can bring an old grill back for a fraction of the cost of a new one, as long as the parts actually fit.
Step 1: Find the model number
The model number is the single most useful piece of information. It is usually on a sticker or plate inside the cabinet door, on the back of the control panel, under the side shelf or on the frame near the propane tank. Take a photo of it — stickers fade and peel over time. Many grills are sold under several names, so the model number matters more than the brand name on the lid.
Step 2: Measure the old part
Even with a model number, measure before you buy. Grill makers often change parts between production years. Measure:
- Burners: length and the shape of the inlet end.
- Grates: width and depth of each section and the total cooking area.
- Heat plates (flavorizer bars, heat tents): length and width.
- Igniters: the type (push-button or rotary) and the number of outlets.
Step 3: Choose materials
- Stainless steel resists rust; thicker gauges last longer.
- Cast iron grates hold heat well but need oiling to prevent rust.
- Porcelain-coated grates are easy to clean but can chip, which then rusts.
OEM or aftermarket?
OEM parts come from the grill maker. Aftermarket parts are made by other companies to fit specific models and are often cheaper. Aftermarket parts can work very well if they are listed for your exact model and measurements — read the product description carefully for any wording about fit and compatibility.
Safety first
Turn off and disconnect the gas before working on a grill. After replacing burners, valves or hoses, check connections with soapy water: bubbles mean a leak. If you are unsure, ask a qualified technician.
Before you order
- Model number confirmed and photographed
- Old part measured
- Material chosen for how often you grill
- Return policy and restocking fees checked
Frequently asked questions
What if my grill's model sticker is missing?
Look in the original manual, on the cardboard box if you kept it, or on the manufacturer's website using photos of your grill. Without a model number, careful measurements of the old part are essential.
How often should grill burners be replaced?
There is no fixed schedule. Replace burners when they rust through, show holes or uneven flames, or no longer light reliably.
Are universal parts a good idea?
Adjustable or universal parts can work, but they rarely fit as neatly as a part listed for your exact model. Compare measurements before choosing one.
For an example of how one replacement-parts store organises parts by model number and handles returns, see our GrillPartsReplacement review.