I really like this grill in every way: starting, heat distribution, cleaning, style, and solid construction. On start with closed lid, the temp gauge reaches 600 and it is HOT; makes cleaning fast and easy, turn it down halfway and it cooks everything (burgers, meat, fish,...) very nicely. My only wish is the side tables were made of a better material to withstand simple scratches; not sure how well they will hold up in time. I am expecting to have to order new ones down the way to keep it looking fresh. GET A COVER. Can't go wrong with this one!
My only concerns is that the maximum temperature is less than my previous Weber Grill model and the metal grates are not as efficient as the grills in my previous model. What I do like is that the gas line does not run through the firebox as my previous grills did (which contributed to grill fires).
This is my fourth Weber grill. I enjoyed all of them till the "last drop" In this one, I had the opportunity to get help from German. Excellent service. This is the grill to enjoy at home. Period..
I've been a Weber propane grill fan for years - this is my 4th one. I grill something almost daily. I'm really enjoying my new S-415. The new burner design (compared to my old one) is fabulous. The grill heats evenly, is easy to use, fits my cooking style, and is well made (as I expect from Weber). I've only two comments: (1) The propane tank is in a difficult position to install and remove, and I was disappointed that there is no "spring-loaded" tank fill indicator. This requires trying to lift the tank (very awkward) to get a feel for remaining fuel. I've not yet found a reliable screw-on tank gauge, although I've tried many. (2) The tolerance on the four stainless steel cooking grates is "off" on my particular grill. They slide back and forth on the grill when I clean them before cooking. When I push three to one side, and the fourth the other way, the gap is about 3/8", causing the grates the rattle back and forth while cleaning, and sometimes when cooking.
Good grill but with minor flaws. One pin that holds the cover on constantly slides in and out. Not sure why they feel the need to put stickers on everything. The one huge sticker on the side tray left it discolored. I contacted and asked for a replacement without a sticker and the lady was extremely rude and said no.
My last Weber grill lasted 12 years with heavy seasonal use. The new grill has eliminated all the problems I had with the previous one. It was almost as if someone gave Weber my complaint list and their engineers made the effort to eliminate all of them.
This grill is everything it says it is and exactly what I wanted. Easy to assemble, especially with the videos. Looks great. Has a large cooking area that is very consistent in temperature. The enclosed storage area below is a nice feature too.