Pit Boss ERR Code: What It Means and How to Fix Your Pellet Grill
Quick Answer
Pit Boss displays a single ERR code for multiple fault conditions, which makes diagnosis harder than Traeger's specific codes. ERR most commonly means the RTD temperature probe has failed, disconnected, or is reading out of range. The second most common meaning is a temperature fault (too low or too high).
Pit Boss displays a single ERR code for multiple fault conditions, which makes diagnosis harder than Traeger's specific codes. ERR most commonly means the RTD temperature probe has failed, disconnected, or is reading out of range. The second most common meaning is a temperature fault (too low or too high). Because Pit Boss does not differentiate: first check the probe connection, then clean the firepot, then check for grease fire evidence. On Pit Boss grills with the standard blue PID controller, ERR appears as three characters on the LED display. On newer Pit Boss models with the WiFi controller (Platinum series), the app may provide more specific information about what triggered ERR. Pit Boss Austin XL and Laredo 1000 models are particularly prone to ERR from probe wire routing - the wire passes near the firebox and can melt.
What Does the ERR Code Mean?
Pit Boss ERR is generic - covers probe failure, low temp, and high temp. Check RTD probe connection first (most common), then clean firepot, then check for grease buildup. Austin XL and Laredo 1000 models have probe wire routing issues that cause ERR.
Most Likely Causes
Based on aggregated repair data, here is the probability breakdown for this error code:
Symptoms You May Notice
- ERR on display
- Grill stopped mid-cook
- Temperature reading shows ERR instead of degrees
- Grill will not start
- App shows disconnected or error state
Can you reset a Pitboss pelletgrill to clear the ERR code?
Turn the grill off. Unplug for 30 seconds. Plug back in. Set to shutdown cycle to clear the firepot. Then restart.
Tools Required for Diagnosis
Diagnostic Checklist
Follow these steps in order. We start with the easiest external fixes before opening up the machine.
Turn off and unplug the grill
Turn off and unplug the grill. Open the controller access panel. Find the RTD probe connector (usually a 2-pin plug). Disconnect and reconnect firmly. Check for corrosion, bent pins, or melted insulation on the wire.
Remove grates
Inspect the drip tray and heat deflector for grease buildup
Test the RTD probe with a multimeter
Replacement Parts
If your diagnostic testing proves the component has failed, you will need a replacement. We recommend OEM parts over aftermarket for water-handling components.
| Part Name | OEM Number | Estimated Price |
|---|---|---|
| Pit Boss RTD Temperature ProbeModel-specific · $15–$25 | Model-specific | $15 – $25 |
| Pit Boss Igniter ElementModel-specific · $15–$30 | Model-specific | $15 – $30 |
Repair vs. Replace Calculator
Frequently Asked Questions
Why does Pit Boss only show ERR instead of specific codes?
ERR code reset - how do I clear it?
Pit Boss Austin XL keeps showing ERR. Is it a known issue?
Models Known to Experience ERR Errors
This repair applies to most Pitboss pelletgrills with this error code. Common model numbers include:
Austin XL, Laredo 1000, Pro Series 850, Platinum KC Combo, Navigator 850, Lexington, Brunswick
Last verified for technical accuracy on March 15, 2026