It’s frustrating when a device you rely on doesn’t live up to expectations. For SimpliSafe security system users, the key fob is a convenient accessory for arming and disarming their systems remotely. However, some users, like myself, have experienced issues with the longevity of these key fobs, specifically concerning their battery life. Having upgraded to the SimpliSafe SS3 system in early 2018 from SS2, one of the initial concerns was the non-replaceable battery in the new key fobs, a departure from the SS2 model. The common reassurance at the time was that SimpliSafe would readily replace any failing fobs free of charge.
Initially purchasing two key fobs, the experience has been mixed. One fob, used infrequently, lasted approximately four years before failing. The other, used more regularly, followed suit just five months later. To their credit, SimpliSafe promptly replaced both. Fast forward to the present, and the more frequently used replacement fob has now also died, a mere year and five months after it was provided as a replacement. This isn’t due to misuse; the fob has been well-maintained and never dropped. Upon receiving the latest replacement, the surprise was to find it was a refurbished unit. As someone who generally avoids refurbished electronics, this was unexpected and disappointing, especially since there was no prior notification about receiving a non-new product.
SimpliSafe’s initial claim of a key fob lifespan of “up to 5 years, depending on usage” seemed reasonable when the SS3 system was new and real-world usage data was limited. Now, after several years in the market, there should be more concrete data available. My personal experience suggests a significant variability in battery life. A rarely used fob lasting four years, and a frequently used one lasting only slightly longer, indicates inconsistency. Furthermore, a replacement fob lasting just a year and five months points to a potential issue with product battery reliability.
While key fobs may not be universally used by all SimpliSafe customers, their continued availability suggests an existing demand. As a user who finds them beneficial, I hope this experience encourages SimpliSafe to conduct further testing, now that the SS3 system has been available for over six years. This period should provide valuable data to either substantiate or revise the stated life expectancy of their key fobs. Analyzing replacement rates, the number of returned fobs, and their average lifespan could offer crucial insights. Is the rate of replacement becoming unsustainable, possibly even leading to a shortage of new key fobs for replacements, similar to situations sometimes encountered with older systems?
My primary concern moving forward is the lifespan of this refurbished replacement. Beyond personal experience, the accumulated data should now offer a clearer picture of typical key fob battery longevity, which, in my experience, appears to be considerably more variable and often shorter than advertised. For customers seeking “Key Fob Places” for reliable replacements or information, transparency about product lifespan and replacement policies is crucial. Especially when replacements are refurbished, clear communication upfront is essential for customer satisfaction. Hopefully, SimpliSafe will address these points to improve both product reliability and customer communication regarding key fob replacements.
