Hearing aids never seem to last that long before developing some kind of fault, at least not for me. For instance, I have to activate the switch mechanism several times on my Reflex L HA before it will actually turn on. Typically, I get mine replaced yearly. Though, my audiologist isn't so keen to give me any upgrades until it gets to a stage where I will really benefit from newer technology. That seems to be around every 3 years or so.