Why is my Simplisafe motion sensor Gen 2 not detecting motion?

Author: Evangeline Willms  |  Last update: Tuesday, May 6, 2025

If your Motion Sensor Gen 2 is not detecting motion, it's likely the result of the placement of the Sensor itself. We recommend mounting the Motion Sensor Gen 2 in the corner of your room. For optimal performance, the sensor must be mounted 6 feet from the ground.

Why is my motion sensor not working in SimpliSafe?

When a sensor is displayed as ``Not Responding'', it could either be a battery or connection issue. I would first replace the batteries in your sensors that give you this error message to see if that resolves the issue. If it does not, there may be a weak connection between your sensors and the Base Station.

Why is my motion detection not working?

Inconsistent motion detection may be due to fluctuating Wi-Fi connectivity, outdated software, or incorrect sensitivity settings.

How do you fix motion sensors not working?

To troubleshoot your two Motion Sensors, I would first replace their batteries to ensure this isn't a battery issue. You can do this with new batteries, or swap out the batteries in your older Motion Sensors into your new ones.

What to do if the SimpliSafe sensor is not responding?

Entry Sensor Not Responding
  1. Slide the sensor off of the bracket by pushing it toward the door or window frame, then up toward the setup button.
  2. Using a pen, press the groove of the battery tab in and up to remove the battery from the sensor.
  3. Wait at least 15 seconds, then insert the new battery.

Motion Sensor Gen 2

How long do SimpliSafe sensors last?

The Entry Sensor takes a single (1) CR-2032 Lithium 3V battery and has a life expectancy of up to 5 years depending on placement and usage.

How to reboot SimpliSafe?

Simply unplug the power cord to your Base Station and, while unplugged, remove a battery (you'll need a screwdriver to get to the battery compartment). Wait a few seconds, and then put the battery back in and plug in the power cord - the Base Station will then come back on.

How to tell if a motion sensor is bad?

Test Your Motion Detector

Arm your system to Away. Before the exit delay expires, open and close an exit door. Wait five minutes. Confirm that the system panel's LED light turns on or that the keypad displays the zone as faulted.

What causes a sensor to stop working?

Sensor failures can be caused by mechanical damage, environmental factors, electrical interference, or calibration errors.

Why do motion sensors fail?

Most models perform as intended, but power outages, inclement weather and age can cause them to fail. Use these tips to reset your motion sensor lights, and in most cases, they'll be working correctly again in a matter of minutes.

What is the difference between motion alerts and motion detected?

The key distinction between these two features is that motion detection is the underlying technology that recognizes movement, while motion alerts are the notifications that inform users of such detections.

Do motion sensors wear out?

Also, they only switch on when needed, so you can minimise your energy consumption, especially if you have a spacious outdoor area. However, while motion detector lights are designed to work smoothly, they can fail sometimes. They also have a limited lifespan.

What triggers the SimpliSafe motion detector?

Direct sunlight hitting the sensor can trigger a false alarm. Heating vents located in the room. If they are located within the sensor's field of vision, they may cause false alarms. Curtains moving in front of a warm radiator in the sensor's field of view.

How to refresh SimpliSafe system?

With those steps out of the way, here's how to reset your SimpliSafe Base Station:
  1. Step 1: Remove the battery cover from the bottom of the device. ...
  2. Step 2: Remove the batteries.
  3. Step 3: Wait for at least 15 seconds, then replace the batteries.
  4. Step 4: Replace the battery cover and secure it with your screwdriver.

Why is my Simplisafe motion sensor not responding?

This issue is generally caused by one of the following: The battery or batteries in the device issuing the error need to be replaced. The device is too far away from your Base Station and is unable to communicate from its current location.

What are the three common causes of sensor failure?

Here are five of the most common ways sensors can fail, and how to avoid those faults.
  • Incorrect Readings Due to Improper Mounting. ...
  • Calibration Drift in Pressure Sensors. ...
  • Printed Circuit Board (PCB) Issues. ...
  • Malfunctions Due to a Cybersecurity Vulnerability.

Why is my motion sensor not working?

The sensors can go bad, and movement detection will no longer work. The bulbs might stop working and no longer emit light even though the device works properly. Electrical issues, such as a damaged power cord or faulty battery from solar motion lights, can prevent the device from working correctly.

How do you test if a sensor is working?

A multimeter is a device used to measure voltage, current, and resistance. It is an essential tool for checking if a sensor is working correctly. To use a multimeter, you need to connect it to the sensor and check if the readings are within the expected range. The expected range can be found in the sensor's datasheet.

How long does it take for a motion sensor to reset?

Motion Detectors have a built-in function called "dwell time." Dwell time means that after the device is tripped it will need a three-minute period in which it detects no motion in order to "reset" back to its default detection mode.

How to trick a motion sensor to stay on?

Quickly Switching the Motion Sensor On and Off

One of the quick tricks you can try is to quickly turn the motion sensor ON, OFF, ON to override the motion detection and make the light stay on. To go back to motion detection mode, turn the motion sensor off, wait for about 10 seconds, and then turn it on again.

Why is my SimpliSafe not working?

SimpliSafe sensors won't work correctly if the battery is too low, they're still in the box from your order, or the device is too far from the base station. Just like SimpliSafe's sensors, the keypad won't work if it's too far from or isn't paired with the base station.

What is the SimpliSafe panic button?

If you're at home during a break-in, pressing the Panic Button instantly triggers your alarm. With professional monitoring, our monitoring center will call and check if you're okay. If you don't answer your phone or give the “safe word,” we will alert the police that you're in danger.

How do I activate SimpliSafe sensors?

Press menu on your Keypad, enter your Master PIN, and navigate to “System Settings” then to “WiFi.” contacts the monitoring center. 1. When your alarm is on and one of your sensors is triggered, the Keypad will start beeping and prompt you for your PIN.

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