I have a set of Arkel GT-54s that I got in 2013? and I love them and have had no issues. They are top notch and aside from weight are some of the best panniers on the market, ATMO. I haven't had any issues with their cam-lock and find it to be super secure.

Things can happen but when you notice an issue and continue allowing that issue to get worse that is on you. If I had an issue I would have sent an email to Arkel explaining the situation and seeing what to do next and stopped using them right away. I don't like the idea of using something I know has an issue.

Too many people think that a problem with a bike or component will magically vanish with some further riding on it and that is never the case. If you notice anything wrong with any part of your bicycle take it to a shop right away and get it fixed and keep up with normal maintenance of your bike. A bike needs care and work and money put into it every so often to keep it functioning. Instead of being like some of my commuter customers "let me run my bike into the ground and then be extremely appalled when it will cost a lot to get it working again" one should be bring their bikes in regularly for maintenance replace parts when needed and do some stuff on their own. It will save you money in the end and you will have a better functioning bike.