Electronic door locks provide convenience, security, and keyless access to homes and businesses. However, when these high-tech locks stop working properly, it can cause major headaches. This comprehensive guide provides troubleshooting tips to get your electronic door locks functioning again.
Common Issues with Electronic Door Locks
Before jumping into troubleshooting, it’s important to understand the most common issues that can cause electronic locks to malfunction:
Dead Batteries
The most common cause of electronic lock failure is dead batteries. Electronic locks rely on battery power to operate the lock mechanism and onboard electronics. If the batteries run out of juice, the lock will be completely non-functional.
Main Symptoms:
- Lock no longer responds to keypad or smartphone app commands
- Lock makes no sounds when buttons are pressed
- Lock no longer locks or unlocks the door
Alignment Problems
If the lock assembly shifts out of alignment with the strike plate, locking and unlocking functionality will fail. This usually occurs after doors sag on their hinges over time.
Main Symptoms:
- Difficulty getting the door to fully close
- The bolt does not fully insert into the strike plate aperture
- Lock struggles to lock or unlock the door
Faulty Electronic Components
Like any electronic device, electronic locks can suffer failures of internal components like circuit boards, connectors, gears, motors, etc. This is most common as the lock ages and parts wear out.
Main Symptoms:
- Some lock functions work but others do not
- Lock makes strange noises or smells during operation
- Keypad displays error message
Power Supply Issues
Some electronic locks run on external low-voltage AC power transformers. If there is a wiring issue or transformer failure, the lock can lose power.
Main Symptoms:
- Lock is completely unresponsive
- Status light on lock is off
Connectivity Loss
Locks with built-in WiFi or Bluetooth can lose connectivity with their apps and access control systems. This renders remote access useless until connectivity is restored.
Main Symptoms:
- Unable to control lock through smartphone app
- Lock won’t integrate with access control panels or smart home hubs
Read More: The Future Is Now: Exploring The Benefits Of Smart Appliances
Basic Troubleshooting Steps
When your electronic door locks stop functioning correctly, there are some basic troubleshooting steps you can take before calling for service:
Ensure Batteries are Working
The first step is to replace the batteries with brand new ones. Check that battery terminals are making good contact with the electrodes. Faulty batteries are the cause of most electronic lock issues.
Check Power Supplies
For locks powered by transformers, check that the transformer is plugged in and functioning, with the correct DC output voltage. Check terminals and wires for damage. Restore power if there is an outage or tripped circuit breaker.
Realign Components
Check around the lock assembly for sagging doors, misalignment issues, and proper installation. Adjust strike plates, tighten mounting screws, file plates if scraping, and ensure everything is aligned correctly.
Eliminate Physical Interference
Inspect for sources of physical interference like swollen door edges in humidity, obstacles blocking bolt projection, improperly installed weather seals, etc. Adjust to restore full motion.
Reset and Re-pair Lock
For locks with digital components, full power resets and re-pairing can restore normal operation. Refer to product manuals for the reset/re-pairing procedure for your specific lock brand and model.
Update Lock Firmware
For WiFi or Bluetooth enabled locks, install any pending firmware updates from the app or service portal. Updates often patch bugs and optimize performance.
Test Lock Operation
After trying the basics above, run through a full test of all the lock’s functions using both the interior/exterior hardware and smartphone app, if applicable. Attempt to isolate the source of any lingering issues.
Detailed Troubleshooting by Lock Brand
General troubleshooting steps may solve basic issues, but electronic lock malfunctions can have many possible causes depending on product design. Refer to the guides below for detailed brand-specific troubleshooting:
Kwikset SmartCode Locks
Kwikset’s SmartCode line uses a motorized deadbolt design powered by AA batteries. Common issues include:
Dead Batteries
If batteries are over 12 months old, replace them even if the low-battery indicator light is not illuminated. Cold weather and infrequent lock usage accelerate self-discharge even in high capacity batteries.
Keypad Input Problems
Keypads can suffer button failures or ribbon cable connection issues over time. Run system diagnostics to identify the failure:
- Press the Program button
- Press keys 1-9 in sequence
- Check for error code feedback on the keypad LED
Automatic Re-Locking Failure
The auto re-lock mechanism may fail due to worn gears or a stuck relock pawl. This requires total lock replacement or professional service. As a temporary workaround, push the door firmly closed after each use to manually activate re-locking.
Lost Programming Code
If the lock programming code is lost, the only option is to factory reset the lock using this procedure:
- Remove batteries
- Hold down the Program button as you reinsert batteries
- Keep holding button for 30 seconds until lock beeps and interior push button flashes red
- Programming code is reset to the default 12345
Bluetooth Connection Problems
To resolve Bluetooth connection issues:
- Check batteries in both lock and paired mobile device
- Reboot both devices
- Unpair and re-pair devices
Schlage BE365 Keypad Deadbolt
The BE365 uses 4 AA batteries to power the touchscreen, deadbolt motor, alarm, and other functions. Issues to check include:
Screen Unresponsive
Rule out battery issues first. If new batteries don’t restore screen function, the ribbon connector may have come loose during deadbolt installation. Disassemble the interior keypad and check for loose plugs.
Deadbolt Doesn’t Extend or Retract
Low batteries often can’t supply enough current for the motor. If this persists with new batteries, the gears or motor may need replacement.
Exterior Keypad Fails
Water intrusion is the most common cause of exterior keypad failures on this model due to flexible rubber button membranes trapping moisture. Disassemble the exterior housing to clean or dry components. Install a canopy for weather protection.
Interior Push-Button Fails
The most common cause is a loose wire connection. Some installations place stress on wires during mounting that work loose over time. Check and refasten terminal screws.
Fails To Auto Re-lock
Auto re-lock works via a small tilt sensor. If the deadbolt binds, scrapes the strike plate, or frame flexes excessively, the bolt may not tilt enough to activate re-lock. File plates for easier operation.
False Alarm Activation
Random false alarm events usually indicate failing batteries that are unable to provide correct voltage. However, if new batteries don’t help, ambient RF noise may be interfering. Move sources of EMF away from the lock assembly.
August Smart Locks
The August Smart Lock line retrofits to existing deadbolts to add app-based remote access. Troubleshoot issues as follows:
Lock Doesn’t Lock/Unlock on Command
Ensure batteries are fresh and correctly installed, as incorrect polarity can prevent operation. Check connectivity between lock, Wi-Fi bridge module, and mobile device. Power cycle components to resync.
Doesn’t Fit Deadbolt Correctly
August locks require a deadbolt with 1” edge-to-center bolt spacing. Replacing with a compatible deadbolt resolves most fitment issues. Adjusting bolt projection length also helps.
Excess Battery Drain
Frequent locking/unlocking runs batteries down quickly. Low temperature operation also drains batteries faster. Upgrade to the external August Connect module to power the lock instead of batteries.
August App Connectivity Loss
Toggle Bluetooth OFF/ON in device settings. Reboot the mobile device and power cycle the lock. Unpair then re-pair devices through the August app. If issues persist, contact August support for possible server-side connectivity troubleshooting.
DoorSense Not Working
Proper magnet and sensor alignment is critical for DoorSense functionality. Even slightly misaligned units may fail inconsistently. Check, adjust if needed, and use cardboard templates during remounting to optimize alignment.
When To Call A Locksmith
DIY troubleshooting can solve many basic electronic lock malfunctions, but when all fails, it may be time to call a professional. Locksmiths can diagnose and service locks right at your door. Common scenarios where engaging a locksmith saves time, money, and frustration:
- Total lock failure requiring complete replacement
- Internal part replacements like motors, gears, or electronics
- Major physical damage from attempted break-ins
- Installation flaws or misalignment needing lock removal/reinstallation
- Lost, damaged, or non-functional keys needing replacement
Choose locksmiths with specific experience in electronic locks, as specialized tools and programming equipment are required. Ensure they are licensed, bonded, and insured for scheduled work on security locks.
Preventing Electronic Lock Failure
While even properly maintained electronic locks will experience issues after years of use, following some basic guidelines greatly reduces premature failures:
Maintain Batteries
- Use only the size, type, and quantity of batteries specified by the manufacturer
- Replace batteries annually or when indicated
- Avoid low-quality generic batteries prone to leakage/internal damage
- Store spare batteries properly to preserve freshness
Keep Components Clean/Dry
- Install outdoor/exposed locks under a protective overhang if possible
- Seal any visible gaps allowing water intrusion with caulk or weather stripping
- Keep keypads clear of dirt, mud, plant matter, etc., by brushing or wiping periodically
Avoid Physical Damage
- Ensure strike plate screws are slightly recessed into the jamb to avoid bolt damage
- Keep door edges clear of obstructions that could impact extending bolts
- Use edge guards and reinforce plates to prevent damage if doors are regularly slammed
Update Firmware
- Maintain compatibility and security by installing firmware updates whenever notified
- Backup data prior to updates in case of corruption issues
Maintain Connectivity
- Position WiFi connected locks as close to routers/access points as practical to maximize signal
- Periodically power cycle smart home hubs that control locks to clear memory leaks
- Reboot smartphones hosting lock apps to refresh connectivity
Retighten Periodically
- Over years of seasonal movement and vibration, screws anchoring components can work loose
- Every 6-12 months, firmly tighten all mounting screws on lock bodies, strike plates, keypads, etc.
Reviving Your Electronic Door Locks
While electronic door locks offer great amenities when working properly, malfunctions can make access extremely difficult. Instead of waiting days for service calls, following the troubleshooting tips in this guide empowers you to revive your electronic lock promptly.
With knowledge of common failure points, usage of diagnostic tools, methodical troubleshooting procedures, and branded technical resources, most basic electronic lock issues can be resolved with simple tools and component replacements. Taking preventative measures also avoids many premature high-tech lock failures down the road.
However, if your technical efforts fail to uncover an obvious fix, don’t spend hours fruitlessly tweaking unsuccessful repairs. Know when it’s most prudent to contact a professional locksmith. Their specialized tools, programming software, component inventory, and experience allow the fastest, most cost effective solutions when locks require advanced servicing.