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How to Troubleshoot Common Issues of Electronic Door Lock

Lowe's Editorial Team

By Lowe's Editorial Team
Published September 16, 2024

Electronic door locks are a famous smart home application that will provide you with keyless entry and better door security. However, like any technical device there occurs a problem. This guide will walk you through the steps when your electric door lock is not working.

Steps on How to Troubleshoot Electronic Door Lock

Below are the instructions and steps on how to troubleshoot electronic door lock:

Battery is Facing an Issue

If the electric door lock is not working or is unresponsive and if the low battery indicator is on. Then you need to know that you have to check the batteries.

Here Are Some Troubleshooting Steps

  • Replace the Battery

Start by changing the old batteries with new ones. Make sure that the batteries are fixed correctly and are following the (+/-) indicators.

  • Check the Battery Contacts

Dirt or corrosion on the battery contacts can prevent the power from reaching the lock. Clean according to the manufacturer’s instructions.​

  • Use the Correct Battery Type 

Make sure you are using the correct battery type according to the design of your lock. Some locks use different kinds of batteries such as alkaline and lithium for better performance.

Connectivity Problem (For Smart Locks)

This issue occurs when the lock does not respond to remote commands or the connection is unsteady.  

  • Restart the Lock and Hub Router  

Simply restarting the device can solve the connectivity issues. Switch off the power to the lock or remove the remote batteries and restart your Wi-fi router or smart home hub Wi-fi router.  

  • Check the Wi-fi Signal  

Check if your lock is in range with your Wi-Fi router. Thick walls or metal objects can disturb the signal. Consider using a Wi-fi extender for a better signal strength.

Keypad Issues

The door keypad is not working due to some unresponsive buttons. This is caused due to the dirt and moisture settled on the keypad. 

  • Clean the Keypad 

Clean the keypad according to the manufacturer’s instructions.

  • Check for Wear and Tear 

Over time, if the keys are used continuously, they can wear out and become unresponsive.  If certain buttons are not functioning, then it is time to replace the keypad or the lock completely. 

These steps will help you repair the door keypad that isn't working.

Mechanical Problem

This issue occurs if the lock isn't turning or doesn't lock properly. Another possible problem is if the latch does not align with the strike plate.  

  • Lubricate the Lock 

Use a silicon-based lubricant to move the lock's parts. Try to avoid using products that use oil, as they can attract dirt and mess up the machine.  

  • Adjust Strike Plate  

If the lock is not aligned with the strike plate, try loosening the screws and adjusting the position of the plate.  

  • Check the Door Alignment 

Over time, doors can hang or shift slightly, which may cause misalignment. If this is the problem, you may need to adjust the door hinges or potentially plane the door for a better fit.

User Code Problems

This problem occurs when the user doesn’t remember the code or the lock doesn’t recognize the user code. The authorized user may also not be able to access the lock. 

  • Try Re-Entering the Code 

Make sure the code is being entered correctly. Enter the code very slowly in the keypad by pressing each button that is pressed is registered.  

  • Reset User Codes 

If possible, try to reset the user codes and create a new one. This will fix the problem, as you must have accidentally changed the codes or forgotten them.  

  • Check the Code Limit 

Some door locks limit the number of codes a user can store. To avoid adding new codes to the keypad, make sure you haven't reached the code limit.