- DoorSense sensor misaligned
- Magnet too far from sensor
- Metal door interfering
Problem Description
Your August Home August Smart Lock is not working correctly or responding to commands as expected. When this happens, you lose the ability to control the August Smart Lock through the August Home app, scheduled automations, and voice assistants like Alexa and Google Home. This is a common issue with smart lock devices and usually stems from connectivity problems, outdated firmware, or configuration changes on your network. The steps below walk you through diagnosing and fixing the problem so your August Smart Lock works reliably again.
Symptoms
- Shows open when door is closed
- Shows closed when door is open
- DoorSense stopped working
- Status never changes
- Intermittent wrong readings
Recognize these? Here's what usually causes it.
Common Causes
- DoorSense sensor misaligned
- Magnet too far from sensor
- Metal door interfering
- DoorSense not calibrated
- Sensor damaged
Most fixes happen in the first 3 steps.
Place the magnet on the hinge side of the door frame, aligned with the DoorSense indicator on the lock.
Tools & Requirements
These tools will help you complete this fix.

Level
9 Inch Torpedo Level Magnetic, Shock-Proof Small Lev...

Replacement batteries
Energizer Ultimate Lithium AA Batteries, Long Lastin...
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Step-by-Step Solution
Check and Replace Batteries
Most smart lock issues stem from low batteries. Open the battery compartment on the interior side of the lock. Use fresh high-quality AA or AAA batteries as specified. Do not mix old and new batteries. After installing close the compartment and test the lock. The app should now show a higher battery level.

Needed for this step
9 Inch Torpedo Level Magnetic, Shock-Proof Smal...
$6.99Recalibrate the Lock
Open the manufacturer app and find your lock settings. Look for Calibrate or Door Handing Setup. Follow the on-screen instructions which typically involve extending and retracting the bolt several times. This helps the lock learn the resistance of your specific door. Proper calibration prevents grinding and incomplete locking.
Check Door Alignment
Close the door and check that it sits flush in the frame without force. The bolt should extend smoothly into the strike plate. If there is friction or the bolt hits the plate, adjust the strike plate position or add a deeper strike box. Misalignment causes motor strain and battery drain.
Verify Network Connection
Check if your lock uses WiFi directly or requires a hub. For hub-based locks ensure the hub is plugged in and showing online. For WiFi locks verify signal strength at the door. The lock should show as connected in the app. If offline try power cycling the lock by removing batteries for 30 seconds.

Needed for this step
Energizer Ultimate Lithium AA Batteries, Long L...
$83.98Reset Access Codes
In the app go to access code management. Delete any codes that stopped working and create new ones. Use 4 to 8 digit codes as supported by your lock. Test each new code at the keypad. If the keypad itself seems unresponsive, check if it needs separate batteries or cleaning.
Update Lock Firmware
Open the lock settings in your app and check for firmware updates. Install any available updates which may take several minutes. Keep the app open and stay near the lock during the update. Updates often fix connectivity issues and add new features. Restart the lock after updating by removing and reinstalling batteries.
Quick Solutions
Still having issues? This is usually the deeper cause below.
If this comes back after following these steps, check whether a recent app or firmware update reset a default setting — the fix works, but the setting gets reverted silently.
DoorSense enables auto-lock when door closes - very convenient but requires accurate sensing.
This issue almost always looks more complex than it is — the majority of cases trace back to a single setting, a stale credential, or a default that shipped wrong.
- DoorSense sensor misaligned
- Magnet too far from sensor
- Metal door interfering
- DoorSense not calibrated
- Sensor damaged
Before you go — try one of these (they fix most cases).
Most popular upgrades chosen by August Smart Lock owners.
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Official Manufacturer Manual
If you need the complete manufacturer documentation for advanced setup, wiring diagrams, or detailed specifications, you can download the official manual below. The manual includes full technical instructions directly from the manufacturer and may help if your issue requires deeper troubleshooting.
Download the Official August Smart Lock ManualSource: august.com
Need More Help? August Home Support
Note: The contact information below connects you directly to August Home's official customer support team, not Trunetto. They can help with warranty claims, device replacements, and advanced technical issues.
How Does August Home Compare?
Before replacing your August Home device, see how it stacks up against alternatives in our full comparison guides.






