Why Won't My August Smart Lock Lock or Unlock via the App?
- Lock batteries are low or dead
- WiFi bridge is disconnected
- Lock isn't calibrated properly
Problem Description
Your August Home August Smart Lock is not locking or unlocking reliably when commanded. A smart lock that does not respond correctly creates a security concern and undermines the convenience of keyless entry that the August Smart Lock is designed to provide. Specifically, the issue involves won't lock or unlock via app. The steps below walk you through diagnosing the root cause and applying proven fixes so your August Smart Lock works reliably again.
Symptoms
- Lock shows offline in August app
- App commands don't move the lock
- Auto-unlock stopped working
- Lock makes grinding noise but doesn't turn
- Bluetooth won't connect even when nearby
Recognize these? Here's what usually causes it.
Common Causes
- Lock batteries are low or dead
- WiFi bridge is disconnected
- Lock isn't calibrated properly
- Door is misaligned causing friction
- Bluetooth connection issues with phone
Most fixes happen in the first 3 steps.
If your lock makes repeated clicking or grinding noises, stop using it remotely. This can damage the motor. Check for door alignment issues first.
Tools & Requirements
These tools will help you complete this fix.
Door alignment tool
Door Latch Strike Plate, Stainless Steel Door Lock P...
Replacement batteries
Energizer Ultimate Lithium AA Batteries, Long Lastin...
Screwdriver
STREBITO 155 in 1 Electric Screwdriver Set, Small El...
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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
Energizer Ultimate Lithium AA Batteries, Long L...
$83.98Recalibrate 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.
Needed for this step
Door Latch Strike Plate, Stainless Steel Door L...
$7.49Check 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.
Reset 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 the keypad rejects valid codes, a lockout timer may be running — five failed entries locks most keypads silently for 5–10 minutes.
Set up low battery alerts in the August app so you get notified before the batteries die completely and you get locked out.
Most smart lock failures people label as hardware issues turn out to be a code wiped during a sync, or a setting reset nobody remembers triggering.
- Lock batteries are low or dead
- WiFi bridge is disconnected
- Lock isn't calibrated properly
- Door is misaligned causing friction
- Bluetooth connection issues with phone
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.
