- Deadbolt binding in strike plate
- Adapter not seated on tailpiece
- Mounting plate misaligned
Problem Description
August calibration fails when the deadbolt binds or the adapter is not seated correctly. This guide checks door alignment, adapter fit, and app calibration steps so the motor can complete a full lock cycle.
Why This Happens in Real Homes
August calibration fails when the deadbolt binds or the adapter is not seated correctly. This guide checks door alignment, adapter fit, and app calibration steps so the motor can complete a full lock cycle. In day-to-day use, this usually looks like Calibration fails in the app; Lock stops mid-turn; Motor clicks but bolt does not move.
Most cases trace back to Deadbolt binding in strike plate; Adapter not seated on tailpiece; Mounting plate misaligned. The fix works best when you go step by step instead of changing multiple settings at once.
A practical order for this issue is: Check Manual Locking -> Reseat the Adapter -> Square the Mounting Plate -> Run App Calibration. After each step, test the exact behavior that was failing so you can confirm what actually solved it.
Symptoms
- Calibration fails in the app
- Lock stops mid-turn
- Motor clicks but bolt does not move
- Door feels tight when locking
- App shows calibration error
- Lock works manually but not with motor
Recognize these? Here's what usually causes it.
Common Causes
- Deadbolt binding in strike plate
- Adapter not seated on tailpiece
- Mounting plate misaligned
- Door not fully closed during calibration
- Batteries low
- Wrong handedness selected
Most fixes happen in the first 3 steps.
Do not keep running calibration when the bolt binds. It can overheat the motor and shorten lock life.
Tools & Requirements
These tools will help you complete this fix.
As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases.
Step-by-Step Solution
Check Manual Locking
Lock and unlock the deadbolt by hand several times. If it feels tight or catches, adjust the strike plate before proceeding.
Reseat the Adapter
Remove the lock body and ensure the adapter fits the tailpiece snugly. Use the correct adapter size for your deadbolt model.
Square the Mounting Plate
Reinstall the mounting plate so it sits flat and centered. A crooked plate causes the motor to bind during calibration.
Run App Calibration
Open the August app, start calibration, and keep the door fully closed. Do not touch the lock during the motor cycle.
Test Multiple Cycles
Run lock and unlock three times in the app to confirm the motor completes the full range without errors.
Quick Solutions
Still having issues? This is usually the deeper cause below.
This usually happens right after a router reboot or ISP change — the device rejoins the network but drops its cloud session silently.
If the deadbolt is stiff, sand or realign the strike plate before forcing the lock to calibrate.
Most WiFi drop-offs happen right after a router reboot or ISP swap — the device reconnects to the network but silently loses its cloud registration.
- Deadbolt binding in strike plate
- Adapter not seated on tailpiece
- Mounting plate misaligned
- Door not fully closed during calibration
- Batteries low
Before you go — try one of these (they fix most cases).
Most popular upgrades chosen by August Wi-Fi Smart Lock (4th Gen) owners.

August Home Smart Lock Pro + Connect Hub - Wi-Fi Smart Lo...

August Home Smart Lock + Connect, Silver

August Home Connect Wi-Fi Bridge, Remote Access, Alexa In...
As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases.
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 Wi-Fi Smart Lock (4th Gen) 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.





