August Lock: Motor Runs but Bolt Doesn't Turn -... | digitalhomefaults.org

Technical Background:

The August lock uses a DC motor to drive a gear train connected to the bolt mechanism. The system monitors motor current draw and rotation. Increased current draw indicates mechanical resistance. Failure to reach expected rotation within a timeframe triggers a fault. Zigbee or Z-Wave protocols establish communication between the lock and the hub. Signal strength (RSSI) affects responsiveness. Cold temperatures increase battery impedance, potentially reducing voltage under load.

Symptoms:

Motor activates for approximately 10 seconds, audible whirring sound present. Bolt does not extend or retract. Red LED error code visible on lock body (consult August documentation for specific error code interpretation). No physical movement of the strike plate observed. App displays “Bolt Jammed” or similar error message.

Possible Causes:

Mechanical binding of the bolt due to door frame warping from seasonal temperature fluctuations.
Insufficient battery voltage to overcome mechanical resistance, especially in cold temperatures (-20°C to -40°C).
Gear train malfunction within the lock mechanism (worn or broken gears).
Misalignment between the bolt and strike plate.
Obstructed bolt path due to debris or paint buildup.
RF interference affecting communication and calibration.

Solution:

1

Inspect the door frame and strike plate for signs of warping or misalignment. Adjust strike plate position or shim as needed.
2

Replace batteries with fresh, high-quality lithium batteries. Ensure proper polarity. Measure battery voltage under load with a multimeter; voltage drop below specification indicates battery issue.
3

Lubricate the bolt and strike plate with graphite-based lubricant to reduce friction. Avoid oil-based lubricants, which can attract dust and debris.
4

Check for obstructions in the bolt path. Remove any debris or paint buildup that may be interfering with bolt movement.
5

Recalibrate the lock via the August app. Follow the in-app instructions for bolt positioning and calibration.
6

If using a Zigbee or Z-Wave hub, verify the signal strength (RSSI) between the lock and the hub. Reposition the hub or add a repeater to improve signal strength. Use a Wi-Fi analyzer app to identify potential 2.4GHz interference from other devices.
7

If the problem persists, contact August support for warranty assistance or professional repair.

Safety Warning:

Ensure personal safety when working with door hardware. Avoid forcing the bolt, which can damage the lock mechanism. Back up door codes and emergency access credentials before performing any maintenance or troubleshooting. Dispose of old lithium batteries properly at designated recycling facilities. Do not attempt to disassemble the lock mechanism without proper training and tools.

Prevention:

- Check battery health regularly, especially before winter. Replace batteries proactively. - Periodically lubricate the bolt and strike plate. - Monitor door frame and strike plate alignment, adjusting as needed to compensate for seasonal changes. - Ensure adequate Zigbee/Z-Wave signal strength for reliable communication. - Perform regular firmware updates via the August app to ensure optimal performance and security.

Expert Tip:

Try a full power cycle: remove the batteries for at least 15 minutes, then reinsert them. This can sometimes resolve software glitches that cause the motor to malfunction. Also, examine the drive adapter (the small piece that connects the lock to the existing deadbolt mechanism) for cracks or wear.

Frequently Asked Questions

•What type of batteries are recommended for optimal performance in cold weather?

Lithium batteries are recommended due to their superior performance in cold temperatures compared to alkaline batteries. Ensure they are high-quality and within their expiration date.

•How can I improve the Zigbee/Z-Wave signal strength between the lock and the hub?

Reposition the hub closer to the lock, add a Zigbee/Z-Wave repeater to extend the network range, or eliminate sources of interference such as metal objects or thick walls.

•Is there a manual override in case the motor fails completely?

Yes, the August lock typically retains the functionality of the original deadbolt. You can use the original key to manually lock and unlock the door. Ensure you have a physical key readily available in case of emergency.

August Lock: Motor Runs but Bolt Doesn't Turn - Troubleshooting

Technical Background:

Symptoms:

Possible Causes:

Solution:

Safety Warning:

Prevention:

Expert Tip:

Frequently Asked Questions

Frequently Asked Questions

•What type of batteries are recommended for optimal performance in cold weather?

•How can I improve the Zigbee/Z-Wave signal strength between the lock and the hub?

•Is there a manual override in case the motor fails completely?

Related Questions

Technical Background:

Symptoms:

Possible Causes:

Solution:

Safety Warning:

Prevention:

Expert Tip: