Kwikset smart lock keypads can sometimes act up, and that can be a real bummer. But don't sweat it! There are eight solid fixes ready to help you out of this pickle. Dive in and see how easy it is to solve.
In this article, I explore common issues such as keypad lockouts, dead batteries, faulty cables, keypad errors, and more, which can lead to your Kwikset smart lock keypad not working as intended. I also guide you through specific troubleshooting steps for different Kwikset models like the Premis, SmartCode 913, Obsidian, and Powerbolt 2.
So let's dive in and your smart lock will hopefully be back up and running in no time.
1. Keypad Lockout
Keypad lockouts are a built-in feature in Kwikset smart locks designed to prevent unauthorized access from continuous attempts using incorrect codes. When three incorrect codes are entered within a minute, the keypad will become unresponsive for 60 seconds.
During this lockout period, users must wait before attempting to enter the correct code. This functionality exists in several Kwikset smart lock models, including Premis, SmartCode 913, Obsidian, and Powerbolt 2.
Specific models have unique ways of indicating a keypad lockout.
- In the case of Premis and SmartCode 913 models, both the flashing and beeping occur 15 times to signal three incorrect codes were entered.
- For the Obsidian touchscreen model, an “X” pattern flashes 15 times along with 15 beeps,
- The Powerbolt 2 model flashes red five times with five beeps when five incorrect user codes are entered within a minute.
After the designated lockout period expires—either 60 seconds for Premis, SmartCode 913, and Obsidian models or 45 seconds for Powerbolt 2—users can re-enter the correct code to regain access.
2. Dead Battery
A common issue with Kwikset smart locks is an unresponsive keypad due to dead batteries. In this case, if you are locked out, you will need to use a fall-back access option such as using a traditional key or using the emergency power port, to gain access to the interior to change the battery. Check out my guide here on how to open a Kwikset smart lock when the battery is dead.
Top Tip: Use high quality, new alkaline batteries and avoid expired or rechargable ones
For the majority of Kwikset smart locks, to replace the batteries, first locate the battery compartment window on the interior cover's top section.
Slide off the cover by pulling it up if the security screw was removed earlier; otherwise, unlock and remove the cover held by three screws.
Before proceeding, make sure the turn piece is in a vertical position.
After locating the battery compartment, remove the battery pack (if present) as well as the old batteries. Next, insert four new AA batteries, ensuring they have the correct orientation. Then simply drop the battery pack back in the way it came out.
The unit's light will then briefly flash red, followed by green, and a beep will sound. Finally, replace the battery window (and interior cover) and adjust the turn piece if necessary for alignment with the turn piece shaft. Your lock should now function properly.
Models without a Removable Battery Pack
However, there are some exceptions. For models without a removable battery pack, such as the Powerbolt 2, 264 deadbolt, and SmartCode 260, after inserting new batteries, press and hold the reset button on the interior assembly for five seconds until three long beeps are heard. Then, reinstall the battery cover.
SmartCode 955
For the SmartCode 955 model, the lock requires a 9v battery instead of four AA batteries.
3. Activate the Screen to access the Keypad
When it comes to accessing the keypad on the Kwikset Smart Lock, particularly touchscreen models like the Obsidian, there are a few ways to activate the screen.
- The first option is to touch the screen gently with the palm of your hand Until the digits light up. This simple action allows you to immediately access the keypad so that you can input your security code.
- The second method involves touching the lower left area of the screen, right where the checkmark is located until the digits illuminate.
- Alternatively, you can use the third option by placing three or more fingers on the screen at once, again causing the numbers to light up.
4. Inspect the Cable
One of the causes for an unresponsive Kwikset smart lock keypad could be a loose cable connecting the exterior keypad to the interior assembly.
This cable is essential for transmitting signals between the components, ensuring smooth operation. Over time or with rough handling, it might become disconnected or misaligned, leading to poor performance.
Align and Secure the Connection
To fix this issue, carefully examine the cable connectors by aligning the colored edges on both the exterior and interior sides of the cable. Make sure they match up correctly and firmly snap into place, ensuring a tight connection.
5. Carry out a Keypad Error Test
For SmartCode Keypad models, begin by installing a fresh set of batteries and turn switch #3 to the ON position (This is the Audio switch on most if not all models). This process ensures that the lock has ample power and you’ll have audible feedback for testing.
Next, test each button on the keypad by pressing them one at a time. Pay close attention to whether or not you hear a beep with each button press. A properly functioning keypad should emit a beep for every press.
If you notice any buttons that do not produce a beep, then it looks like there is a hardware issue and you may need a repair or replacement.
6. Carry out the Door Handling Process again
Over time, doors can warp or components such as the latch or strike may become jammed, creating additional tension in the lock system. This can prevent the deadbolt from extending and retracting fully, leading to a keypad that fails to respond. Repeating the door handling process can help resolve this issue; however, it's important to note that the process varies slightly depending on the model of your Kwikset lock.
For instance, the Aura, Premis, and Kevo models undergo automatic door handling when the battery is installed.
If that fails the manual door handling process involves the following: Press and hold the program button while inserting the battery pack, then release after three seconds and press the program button again. This causes the latch to extend and retract.
For the Powerbolt 2 model, you'll need to enter the master code, followed by the unlock button, and pressing 0 and lock for the latch to extend and retract.
With the SmartCode 910 model, hold the lock button on the exterior assembly while sliding in the battery pack, and the latch will extend and retract accordingly.
7. Factory Reset
In some cases, a factory reset might be the only solution to fix an unresponsive Kwikset smart lock keypad. Performing a factory reset will restore your lock to its default settings and depending on the model type, effectively deleting all smartphones, paired systems, user codes, and fobs from the lock's memory.
Keep in mind that after a reset, depending on the model, you will need to re-enroll your owner phone, send eKeys to previous users, repair systems, and re-enroll fobs as necessary. The reset process varies slightly for different Kwikset smart lock models, such as Kevo Convert & Kevo, SmartCode 913, SmartCode 914 & 888, Obsidian, Powerbolt, Halo Touch, and Premis.
System/Factory Reset Process
For each Kwikset smart lock model, the reset process usually involves pressing and holding a specific button, usually the “Program” or “Reset” button, for a designated amount of time until the lock beeps and flashes red.
Generally, you would then need to perform the door-handling process, which involves the latch bolt extending and retracting to learn the orientation of the door.
For some models, such as SmartCode 914 & 888, you will also need to press an additional button (in this case, button “A”) to enter “Add Mode” and add the lock to your smart home hub.
8. Contact Kwikset Support
If the above 7 troubleshooting steps don’t work then you may have a hardware issue that could require a repair or replacement. In this case, I recommend reaching out to Kwikset support, particularly if your smart lock is still under warranty.
Sources
https://kwiksetprodstorage.blob.core.windows.net/documents/kw_tg_5062818_916.pdf
https://kwiksetprodstorage.blob.core.windows.net/documents/kw_is_5066070_919.pdf
https://kwiksetprodstorage.blob.core.windows.net/documents/kw_is_5061063_925.pdf