Common Reasons a Schlage Lock Won't Lock or Unlock

Common Reasons Why Your Schlage Lock May Refuse to Lock or Unlock 🔒

Have you ever come home to find your Schlage lock won't lock or unlock? It's a frustrating experience, but Don't worry - there are a few things you can do to troubleshoot the problem.

We’ve got some troubleshooting tips to get your lock working again. Electronic locks can be problematic, even for a leading brand like Schlage.

Before you call a locksmith, give these DIY fixes a try. With some essential tools and patience, you'll have your door locking and unlocking smoothly again before you know it.

Common Reasons a Schlage Lock is not Locking or Unlocking

The most common reasons why your Schlage lock won't lock or unlock are:

Low batteries: Schlage locks are battery-operated, so they may not function properly if the batteries are dead or dying. Try replacing the batteries to resolve the issue.

Jammed or stuck bolt: The lock won't work correctly if the bolt gets stuck. To free it up, you can manually unlock the door and use a lubricant like WD-40 on the bolt.

Faulty wiring or circuit board: If the batteries are new, but the lock still isn’t working, the problem could lie in the lock’s wiring or circuit board. You’ll need to contact a locksmith to test and potentially replace these components.

Strike plate misalignment: The lock won't lock properly if the strike plate on the door frame is out of alignment with the lock bolt. You may need to realign the strike plate so the bolt slides in smoothly.

Deadbolt issues: A separate deadbolt controls the locking/unlocking of some Schlage locks. If the deadbolt is stuck or broken, the lockset won’t work. Try lubricating and freeing up the deadbolt, or replace it if needed.

Troubleshooting Key and Keyway Issues

Use the Correct Key: 

Ensure you're using the correct Schlage key. Check that the key number matches the lock. If keys have been changed recently, the old key may not work.

Inspect Key for Damage: 

Check the key for damage or wear and tear. Bent or damaged keys may not turn the lock properly. Replace keys that are overly used or damaged.

Clean the Keyway: 

Debris or contaminants in the keyway can block key insertion. Use canned air or a small brush to clean it and apply graphite lock lubricant if necessary.

Check Lock Cylinder and Plug: 

Ensure the lock cylinder and plug function correctly. Contact a locksmith if cleaning and lubricating the keyway don't resolve the issue.

Fixing Problems With the Latch and Strike Plate

If your Schlage lock isn’t latching or unlocking correctly, the issue likely lies with the latch and strike plate. Here are some things to check:

Alignment: 

Make sure the latch bolt aligns correctly with the strike plate. Adjust the strike plate if the door or frame has shifted.

Lubrication: 

Apply graphite powder or silicone spray to the latch bolt and strike the plate for smooth operation. Lock and unlock the door to distribute the lubricant.

Inspect for Damage: 

Check for dents, bends, or scratches on the latch bolt and strike plate. Replace or file down damaged parts.

Remove Obstructions: 

Clear any debris obstructing the latch bolt from extending or retracting fully.

Tighten Mounting: 

Ensure the latch bolt and strike plate are securely installed. Tighten mounting screws if necessary.

Consider Replacement: 

If troubleshooting doesn't work, consider replacing the latch bolt, strike plate, or both if worn out.

What to Do if the Interior Mechanism Is Jammed

If your Schlage lock is stuck and won't lock or unlock, the problem is likely with the interior mechanism. It's time to attempt some DIY troubleshooting.

Check for Debris

Check if any dirt, grime, or foreign objects are stuck in the lock cylinder or bolt mechanism that could stop it from working correctly. 

Use a can of compressed air to blow out any debris that may be stuck inside the lockset. You can also use a pipe cleaner, Q-Tip, or small wire to gently dislodge anything stuck there.

Lubricate the Lock

If clearing out debris doesn’t do the trick, the lock may need lubrication. Apply a few drops of graphite lock or spray-on lubricant into the keyway and onto any visible moving parts like the bolt or latch. 

Work the key in and out a few times to help distribute the lubricant. This should help loosen any sticky parts and keep your lock moving freely.

Tighten or Replace Parts.

If lubricating the lock doesn’t solve the problem, there may be issues with worn-out or malfunctioning internal parts like springs, pins, or the cylinder. You may need to tighten certain parts or replace them altogether. 

It’s best to call a locksmith to assess, repair, or rekey/replace your lock. They have the proper tools, parts, and expertise to restore your Schlage safety.

Your Schlage lock can be fixed using DIY methods or professional help. But if all other troubleshooting methods fail, consider replacing the lockset altogether. 

The good news is that Schlage locks are durable, so a replacement lock should give you many years of trouble-free service if maintained.

When to Call a Locksmith for Repairs

While Schlage locks are designed to provide years of trouble-free use, issues that require professional repair or replacement can arise. 

As a homeowner, it’s essential to determine when DIY fixes will no longer cut it, and it’s time to call a certified locksmith.

If the Lock is Jammed or Inoperable,

If your Schlage lock is stuck in the locked or unlocked position and won’t budge no matter what you try, it’s best to contact a locksmith. Forcing the lock might cause permanent damage and require a total replacement.

A locksmith has the proper tools, training, and experience to open the lock without causing harm. The locksmith can inspect the lock to determine if it requires repairs or replacement.

If There Are Visible Damage or Break-in Signs

Any signs of damage to your Schlage locks, such as dents, scratches, or broken housing, indicate it’s time for a locksmith evaluation. The safety may need to be rekeyed or replaced for security.

A locksmith can assess the damage, repair or replace components as needed, and ensure your lock is in proper working order and your home is secured.

If rekeying or reprogramming is required

Over time, keys can become lost, stolen, or worn down. If you need to rekey or reprogram your Schlage lock to work with a new set of keys, it’s best left to a professional locksmith.

They have the equipment and software to rekey and recode your lock to the correct code for your new keys. Attempting to rekey or reprogram a lock yourself could result in permanent damage.

Contact a certified locksmith for issues you can’t resolve with your Schlage lock. They have the proper training, tools, and experience to get your lock functioning correctly while ensuring your home’s security. Your peace of mind is worth a call.

Finding a Qualified Locksmith

If you need to call a locksmith to repair or replace your Schlage lock, it is important to choose a qualified professional locksmith. A qualified locksmith will have the training, experience, and tools to do the job correctly and without damaging your lock or door.

Here are a few tips for finding a qualified locksmith:

• Ask for recommendations from friends, family, or neighbours.

• Check online for locksmiths in your area and also Make sure to check the reviews before calling.

FAQs

Do you have some questions about why your Schlage lock is acting up? Here are some tips for fixing common homeowner issues.

Why won’t my lock unlock?

If your lock won’t unlock with the correct key or code, the problem is usually mechanical. Over time, dirt and debris can build up inside the lock cylinder, preventing the lock from disengaging. Try spraying a lubricant like WD-40 into the keyway and inserting your key in and out a few times. This will unlock your lock by loosening any obstructions.

My key won’t turn in the lock. What’s wrong?

If your key fits the lock but won’t turn, the coil may need rekeying or replacing. As locks age, the pins and tumblers inside can shift or wear down, preventing the correct key from operating the lock. Call a locksmith to rekey or replace your lock. They can also determine if the safety needs replacing or servicing.

My lock is stuck or jammed. How Do I Unstick it?

You must remove and clean it to fix a stuck or jammed lock. A professional locksmith with the correct tools and training should handle this. They can take apart your safety, remove any stuck or broken components, reassemble it, and ensure it functions before putting your door or gate back into service. Forcing a jammed lock can cause permanent damage.

Why does my lock keep malfunctioning?

If you are experiencing recurrent lock problems, particularly with newer safety locks, it could show an issue with the installation or the lock itself. The door or frame may be deformed, the lock incorrectly positioned, or the coil has broken. Have a locksmith inspect your lock and exit to find the problem. They may need to replace broken parts or reinstall the lock to ensure your lock functions properly for your safety.

Conclusion

Troubleshooting Schlage lock issues is manageable with DIY fixes for common problems. However, when the lock is jammed, damaged, or requires rekeying, it's best to call a qualified locksmith. 

Choose a reputable professional through recommendations and online reviews. Ultimately, your goal is to ensure the security of your home and your peace of mind.