Quick Summary August Auto-Lock fails for three reasons: the feature is disabled or misconfigured in the app, the door sense sensor is not detecting that the do…
Quick Summary
August Auto-Lock fails for three reasons: the feature is disabled or misconfigured in the app, the door sense sensor is not detecting that the door is closed (so the lock thinks the door is still open and won't auto-lock), or the lock's motor calibration is off. Auto-Lock will never engage if August thinks the door is open — this is a safety feature, not a bug.
How August Auto-Lock Works
August Auto-Lock uses the door sense accessory (or the built-in door sense on newer models) to detect whether the door is physically closed. If the door is open, Auto-Lock is suppressed. If the door is closed, Auto-Lock engages after the configured delay (1–30 minutes).
Step 1: Confirm Auto-Lock Is Enabled August app → Settings (gear icon) → Auto-Lock. Confirm the toggle is ON. Set your preferred delay time (5 minutes is a good starting point for most households). Tap Save.
Step 2: Check Door Sense Calibration
Door Sense is the small magnetic sensor that detects whether your door is open or closed. If it's misaligned or uncalibrated, Auto-Lock won't engage. August app → Settings → Door Sense → check the current status with the door physically closed. It should show Closed. If it shows Open when the door is closed: the door sense magnet (mounted on the door frame) is too far from the sensor (mounted on the door). The gap should be less than 1/4 inch. Reposition the magnet closer to the sensor. Use the included adhesive or screws. After repositioning: August app → Settings → Door Sense → Calibrate Door Sense → follow prompts (open and close the door when instructed).
Step 3: Re-Calibrate the Lock Motor
If the lock motor calibration is off, the lock may not complete its full rotation, which prevents Auto-Lock from confirming a successful lock. August app → Settings → Lock → Calibrate Lock. Follow the prompts: the app will ask you to manually lock and unlock the deadbolt with the thumb turn while it learns the full range of motion. After calibration, test Auto-Lock manually by closing the door and waiting for the configured delay.
Step 4: Check for Conflicting Automations
If you use August with Alexa, Google Home, or Apple Home, conflicting automations can override Auto-Lock or reset the schedule. Check Alexa routines: Alexa app → More → Routines → look for any lock/unlock routines that might conflict. Check Apple Home automations: Home app → Automation tab → review any lock-related automations. Temporarily disable all third-party automations and test August Auto-Lock in isolation.
Step 5: Update Firmware and App August app → Settings → Lock → Firmware → update if available. Update the August app via App Store or Google Play. After updating, reconfigure Auto-Lock settings (updates sometimes reset preferences).