How To Open Kwikset Lock With Dead Batteries And Without a Key

Kwikset keyless entry locks and smart locks are cutting-edge home security innovations. A keyless lock eliminates the need to dig through your bag for a set of keys, as the door unlocks when a secure key code is entered. As a result, they are an excellent choice for improving your home’s security or adding convenience to your home security system. But what if the battery in your Kwikset lock dies?

A reader recently inquired about how to open a Kwikset lock with a dead battery. And he also didn’t have a key. I understand how frustrating and concerning it can be if your Kwikset lock battery dies while you are locked out of your house. However, there’s no need to panic or worry if you find yourself with a dead battery of a Kwikset lock because the good news is that the task is not as difficult as it appears.

To unlock a Kwikset lock with dead batteries, use the appropriate physical key to unlock the smart lock or jumpstart the lock using a 9V battery if your lock allows. In case of the absence of the key, you can force the deadbolt open as a last resort to gain access to your home. 

In this article, I will help you learn how to unlock a Kwikset lock without a key. We also talk about what should be done if your lock batteries are dead.

How Long Do Batteries Last In A Kwikset Lock?

Batteries are a necessary component of any device. Several factors influence the lifespan of batteries in a Kwikset door lock, including how frequently the door lock is used, the type and brand of batteries used, and the climate. The more frequently you use your door lock, the faster the batteries will deplete. Because cold weather drains batteries faster than hot weather, your door lock batteries will last less time if you live in a cold climate.

If the door is properly aligned, the typical battery life in a Kwikset lock is about 10-12 months, based on ten entries per day. The estimated duration is based on the fact that the lock does not encounter interference when locking or unlocking the door.

What Happens If Kwikset Smart Lock Battery Dies?

What Happens If Kwikset Smart Lock Battery Dies?

The Kwikset Smart Lock will notify you via the status light when the batteries are low. If you observe that the LED light on the interior side of your Kwikset smart lock begins to blink red, it is time for you to replace the batteries of your lock. The keypad flashing red light is another indicator of a low battery in the Kwikset lock. It usually lasts a week before the battery dies completely.

If you use the Kwikset smart lock app, you will also receive low battery notifications through it.

In case you were unable to pay attention to the low battery warnings and your Kwikset lock batteries drain completely, the lock will remain in its last active state, which means that you will no longer be able to lock, unlock, or program your lock using the code.

How To Open A Kwikset Lock With A Dead Battery?

In this section of the article, we will learn various methods of unlocking a Kwikset lock with dead batteries. One of the procedures should work for you if you are locked out of your home.

Use The Physical Key To Unlock Your Kwikset Lock

Use The Physical Key To Unlock Your Kwikset Lock

If the battery of your Kwikset lock dies while being locked out of your house, you may use the physical key of the lock to unlock the lock. The good thing about Kwikset locks is that you can still use the key on the exterior door handle to open the door, which saves you in situations where your lock batteries are dead, or you cannot remember the access code of your Kwikset lock.

Hence, I often recommend my users to keep a spare physical key to your Kwikset lock in your bag or vehicle, even if you use the code to enter your home usually.

Once you unlock your smart lock using the keys, you can replace the batteries of your Kwikset lock to ensure being able to lock and unlock the lock using the code.

Replace The Batteries Of Your Kwikset Lock To Unlock It

Replace The Batteries Of Your Kwikset Lock To Unlock It

Fortunately, Kwikset Lock battery replacement should take no more than a few minutes, and all you need is a set of new batteries and probably a screwdriver. The steps outlined below should assist you in changing the batteries in your Kwikset lock and restoring its functionality.

  • Step 1: Take off the terminal cover by sliding it up on the inside of your Kwikset door lock. Following this, you will notice the battery cartridge. If the cover does not slide up smoothly, there may be screws holding it in place that must be removed using an appropriately sized screwdriver.
  • Step 2: Remove the battery cartridge located on the top of your lock, then lift it up.
  • Step 3: Gently pull one end of the battery up until the battery is loose and can be pulled free from the slot with your fingertip. Repeat this with all the batteries.
  • Step 4: Place four new non-rechargeable AA batteries in the battery slots. The battery compartment includes a diagram of the proper battery position, as well as a symbol indicating the placement of the negative and terminal of the batteries.
  • Step 5: Reinstall the battery cartridge and the battery cover back onto the lock. 
  • Step 6: Unlock your door lock using the user code to enter your home.

Pick Your Kwikset Lock To Open It In Emergency Situations

Pick Your Kwikset Lock To Open It In Emergency Situations

The most well-known method for unlocking a lock without the original key is lock-picking.  However, the procedure may end up damaging your lock or a few parts of it. Hence, I suggest using the procedure only in emergency situations as a last resort. Normally, a lock-picking kit is required for this method. However, a few paper clips will suffice. 

Here’s how to open a Kwikset lock without a key by picking it.

  • Step 1: Place the tension wrench in the lock on the side opposite from where the key’s teeth would typically rest.
  • Step 2: Place the rake into the lock where the teeth of the keys would go while maintaining tension on the tension wrench. 
  • Step 3: Twist the rake, pushing and pulling it out of the lock while being guided by sensation. The key pin should feel like it has reached the shear line.
  • Step 4: Turn the tension wrench in the right direction, and the lock should automatically unlock.

In case you are unable to pick the lock using a lock picking tool and are in urgent need to unlock the lock, you may take a locksmith’s help to open the lock using a drilling tool. 

How To Reset Kwikset Lock?

Considering resetting the code of your Kwikset lock after a locksmith visit? Or, there must’ve been times when you forgot the code to your Kwikset Smart Lock. Perhaps you are concerned that your code has been compromised by an unauthorized individual. Or maybe you’re moving into a new place with a Kwikset Smart Lock. Or, like me, you prefer to change your code every few months for maximum security and need to perform a Kwikset smart lock reset.

Whatever the reason, resetting your Kwikset lock can be done easily by following some simple instructions. Refer to my article about resetting the Kwikset lock for detailed procedures to reset several models of Kwikset locks.

Frequently Asked Questions 

Q1. Is it possible to use rechargeable batteries in the Kwikset lock?

Answer – It isn’t recommended to use rechargeable batteries in your Kwikset lock. The only batteries that should be installed in your Kwikset locks are AA alkaline batteries.

Q2. Can I use rechargeable batteries in my Kwikset lock?

Answer – Usually, it is possible to cut the keys of Kwikset locks, but some locks have a specific security feature that deters cracking the code to make a duplicate key using the lock. In such a case, it is nearly impossible to cut a key without having the original key.

Q3. How will I know if I need to replace the batteries in my Kwikset smart lock?

Answer – If the LED light on the interior side of the lock begins to blink red, you’ll need to replace the batteries in your Kwikset smart lock. A red light on the keypad is another indicator. The batteries usually last for a week after the first indication of low batteries.

Conclusion

If your Kwikset lock’s battery is dead, then this article should have helped you open your Kwikset lock with a dead battery. There is no need to pay a locksmith to open your lock if you follow the instructions. Instead, you can save money and impress your friends and family by doing it yourself. 

To have your Kwikset lock with dead batteries unlock, you may either use the physical key of the lock to open it or replace the dead batteries to be able to unlock it. You may also force open the lock in emergency situations.

In case you have more questions about Kwikset locks, write to me in the comment section.

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