How to Fix an Entry Door Knob That Locks Accidentally

If you or the other members of your household frequently get locked out of the house, it may be the result of a faulty entry door knob lock. If the tab on the interior side of the knob is loose, you may be turning it accidentally when you close the door behind you. If the tab turns normally, or doesn't turn at all, and the lock still engages, the interior lock mechanism may be to blame. You can disassemble the lock, repair, tighten and reassemble it before resorting to full replacement.

Phillips screwdriver
Pen
Silicone-based lubricant
Hex wrench

Instructions

- 1
  Remove the trim screws from the interior side of the door knob with a Phillips screwdriver.
- 2
  Remove the trim screws from the edge plate and pull the bolt or bevel assembly and plate from the edge of the door.
- 3
  Press the tip of a pen into the release button on the side of the knob, if present, and pull the interior knob away from the exterior knob.
- 4
  Brush all dirt, sawdust or debris out of the lock assembly within the door.
- 5
  Spray a silicone-based lubricant into the lock assembly.
- 6
  Insert a Phillips screwdriver or hex wrench into the back of the interior side of the knob and tighten the setscrew at least 2 turns.
- 7
  Tighten setscrews on the bolt or bevel assembly at least 2 turns.
- 8
  Replace the bolt or bevel assembly and secure the edge plate trim screws with a Phillips screwdriver.
- 9
  Replace the knobs. Press until they click together.
- 10
  Replace and tighten the trim screws with a Phillips screwdriver.
- 11
  Insert the key and test the lock. Disassemble and tighten all set screws another 2 turns if the lock is still too loose.

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