How to Troubleshoot Safes

Ensure that the combination dial is set to zero should the problem be that your safe has a key that will not turn. Check that the key is inserted all the way before attempting to turn it.

Check the lock-bolt pressure if your combination only opens the safe intermittently. There should be some free play in the handle, moving it from left to right. Dial the combination again. You may have bolt pressure because of the placement of the interior shelves or the way you stored your items.

Make sure that the lock is not locked and that the locking bolts are not sticking out if your safe door will not shut. The interior shelves may also be sticking out too far. Push them back. Verify that the floorboard is pressed down securely to the bottom of the safe. Ensure that the handle travels the same distance with the door closed as it does when the door is open.

Move the safe's handle to the fully locked position if the electronic lock on your safe will not open. Sometimes, the safe's locking mechanism can place pressure on the side of the lock's bolt. Often this is the result of something inside the safe pressing against the door or its frame. If you have a direct-drive lock, ensure that the keypad is turned counterclockwise to stop. Reenter your code. If you hear a "chirping" noise when you press the keys, the battery may be drained. Refer to your owner's manual for instructions on how to replace your particular safe's battery.

Check to see if the battery needs to be replaced if your safe's electronic lock will not engage. If you have a single battery keypad, your battery may not be making contact with the metal contact tabs. These are located at the top of the inside of the battery tray compartment. Remove the battery tray and gently bend down the thin contact tabs. Replace the battery tray and reenter your code. It may take a few tries to get the lock to work again.