Kwikset Door Handing Error — How to Fix

What Does This Error Mean?

Door Handing Error on a Kwikset smart lock means the lock does not know which direction the door swings — left-hand or right-hand — and therefore does not know which direction to drive the motor to lock and unlock. The fix is to run the door handing procedure, which the lock performs automatically by detecting the bolt's movement direction during setup.

Affected Models

Kwikset Halo
Kwikset Halo Touch
Kwikset SmartCode 888
Kwikset SmartCode 914
Kwikset Convert Smart Lock

Common Causes

Lock was installed without completing the initial door handing setup procedure
Lock was factory reset and door handing was not reconfigured afterward
Batteries were replaced and the lock lost its stored configuration (rare, but can happen on some models)
Lock was moved from one door to another with different handing

How to Fix It

Remove the interior cover to access the battery pack

Slide or unclip the interior cover off the Kwikset lock. You will need access to the battery pack and the Program button, which is typically a small button on the interior assembly behind the batteries.
Remove and reinsert the battery pack to initiate setup mode

Pull the battery pack out, then reinsert it firmly. The lock will enter setup mode and the keypad will flash. You have approximately 30 seconds to complete the next step before it times out.
Press and release the lock button (or the Program button) once

While the keypad is flashing in setup mode, press the lock button on the exterior keypad once. The lock motor will extend and retract the bolt once to detect the handing direction automatically. You will hear the motor run and the lock will beep to confirm it has learned the handing.
Confirm the lock operates correctly

After completing the handing procedure, test the lock by pressing the lock button on the keypad and then entering your code to unlock. Both actions should operate the deadbolt in the correct direction. If the bolt moves backwards (extends when it should retract), repeat the door handing procedure.
Reinstall the interior cover

Slide or click the interior cover back on. The Door Handing Error should now be resolved and the lock should operate normally. If the error returns repeatedly after completing the procedure, the door handing sensor or motor may have a fault — contact Kwikset support.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need a locksmith to fix a Kwikset door handing error?

No. Door handing setup is designed to be done by the homeowner and takes less than 2 minutes. Follow the steps above or the quick-start guide included with the lock. A locksmith is only needed if the physical lock mechanism (not the smart lock electronics) has a separate issue.

What is door handing and why does the lock need to know it?

Door handing refers to which side the door is hinged — a left-hand door swings open to the left, a right-hand door to the right. The deadbolt bolt on a left-hand door needs the motor to turn in the opposite direction compared to a right-hand door. If the lock does not know the handing, it cannot reliably lock or unlock without risking a jam.