Remote Unlock Not Working From the App? How to Fix Fleet Lock Issues
Charles Alexis
Remote unlock should save you a trip. When the app says “command sent” and the doors stay locked, here is what to check.
How remote unlock works
When you tap unlock, the command goes from the app to the platform, then over the mobile network to a device in the vehicle, which then talks to the car’s locking system. That device might be an aftermarket unit, or the car’s own built-in connectivity.
A failure at any step means no unlock.
Cause 1: the vehicle is offline
If the device in the vehicle cannot get mobile signal, the command never arrives. Common in underground car parks, multi storeys and rural areas.
Fix: check when the vehicle last reported. If it is offline, try moving the driver to the vehicle with a backup key, or wait until it comes back into coverage.
Cause 2: the device is asleep
To save the car battery, many devices go into deep sleep when parked. They only check for commands every so often. The unlock may arrive minutes later, or not at all if it times out.
Fix: check the sleep settings. A good setup balances battery life with fast response.
Cause 3: low vehicle battery
If the 12V battery is low, the car’s locking system may not respond, and the device may switch itself off to protect the battery.
Fix: check the vehicle’s voltage on the platform if available. A car that has been parked for weeks may simply be flat. See our guide to GPS tracker draining car battery.
Cause 4: doors re-lock automatically
Many cars automatically re-lock if no door is opened within a short time after unlocking. If the driver is not at the vehicle when you unlock, it locks itself again.
Fix: only send the unlock when the driver is standing at the vehicle.
Cause 5: install or configuration issue
For aftermarket devices, the unit needs to be wired or configured for that specific vehicle. If it is set up for the wrong model, the command does nothing.
Fix: check the install and configuration with your installer.
Cause 6: car’s own security settings
Some cars have settings that block remote unlocking in certain conditions, or require the fob nearby. Check the vehicle supports remote access.
You can check which vehicles support remote access with our remote access checker.
Cause 7: app or account issues
- Check the user has permission to unlock that vehicle.
- Log out and back in.
- Check the app is up to date.
Remote lock not working
The same causes apply in reverse. Also check all doors, the boot and the bonnet are fully closed. Many cars refuse to lock with a door ajar.
For rental and Turo operators
Remote unlock is how many rental and peer-to-peer operators do contactless handovers. When it fails, a customer is stuck at the vehicle. That is why fast response and good coverage matter.
Traknova’s keyless access works with supported vehicles and devices, with status and command history on the dashboard so you can see what happened. See our guide to remotely unlocking fleet vehicles and our Turo page.
Summary
Check the vehicle is online, awake and has a healthy battery. Make sure the driver is at the vehicle before unlocking, so it does not re-lock. Then check install and permissions.