Installing Your Yale Approach Lock with WiFi

What's in the Box

The Yale Approach Lock with WiFi package includes the interior lock assembly with a built-in WiFi module, a mounting plate, an adapter ring to fit various deadbolt brands, a DoorSense magnet, four AA batteries, installation hardware, and an installation guide. The Approach Lock is unique because it replaces only the interior side of your existing deadbolt — you keep your current exterior hardware, keys, and keyhole. This makes it the easiest Yale lock to install since there is no exterior disassembly required and no new holes to drill.

Prerequisites

Before installing the Approach Lock, verify the following:

• You have an existing single-cylinder deadbolt that is compatible (the Approach Lock works with most major deadbolt brands including Schlage, Kwikset, Yale, and Baldwin)
• The existing deadbolt tailpiece extends at least 5/16 inch from the interior side of the door
• Door thickness is between 1-3/8 inches and 2-1/4 inches
• A 2.4 GHz WiFi network is available for remote access
• The Yale Access app is installed on your smartphone (iOS or Android)
• A Yale account is registered in the app
• A Phillips-head screwdriver

Step-by-Step Installation

1. Remove your existing interior deadbolt assembly by unscrewing the two mounting screws that hold the interior thumb turn to the door. Keep the exterior side of the deadbolt in place — do not remove it.
2. Check the tailpiece (the metal bar connecting the exterior side to the interior thumb turn). If it extends far enough, you may need to trim it using the measurement guide in the instructions. The Approach Lock includes adapter rings for different tailpiece shapes.
3. Select the correct adapter ring for your existing deadbolt brand. The included guide shows which ring matches Schlage, Kwikset, and other common brands. Attach the adapter to the lock assembly.
4. Position the Approach Lock mounting plate on the interior side of the door, aligning it with the existing screw holes. The plate may need slight adjustment depending on your deadbolt configuration.
5. Slide the Approach Lock assembly onto the mounting plate, engaging the tailpiece through the adapter ring. Secure it with the included screws.
6. Insert four AA batteries into the lock and close the battery cover.
7. Install the DoorSense magnet on the door frame aligned with the mark on the lock. This allows the lock to detect whether the door is open or closed.
8. Test the lock by pressing the lock and unlock buttons on the interior unit. The bolt should extend and retract smoothly.

App Pairing and Configuration

Open the Yale Access app and tap "Set Up a New Device." Select the Approach Lock and follow the Bluetooth pairing instructions. After initial pairing, the app will guide you through connecting the lock to your 2.4 GHz WiFi network for remote access. Configure auto-lock to automatically engage the deadbolt after a set time — 30 seconds is recommended. Enable DoorSense alerts so you get a notification if the door is left open for more than a few minutes. Since the Approach Lock does not have an exterior keypad, entry codes are not available — unlocking is done via the Yale Access app, your physical key (on the existing exterior side), or through smart home integrations.

Smart Home Integration Tips

The Approach Lock with WiFi supports Amazon Alexa, Google Assistant, and Apple HomeKit. Link your Yale account through the integrations section in the Yale Access app. With HomeKit, the lock works natively with Siri and the Apple Home app. Set up geofencing so the door automatically unlocks as you approach and locks when you leave. With Alexa, use voice commands like "Alexa, lock the front door" and include the lock in routines. The Yale Access app lets you share temporary access with others — even without a keypad, you can grant app-based access to guests or send them a notification to unlock the door remotely when they arrive.

Quick Troubleshooting

If the Approach Lock does not turn the bolt, check that the adapter ring matches your deadbolt brand and that the tailpiece is properly engaged. A grinding noise during operation usually means the tailpiece adapter is not aligned correctly — remove the lock, verify the adapter, and reinstall. If the lock connects via Bluetooth but not WiFi, move your router closer or add a WiFi extender near the door. If the DoorSense feature reports the door as open when it is closed, reposition the magnet on the frame so it is directly aligned with the sensor mark on the lock body.