Free help & advice Learn more

A Proud Australian Company Learn more

AUSLOCK Mechanical Keyhole Cover Coming Off (Fix, Refit & Prevent It)

Sabit Esati |

AUSLOCK keyhole cover coming off? Here’s the correct fix (and how to stop it happening again).

The mechanical keyhole cover is designed to protect the key override from dust, moisture, and scratches. If it keeps coming off, it’s usually caused by one of these: not seated correctly, clip wear, or door/frame contact.

Before you start

  • Keep the door open while testing.
  • Do not use strong glue that could damage the finish or block emergency key access.
  • If your door is outdoors, make sure the area is dry before refitting.

Step 1 — Clean and inspect

  1. Remove the cover and wipe the cover + surrounding area with a dry microfiber cloth.
  2. Check for dust/oil buildup (this can stop it gripping properly).
  3. Inspect the cover tabs/clips for damage (bent, cracked, or worn edges).

Step 2 — Refit correctly (most people miss this)

  1. Align the cover to the correct orientation (top/bottom matters on some covers).
  2. Press the cover on evenly (don’t push one side only).
  3. Press until you feel a firm “click” or the cover sits flush with no wobble.
  4. Lightly tap around the cover—if it shifts, it’s not seated correctly yet.

Step 3 — Identify the real cause (so it doesn’t return)

Cause A: Door/frame contact

  • If the cover rubs the frame when closing, it can pop off over time.
  • Check clearance by closing slowly and watching if the cover touches the frame/door stop.
  • If it does, you’ll need a small adjustment (strike/door stop/closing pressure) so the lock face doesn’t contact the frame.

Cause B: Clip wear (pops off repeatedly)

  • If the cover has popped off multiple times, the retaining clip may be worn.
  • Refitting may work temporarily, but the permanent fix is a replacement cover/clip.

Cause C: Outdoor moisture / cleaning chemicals

  • Moisture and some cleaners can reduce grip or weaken small clips.
  • Use only mild cleaning (microfiber cloth, light wipe). Avoid harsh solvents.

What NOT to do

  • Don’t use superglue/epoxy on the keyhole area.
  • Don’t block the mechanical key override—this is your emergency access method.
  • Don’t force the cover if it’s misaligned; refit evenly instead.

If you need a replacement cover

If the cover continues to fall off after refitting, request a replacement. Send AUSLOCK Support:

  • A close-up photo of the keyhole cover area
  • A photo of the cover (front + back)
  • Whether the door is indoor/outdoor and if it contacts the frame

Contact AUSLOCK Support


← Back to Troubleshooting | Help Centre

Leave a comment