Circuits and methods for an automatic coarse tuning in a phase locked loop (PLL) include observing a variation in a control voltage to disable a fine loop and to enable a coarse loop as the control voltage departs from a specified range. The circuit includes the fine loop, the coarse loop, and a control circuit. The fine loop includes a phase frequency detector (PFD), a charge pump, a loop filter, a VCO and a divider. The coarse loop includes a frequency detector, an up counter, a down counter, and an LC VCO. The control circuit includes a bandgap module, a comparator and other circuits such as a lock detect circuit. The control circuit is used to switch between the coarse loop and the fine loop.