2001 Volkswagen TDI Door Locks

2001 VOLKSWAGEN JETTA TDI
140,000 MILES • 4 CYL • FWD • MANUAL
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TAVISLE
  • MEMBER
  • 1 POST
The driver door will not unlock from the outside. I have to unlock all the car doors by turning the key twice, open a different door, reach in and open the driver door from the inside. Once unlocked the latch works fine from both inside and out. (Note: the key remote doesn't work since it went through the wash, so I don't know if that would work.)
I have Haynes Manual, but I don't know what I'm looking for once I get into the driver door.
Oct 8, 2010 at 2:43 PM
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DOCHAGERTY
  • ✓Experienced Mechanic
  • 9,606 POSTS
German cars usually have this problem when the suspect door lock actuator has failed, try replacement of the drivers door lock actuator. I recommend purchasing a Robert Bentley manual for your German car, the Haynes manual is pretty much a waste of paper and ink.
Oct 8, 2010 at 4:33 PM
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VWSCOTT
  • MEMBER
  • 66 POSTS
haynes manuals are loaded with misinformation and will only get you in trouble.
Jul 6, 2012 at 5:20 PM
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RIVERMIKERAT
  • ✓Experienced Mechanic
  • 6,110 POSTS
Tavisle, have you fixed this yet? Most likely what's happened is the connecting rod from the lock cylinder to the locking portion of the latch has fallen off. Replace the grommet/locking clip with a new one (Autozone/Pepe Boys) and reattach the rod, and you should be set.
Jul 24, 2012 at 8:03 PM
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