This seems to be a common failure. The lock and lock motor assembly need to be replaced. I'm working on the same problem on my 2000 focus right now. I'm trying to get the lock cylinder of from the old lock/motor assembly. Any advice?
There may be something blocking the trunk.
A 2001 Jetta has an emergency trunk release lever along the side of the trunk. It allows children or those accidentally locked in the trunk to easily escape from inside.
On a 01 model, you should have a trunk release button in the trunk, or on the drivers door. If that doesnt work, you can see about lowering the rear seats down, and getting into the trunk that way. There should be a little pull strap near the trunk lock that will open the trunk. There is a trunk release button - when you open the glovebox, it is to the left of the opening so that it cannot be seen unless glovebox is open.
Should be in the "trunk"/luggage area, on the left, behind the upholstery.
Glove Box
If you do not have a yellow trunk release button in the glove box. there is an emergancy release handle inside of the trunk. Fold down your rear seat back and there is a white plastic handle pull it and the trunck will open.
It is down on the kick panel in front of the drivers door.
Read your manual. There is a switch in the glove box to disable the trunk release button on the dash. you lock the glove box with the regular key. When you give someone the valet key they can not get in the trunk.
how do you install trunk light on 2001 impala
Inside the glove box on the left side. There is a button. Push it.
This entire process is shown in a video here: JettaTrunk.com
In the rear (trunk/luggage) area, on the left, behind the panel.