If your 2011 VW Jetta trunk won’t open, the most common cause is an accidental activation of the Jetta’s “valet mode,” which restricts access to the trunk. You can turn this off by clicking the valet mode button located inside your glove box.

Of course, this is only one of the several possible causes of a faulty trunk. That’s why

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What to do if your 2011 Volkswagen Jetta trunk won’t open

If your 2011 Jetta’s trunk won’t open with the trunk latch or key fob, you might want to try troubleshooting on your own before bringing your car to a VW dealer.

Most common cause: valet mode accidentally activated

Your stubborn trunk might not be malfunctioning after all—it might be as simple as an inadvertent triggering of one of its security features.

The 2011 Jetta has a valet mode that disables access to several parts of your car, including the trunk. It gets its name from letting the valet drive your car, but it can be a useful safety measure any time you are temporarily handing your keys over to a stranger (or a friend).

Unfortunately, it can be very easy to forget when you have valet mode on—and just as easy to flip it on without realizing it. It can be as simple as hitting the button when you reach for something in your glove box or just having too much stuff in there and an item clicking the button without your knowledge.

Take a look inside your Jetta glove box to see if valet mode has been turned on—you should see a button in the back towards the upper left hand side. If the button is illuminated orange, then valet mode is activated and you have found the root of the problem. Just click the button off and your trunk should open right back up.

Other possible causes

If you conclude that valet mode is not the problem, you could be looking at a bigger issue, such as a faulty electrical system or damaged latch. Below are some additional possible causes to be aware of:

Broken key fob: If the trunk opens with the buttons on the driver's side door or trunk, a busted key fob may be to blame.

Faulty door switch: If your key fob is the only thing that will open your trunk, the trunk switches on the door or trunk could be broken.

Electrical malfunction: There are many electrical components in a car, and a faulty wire, failed actuator, or blown fuse could be the problem.

Broken latch: If the actuator is working but the trunk still won’t open, the trunk latch itself might be damaged.

If you believe any of these problems are present, bring your Jetta to a VW dealership so an automotive specialist can properly diagnose and repair the issue. They will inspect the fuse box, electrical systems, latches, and any other parts that could be the cause of your trunk woes.

MORE:

Trunk latch release cable replacement cost

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How to manually open a 2011 Volkswagen Jetta trunk

Going to the dealer is always a great way to resolve any problem with your car—but what if you need your trunk open as soon as humanly possible?

You’ll be happy to know that 2011 Jettas have an emergency trunk release that can be accessed from inside the car, and you’ll only need a few supplies to reach it.

In order to reach the emergency release, you will need to remove the backseat, which can be done with a socket wrench, and a little elbow grease.

Begin by folding down the backrest part of the backseat.

Pull up the carpet to find the black plastic piece in between the seat cushions and remove it by releasing the two tabs on its bottom.

Use your socket wrench to unscrew the black metal bracket and reveal a pull lever.

Pull this lever to release the seat and remove it from the car.

This is definitely not the most efficient way to get into your trunk, but if you are looking for a last resort, this can gain you access.

Cost of trunk repair for 2011 Volkswagen Jetta

The price you will pay for your trunk repair will depend on its diagnosis, replacement parts, as well as your location.

For example, a replacement lock hatch will cost you about $53 for just the part if you buy it from the

VW Parts Online Store

. Add in the cost of labor and you could be looking at a bill closer to $200. You’ll likely face similar prices for a

trunk lock actuator replacement

and fresh

trunk latch release cables

If the problem turns out to be that bothersome valet system, or you only need a

trunk latch adjustment

, your bill will be considerably less because you will only need to pay for labor and not parts.

Generally speaking, Jetta trunk repairs are reasonably affordable. However, if your trunk was damaged in an accident or severe weather and requires a whole new trunk lid, you will likely pay upwards of $500 for the part alone!

MORE:

All about comprehensive car insurance

How to save on Volkswagen Jetta insurance

Owning and maintaining a car can be expensive—especially trunk repairs that require an entirely new lid. We know unexpected expenses can pile up at the most inopportune times, and you’ll want to find ways to save wherever possible. That’s where

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