2006 VW Jetta. Exterior door handle does not work.

If I am remembering correctly, the switch is part of the latch. Each door has its own switch to turn on the interior light, and it sounds like the switch in the driver's door latch is either stuck or junk. If it has to be replaced it is very simple to remove for those that know how, but a nightmare for those that don't. The exterior handle has to be removed to release the pull-cord to the latch, interior trim panel and vapor barrier has to come off. Electrical harness, lock rod, interior handle rod, all have to be removed. Now the latch. Then it all has to go back together, and most importantly, it all has to work. I'm not saying it's not possible. I'm saying that it can ruin your day and your wallet if something goes wrong.

Remove the inner door panel and make sure the actuator rod for the exterior handle is still engaged. If it is then the handle itself needs to be replaced.

There is only one screw holding the door handle in, the screw is right on the inside of the door. Its right above where the door attaches to the door.

Open door and look where striker is,just above striker towards outer door is a black plastic insert,remove that,looking inside the smaller hole is a little black bar,with a hook pull bar towards yourself,will only move very little,then go to outside of door and pull handle out like to open,and pull the stationary part of handle out,let go of handle,slide handle out towards back of vehicle.

I might have the solution for your problem. I paid $1,700 to learn it.
I might start a class action against VW
Please call me at 450-346-2617

Turn headlights on and then pull switch outwards [towards you] to switch fog lights on.

I had the same problem with our 2006 Jetta ... it was the wiring harness in the driver's door. Cost was under $700 bucks installed ... I am in New England.

I think the mechanism is broken, if I am not mistaken the exterior handle has plastic retaining clips that often break---a new exterior handle should do it, try to order by vin so it may come painted

There is usually a manual release in the trunk. You might have to pull back the covers to see it.

If you pop the hood, there should be a blub door right behind the headlight. Open the door, turn the bulb and it should pop out, ready for the new bulb