Glove Compartment lock not working

[Jeeped]

Greetings,

I have a 2001 Passat Wagon GLX and the other day, my 10 yr. old son somehow broke the locking mechanism of the glove compartment. It is jammed in the closed position. The lock release when pulled, is basically useless. It seems an internal spring or wire has become disengaged from the lock release handle.

Can anyone give me advice on how to repair (besides taking to the dealer). If I can take the glove compartment out, I think I can reattach the locking mechanism.

Thanks.

[veedubmechanic]

Sounds fun!
Now is it the actual key lock that is broke? WHen you put a key in does it turn at all? does the handle pull up at all?

[Jeeped]

Originally Posted by veedubmechanic

Sounds fun!
Now is it the actual key lock that is broke? WHen you put a key in does it turn at all? does the handle pull up at all?

Key actually turns in the cylinder. Handle pulls up but with no action on the locking mechanism. Actually, since my first post, I was able to pry the door open but I think I permanently broke the latch catch. Now the door opens (I have to duct-tape it closed) but how do you get to the latches? I don't see any screws and it seems the door is glued together.
Any ideas?

[veedubmechanic]

Well you're SOL on this one. VW built the glovebox lid arround the lock. Just like you said vw made the lock and then enclosed it into the lid. You're only option is to buy a new lid which is... if i remember right.. about 100$ Takes about an hour to remove and install. Try a junkyart first, see if they have one. The lock is removeable w/ a small screwdriver, just make sure the key is in the lock before you take it out or the lock will come apart and then... yea.... have fun getting it back together right.