can a hole in the oil pan of a 2000 Jetta be repaired by patching the outside of the pan with something such as JB Weld?

I would recommend just replacing the pan. With the oil pan and oil getting very hot and with it being petroleum based it may have the tendency to make the jb weld deteriorate and fall off. In the end it would be cheaper to replace the oil pan then to run it out of oil and lock it up if the jb weld were to ever come off.

drill, tap plug w/ a bolt if your stranded in the desert

Pan replacement is Required!

replace the oilpan. dont try to repair it, unless your stranded, and need a quick repair to get you home.

Call 1-800-VWPARTS and get a replacement.

Never patch a oil pan, unless your taking the car to auction the next day....always replace with a good used or I recommend a new one since your going threw all that work to take it off might as well do it right the first time.