My Saturn SL2 Won't Turn On After Changing the Battery

[rogerscm85]

Hi Everyone,
I was hoping someone would be able to help me out because I don't know much about cars. The battery in my 1997 Saturn SL2 wouldn't hold a charge, so instead of jumping my car each time I needed to use it, I bought a battery and had my fiance install it. After the new battery was put into the car it started right up, but the next morning when I went to go to work it wouldn't start. It makes a noise like it wants to start it just won't actually do it. I didn't know if anyone knew a solution to this problem. I hope someone can help because walking everywhere is getting annoying.
Thanks!

[Collins Car Care]

Sounds like you have a parasitic draw..

[drew300]

Does an SL2 have a trunk light? I've seen that on/off switch go bad on other cars. And check for an odd courtesy lamp that may be stuck on. Other than that, You'll have to find some-one who can use a voltmeter.

[rogerscm85]

It makes a noise like it wants to turn on though. The lights still also turn on. Would it have anything to do with the battery if it still does these things???

[drew300]

1)So your hi beams are still good and bright? 2) even when trying to crank?
If they're bright when trying to crank, you could have bad (corroded usually) connections either at the battery or the starter motor. Or a bad starter motor. Also check for a good engine to chassis ground. (mine is at the upper motor mount, passenger side to the strut tower area).