97 SL2 starting problem

[Jules80]

My 97 Saturn SL2 is not starting. The problem began about two weeks ago. It wouldn't start, but two hours later it started with no problems. It has done this a few times since the first time. Now, it is not starting at all. The radio still works, as well as the dash lights, daytime running lights, and dome light. Sometimes when I try to start it, it clicks, but other times it does not. The altenator, battery, water pump, and fuel pump are all fairly new. Any ideas about what's wrong?? Starter??

[sierrap615]

first i don't want to confuse the difference of a no start and a no crank. a no start is where the starter engines the engine, turns it, but the engine will not run on its own. a no crank is is when the starter does nothing or trys to engage the engine but fails to make it turn. if you can only hear a click but not the whurl of the engine or starter turning its a no crank. just a click noise means one of three things:

1. the starter is not getting enough power(common)
2. the starter is bad(almost as common)
3. the engine is seized(rare)

from the fact you just replaced the battery and alternator, i'm going to guess number 1. if so then possibltys are:

1. loose battery cables
2. weak battery - assuming its the right size -possiblely it was sitting at the auto shop on the rack so long it was discharged a bit, if so jump-start it and in time the battery will recharge its self - i would discount this theory if the battery is more then two weeks old.
3. bad alternator - its possible the alternator didn't fail randomly. but something caused it to fail(like a oil leak above the alternator or an exhaust leak) - in this case, a jump start should start the car.

ether way, if it is a no crank a jump start couldn't hurt.

if on the other hand its a no start then more likey its a bad CPS, but thats another story.

keep in mind those are just theorys, really couldn't tell with out seeing the car for my self