1996 Century won't start

[Plethora22]

So my g/f went outside this morning, after having no problems whatsoever yesterday, and her car wouldn't start. Niether of us have much auto experience, but I'll try and describe what I know.

The engine doesn't turn over, when you turn the key it clicks but thats it. However its not the battery itself because everything else has power (radio, headlights, etc.).

We found a plug in the engine that isn't plugged into anything (maybe it got knocked loose?) but we cannot find anywhere to plug it into. When we found it was just laying there not plugged into anything, didn't seem to be near anything special. So is this most likely the problem? If so where should we be looking to plug it in? Is it at all possible that it was never plugged in and we should be looking elsewhere?

If its not the problem, where else should we be looking?

-Pleth

[Bassasasin]

To solve the plug problem you must identify where you found it and what or where it comes from.. Photos would help us.

To solve a no crank problem you have to determine where in the circuit it has failed. Testing for voltages..
Such as: When you turn the key to start is there voltage to the solenoid on the starter. If not work backwards to the start relay. Further back to the ignition switch.
Really tough from here without more info. Need a circuit diagram and familiarization with the circuit.

Good Luck

[GTP Dad]

I suggest two things, first check the battery connections to the battery. Clean and tighten them. Second, you may want to jump the car with another battery to see if it starts. Just because you have lights doesn't mean that you have enough amperage in the battery to start the car. If it starts with a jump then either recharge or replace the battery.

[Scrapper]

i don't think that plug in you found is the problem should steal turn over but yes you need to find where it gose..but i think starter.....good luck.

[wrightz28]

Turning the key and only getting a click is usually a sign there is not enough amperage to engage the starter, the click is usually the pinion gear moving into position on the flexplate. Either the connections are bad, or you do not have enough battery power.