Alright guys, new here. I have a 97 Plymouth Neon, ATX that wont crank or start. When I try to turn on the car, there is a clicking sound, about two or three clicks the first time, then one the second time, and then none at all when I try to start it. I let it rest for a few minutes and then I hear the clicks again in that order. The battery is fine, lights and radio turn on and wont dim while attempting to start. I also want to mention that I have an aftermarket button start switch that previous owner installed and has worked fine ever since we got the car (12+ years) (a little silver button at the bottom of the dash that you push to start) just wanted to let you guys know to see if this is important.

Anyways, a possible problem is that I was foolish enough to pressure wash the engine bay and undercarriage myself at a self-serve car wash. I did cover the air filter with a plastic bag and no water entered. Also, the coil pack was covered up, but it did get wet anyways. What is interesting though is that the car started up fine, got me home. The next day I drove to and form the store. It has been about 4 days now, and the car has been siting in the garage and NOW it wont start. So I don't know if the power wash is the culprit. (either way, I wont be doing that again, I've read that this is definitely NOT wise.)

So that is the scenario, I am completely clueless. I'm am going to need some help trying to diagnose this one. Where do you guys suggest I begin with? How should I go about solving this? The thing is that it can be many things, and I don't have the knowledge/experience to pin-point it out immediately. I saw some people say start with the fuse box, then spark plugs, wires, coil pack? I don't know, I definitely don't want to spend too much money replacing things here and there. Tips/Opinions? Anyone been here before? With that in mind, what is that click when I try to start it, the spark or just the starter attempting to put out a spark? It is SIMILAR to the sound of a dead battery, but only goes of a few times compared to the constant clicking of a dead battery. I appreciate your time & input, THANKS FORUM!

 

could be useful to give us a bit more info. If you can test your battery/alternator ect. If not a local autopart store ussualy does it free. just because your radio/lights can come on doesn't mean it's giving enough volts to crank it. Also check for loose grounds or possible something coming off your positive terminal that is grounding out. This will draw battery power. Get it tested and let us know so we can be more helpful.