Yes leejxxxxx ..... I agree. No jumping. Try another battery first.
Yes a solenoid on the starter will corrode as well as the connection.
I agree that bad solenoid contacts will cause this condition. Again a good smack might make it contact. Of course a replacement is in order. You might be able to replace just the solenoid / relay part. I always take the time to seal the covers with RTV and coat the cable / wire connection with paint RTV or something. This area is exposed to the elements

I'm glad I'm not the only one who thinks this about jump starting.

I'll never understand what it is that affects battery life. I've had some fail on daily drivers within six months. I've got a car now I haven't started in 4 months and its battery is in good shape.

Phelan, please let us know what it was.

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Current Crop:
2002 ML500
1997 SL600
1969 Corvette (for sale, perfect shape)
1984 RX7 GSLSE

Wanted:
a diesel MB!
Looking for a new SL.

Charged the battery and the car starts! whew!. Funny car would not start prior to charging with jumpers in place? Anyway a new battery Monday. What is the correct battery type and best make?.

I would recommend you get one from the dealer. It may cost you a few bucks more, but you will rest assure that it is the right one for the car. I found buying one from an auto store or Sears really does not save you all that much money. I knew because I bought one for my SL from the dealer to replace the OEM one that came with the car in '95.

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95 R129
04 Infiniti G35.5 BS
10 X204

Go to Pep Boys or Autozone for battery terminal cleaner (wire brush) made for the battery. They will also have a terminal coating in an spray can to help prevent corrosion. they will also have anti-corrosion impregnated felt rings to go under cables. Cheap insurance against non-starting.

Tim