My wife's 1998 Honda Civic suddenly wouldn't start this morning. It's been running fine, but when she turned the key she got no response at all.

I disengaged the battery terminals, cleaned them, and reconnected them. Then I jumped the car with my own. That time it cranked, but still wouldn't start.

Any suggestions?

Does it have gas? Do you know anyone with a code scanner tool?

First things first...the battery needs to be fully charged and tested, then go from there.

Install a new battery, after having it fully charged. Most new batteries need to be charged for 3.5 hours, on a 6 amp charger, before they are fully charged. Keep in mind that alternators are battery maintainers, not chargers--they can be burned out by trying to charge a severely discharged battery. Ensure battery terminals and cable connections are clean and tight.

Jumping a modern-day vehicle is dangerous--a spark or voltage spike can easily fry an ECM. Only do it as an absolute last resort.