Fords are notorius for starters selinoids sticking especially if there has been a weather event like, rain, cold weather, or sometimes if the sun goes down....lol For a quick start....locate the starter....tap on the unit as someone tries the ignition....usually pops right off.... Now for the bad news.....you have the purchase of a new starter in your future.
you should be able to start your jimmy up right after you install your new battery...if it doesnt, I would replace or clean your battery cable terminals and see if that works!
Answer: Check your starter
There are several reasons why a 1998 Ford Contour will not start. The car may not start if the battery is dead, the starter may need replaced, or the head gaskets are blown.
It will either run rough or won't start at all
Get a new starter...lol.
No you do not need a battery, but the lights and horn will not work unless you have a battery installed, dead or not.
This is often from a dead battery.
Put the wire back.
You have a flat battery! Check that your batter terminals are connected
u might need a new starter
You may have a weak or dead battery.
Use battery load tester and properly test battery. When battery fails, replace it.