well i just went out to my car and turned the lights on and then tried to start the car and it started... so now im really puzzled

Have the battery tested. You stated the terminals (both ends of both cables) are clean and tight. Is there any pattern to this. If the car has been sitting for a long period does it not start.

Just for grins-2dr (coupe, hatch) 4dr / auto or stick...just my own research on 3rd gens still on the road.