<!-- from fixya rte -->1999 Q45t runs for 3-seconds, then dies? - 1997 Infiniti.5 Q45

You may be having an intermittent failure with the fuel pressure regulator - checking the fuel pressure when the truck won't start may pinpoint this problem. If the pressure looks OK, this same problem can be caused by the ignition system as well (ignition coil or control module).

When an engine dies that quickly, it is often too quick to set a Code. You might try to hook up a scanner to see if it wants to tell you what the Code is.

I remember 3 things similar to your problem. One condition is a incomplete feedback loop from an O2 sensor, the second is a difference in airflow where the MAF reads a different airflow than a part further into the engine like the TPS, and the last is the two computer transfer failure where the startup computer works and the main computer does not.

Are you sure you didn't run out of gas? It sure sounds like it.

Check your fuel pressure. It may be low, or losing pressure from a bad pressure regulator. A thorough test of your fuel system seems in order. (A pressure test can also detect a bad regulator, if it's done properly.)

Check your fuel injectors

Does it have a built in anti-theft system?

take out your mass airflow sensor located on air intake pipe and clean with brake cleaner also is your engine light on?

i have 2 keys for my passat.with 1 key the engine runs perfect and with the other key the engine runs 2-3 seconds

try replacing the throttle positioning sensor its on the throttle body

i gaurantee that it is the fuel pump ressistor up on the passenger side front behind head lamp assembly you will find the connector with two wires going to it. no need to remove old one install new one and connect wires to new one leave old in. dealer only part but not expensive. dont belive dealer when they try to talk you out of it. This is a kit to relocate a ressistor that has been installed in a poor location. I promise this will fix it. My wifes car did the same thing, took 20 minutes to fix and that is only because i am an electrician and am finicky about where to locate wires etc. the kit comes with installation instructions however they are a little vague. trust me. easy fix. my dealer tried to get me to leave car for repair and said it sounds like the theft detterent system. they were wrong and i was right. dont trust em