Error P1320 on Nissan: why it lights up and how to fix it

Fault code P1320 - one of the most common problems in ignition systems Nissan, which may appear on models from Qashqai And X-Trail to Juke And Note. This error is related to the operation of the ignition coils and is often accompanied by engine stalling, loss of power, or even complete cylinder failure. Unlike many other codes, P1320 does not always indicate a breakdown of the coil itself - in 30% of cases the problem lies in the wiring, connectors, or even the ECU firmware.

If the dashboard lights up Check Engine, and the scanner showed P1320, do not rush to change the ignition coils. In this article, we will analyze all possible causes of the error, from trivial (poor contact) to complex (ECU malfunction), and also provide step-by-step instructions for diagnosis and repair. We will pay special attention to models Nissan Qashqai J10/J11 And X-Trail T31/T32where this problem occurs most often.

What does error P1320 mean on Nissan?

Code P1320 stands for "Ignition Signal Primary" - the problem is in the primary ignition circuit. In the system Nissan this code indicates that ECU (electronic control unit) does not receive the expected signal from one or more ignition coils. This can happen for several reasons:

• 🔧 Ignition coil malfunction (break, short circuit, insulation breakdown)
• 🔌 Wiring problems (break, oxidation of contacts, bad ground)
• 🖥️ Computer malfunction (incorrect firmware, damaged microcircuits)
• ⚡ Eating problems (low voltage in the on-board network, faulty generator)

It is important to understand that P1320 - this is not a death sentence for the coil. For example, on Nissan Qashqai J11 with engine HR16DE this error often appears due to oxidation of the contacts in the coil connector, rather than its internal failure. At the same time, on X-Trail T32 with motor MR20DD the same error may indicate problems with the ECU firmware after chip tuning.

Symptoms of error P1320: how does it manifest itself?

Error P1320 rarely appears “on its own” - it is usually accompanied by noticeable changes in engine operation. Here are the main signs that should alert you:

• 🚗 Engine tripping (especially when cold or when you press the gas sharply)
• ⚡ Power Loss (the car does not pull, accelerates poorly)
• 🔥 Misfires (the engine is “tuning up”, popping sounds are heard in the exhaust system)
• 💡 Check Engine (steady light or flashing when under load)
• 🛢️ Increased fuel consumption (10-20% higher than usual)

On Nissan Juke with engine HR15DE error P1320 often manifests itself as “dips” when accelerating at speeds of 2000-3000 rpm. On Qashqai J10 with motor MR20DE There may be a complete failure of one of the cylinders, which leads to severe vibration at idle. If the problem is ignored, over time it can lead to damage to the catalyst due to incomplete combustion of fuel.

⚠️ Attention: If the error P1320 accompanied by flashing Check Engine and strong shaking, turn off the engine immediately. Prolonged operation in this mode can lead to catalyst overheating and its melting (replacement cost - from 50,000 ₽).

Causes of error P1320: from simple to complex

To effectively eliminate P1320, you need to understand all the possible reasons for its appearance. We divided them into three categories according to the complexity of diagnosis and repair:

Category	Possible reason	How to check
Simple	Oxidation of coil contacts or ECU connector	Visual inspection, cleaning contacts
Average	Malfunction of the ignition coil or high-voltage wires	Check with a multimeter, replace with a known good one
Complex	Problems with the ECU (firmware, chip damage)	Scanner diagnostics, flashing, unit repair
Rare	Malfunction of the crankshaft position sensor (CPS)	Checking with an oscilloscope, replacing the sensor

In practice 80% of cases errors P1320 connected to the ignition coils or their wiring. However, on cars with mileage of more than 150,000 km, problems with ECU, especially if chip tuning was previously carried out. For example, on Nissan X-Trail T31 after flashing under Euro 5 False ignition errors often occur due to incorrect calibrations.

Why does P1320 often appear after an engine wash?

After washing the engine, water can get into the connectors of the ignition coils or ECU, causing short circuits. Models are especially vulnerable Nissan with overhead coils (for example, Qashqai J11). If the error appears after washing, first dry the connectors with a hairdryer and treat them WD-40 or special lubricant for contacts.

Diagnosing error P1320: step-by-step instructions

To pinpoint the cause P1320, follow this algorithm. Let's start with the simplest checks and gradually move on to more complex ones.

Check the error codes with a scanner (are there any associated errors, for example, P0300-P0304)

Inspect the ignition coils and their connectors for oxidation or damage.

Check the engine ground (especially in contact with the body)

Measure the resistance of the coils with a multimeter

Check the power at the coil connector (should be 12V when the ignition is on)

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If you don't have a diagnostic scanner, you can use a simple ELM327 adapter and application Torque Pro (Android) or OBD Fusion (iOS). When connecting, pay attention to the following errors:

• P0300-P0304 - cylinder misfires (indicates a problematic cylinder)
• P0351-P0354 — malfunction of the ignition coil circuit (specific cylinder number)
• P0335 - crankshaft position sensor malfunction (can cause P1320)

To check the ignition coils for Nissan use a multimeter:

1. Remove the coil from the engine.
2. Measure the resistance between the terminals 1 and 3 (primary winding) - should be 0.5-1.0 Ohm.
3. Measure the resistance between the terminals 2 and 3 (secondary winding) - should be 5-10 kOhm.
4. If the resistance is outside these limits, the coil is faulty.

⚠️ Attention: On some models Nissan (For example, Juke with engine HR15DE) ignition coils are integrated with spark plugs. When replacing them, be sure to use dielectric grease on the candle threads to avoid insulation breakdown.

How to fix error P1320: from repair to replacement

Remedy P1320 depends on the cause found. Let's consider the most effective solutions for each case.

1. Oxidation of contacts or poor ground

This is the most common cause of error, especially on cars older than 5 years. What to do:

• Disconnect the ignition coil connectors and clean the contacts alcohol solution or a special cleaner.
• Check the engine ground - the contact on the body near the battery often oxidizes.
• Apply to contacts conductive lubricant (For example, Liqui Moly Kupfer-Spray).

2. Malfunction of the ignition coil

If the coil does not pass the multimeter test, it needs to be replaced. For Nissan Qashqai J11 And X-Trail T32 fit original coils:

• 22448-4M015 - for engines HR16DE And MR20DD
• 22448-5M500 - for engines QR25DE

When replacing coils, be sure to check gap between coil and spark plug - it should be no more than 1 mm. If the gap is larger, it may lead to breakdown and reappearance. P1320.

3. Problems with the ECU or firmware

If the coils and wiring are ok but the error remains, the problem may be ECU. This often happens after unsuccessful chip tuning or firmware update. Solutions:

• Reset ECU adaptations via diagnostic scanner (e.g. Launch X431).
• Reflash the ECU to the stock version (it is recommended to contact specialists).
• Check the power supply to the ECU - the voltage at the contacts should be stable 12V.

Related errors: what to do if there is more than one P1320?

Error P1320 rarely appears alone. It is often accompanied by other codes that help more accurately identify the problem. Let's look at the most common combinations:

Related error	Possible reason	Recommendations
P0301-P0304	Misfire in a specific cylinder	Check the coil, spark plug, compression in the cylinder
P0351-P0354	Ignition coil circuit malfunction	Check wiring and coil connector
P0335	Crankshaft position sensor malfunction	Check the DPKV with an oscilloscope, replace if necessary
P0171/P0174	Lean fuel mixture	Check oxygen sensors, intake manifold leaks

For example, if together with P1320 appears P0302 (missing in the second cylinder), first check the coil and spark plug of the second cylinder. If the error is accompanied P0335, the problem is most likely in crankshaft position sensor or its wiring. On Nissan Almera N16 And Primera P12 a faulty DPKV often causes a chain of errors, including P1320.

Prevention of error P1320: how to avoid recurrence?

To make a mistake P1320 did not return, follow these recommendations:

• 🔧 Regularly (every 30,000 km) check the condition of the ignition coils and their connectors.
• 🛢️ Use high-quality fuel (octane number not lower than recommended).
• ⚡ Monitor the condition of the battery - low voltage can cause malfunctions of the ECU.
• 💻 Avoid “handicraft” chip tuning - incorrect firmware often causes P1320.
• 🚿 After washing the engine, be sure to dry the connectors of the coils and ECU.

On cars with mileage of more than 100,000 km, it is recommended to change them every 60,000 km. spark plugs to new ones, even if the old ones look normal in appearance. For example, on Nissan Qashqai J10 with engine MR20DE worn spark plugs can cause increased load on the coils, which over time leads to their failure and the appearance of P1320.

Also note intake manifold sealing. Air leaks through cracks or leaking connections can lead to a lean fuel mixture and, as a result, misfire. This is especially true for turbocharged models such as Nissan Juke 1.6 DIG-T.

Frequently asked questions (FAQ)

Is it possible to drive with error code P1320?

Short term - yes, but not recommended. Driving for a long time with this error can lead to:

• Damage to the catalyst (replacement cost - from 50,000 ₽).
• Increased engine wear due to uneven operation of the cylinders.
• Increased fuel consumption by 15-20%.

If the error appears for the first time, you can drive to a service station, but it is better not to load the engine (do not accelerate above 3000 rpm).

How much does it cost to repair a P1320 code?

The cost depends on the reason:

• Cleaning contacts — 500-1000 ₽ (you can do it yourself).
• Replacing the ignition coil — 2000-5000 ₽ for one reel (original) + 1000-2000 ₽ for work.
• ECU diagnostics — 1500-3000 ₽.
• Flashing the ECU — 3000-8000 ₽.

On Nissan Qashqai And X-Trail Often it is necessary to replace all the coils at once (4 pieces), which costs 15,000-25,000 rubles including labor.

Could P1320 be caused by bad fuel?

Yes, but indirectly. Bad fuel can cause:

• Contaminated spark plugs (leads to misfires and overloading of the coils).
• Detonation (shock loads damage the insulation of the coils).
• Formation of carbon deposits on the valves (worsens compression, which causes misfires).

If the error appears after refueling, try draining the bad fuel and adding quality fuel (for example, Gazpromneft G-Drive 98), and also replace the spark plugs.

How to reset error P1320 after repair?

There are three ways:

1. Automatic reset: Stop the engine, disconnect the battery terminal for 10 minutes, then connect it back. The error will clear, but may appear again if the problem is not resolved.
2. Scanner: Connect a diagnostic tool (eg Launch CReader) and select the "Erase errors" function.
3. On your own (for some models): On Nissan Almera G15 And Sentra You can reset errors by pressing the gas pedal all the way and holding it for 10 seconds with the ignition on (engine off).

If the error returns after resetting, the problem is not completely resolved.

Which ignition coils are best to install on a Nissan with error P1320?

Recommendations for selection:

• Original: Best option, but expensive (e.g. 22448-4M015 for Qashqai J11 - about 4000 ₽ per piece).
• Analogues:
  • NGK (article U5008) - reliable, price ~2500 ₽.
  • Denso (article 550-0105) - good quality, price ~3000 ₽.
  • Bosch (article 0 221 504 478) - a budget option (~2000 ₽), but the resource is less.

On Nissan Juke And Note with engines HR12DE/HR15DE original coils often last longer than analogues. If your budget is limited, choose NGK or Denso.