Error P1320 on Nissan: decoding, causes and repairs

Fault code P1320 - one of the most common problems in car ignition systems Nissan, especially on models with engines HR16DE, MR20DE And QR25DE. This error is associated with problems in the ignition coil control circuit, but its appearance can signal both minor failures and serious breakdowns that require intervention. Owners Qashqai, X-Trail And Juke They encounter it most often after replacing spark plugs, high-voltage wires, or when operating in high humidity conditions.

Unlike many other errors, P1320 does not always lead to noticeable problems in engine operation - sometimes it appears only during diagnostics with a scanner, and the car continues to drive “as if nothing had happened.” However, it cannot be ignored: prolonged ignoring can lead to breakdown of coil insulation, damage to the ECU or even cylinder failure. In this article we will take a closer look at what the code means P1320, how to correctly diagnose it and what steps to take to eliminate it - from the simplest contact check to replacing components.

What does error P1320 mean on Nissan?

Code P1320 in the diagnostic system Nissan stands for “Ignition coil control circuit malfunction” (English) Ignition Coil Primary/Secondary Circuit Malfunction). It indicates a problem in the primary or secondary circuit of one or more ignition coils. Depending on the car model and year of manufacture, the error may be accompanied by the following symptoms:

• 🔥 Misfires — the engine “troits”, especially when cold or at high speeds.
• ⚡ Power Loss — the car accelerates poorly, a “failure” is felt when you press the gas.
• 🚨 Check Engine — the malfunction lamp on the dashboard lights up.
• 🔊 Unstable idle — the speed fluctuates, the engine may stall.

It is important to understand that P1320 - this is general a code that does not indicate a specific coil or cylinder. For an accurate diagnosis, additional scanning will be required to identify which circuit is failing. For example, on Nissan Qashqai J10/J11 the error is often associated with the coils of the 1st and 4th cylinders due to their location closer to the exhaust manifold (overheating).

In some cases the code may appear false - for example, after resetting the battery terminal or when using a low-quality scanner. However, if the error returns after a reset, there is definitely a problem.

The main causes of error P1320

Causes P1320 can be divided into three categories: mechanical (wear of parts), electric (problems with wiring or contacts) and software (ECU malfunctions). Below is a list of the most likely causes, sorted by frequency of occurrence:

• 🔌 Poor contact or oxidation of connectors Ignition coil failure is the most common cause, especially in high humidity conditions.
• 💥 Insulation breakdown high-voltage wires or the coil itself (often visible visually as black dots or cracks).
• 🔋 Malfunction of the ignition coil itself - internal break or short circuit of the windings.
• 🔧 Incorrect installation of spark plugs - gap too large, wrong type of spark plugs or worn out spark plugs.
• 📶 Wiring problems — a break or short circuit in the harness going from the ECU to the coils.
• 🖥️ Computer malfunction - rare, but possible during flashing or power surges.

By car Nissan with the system Direct Ignition System (DIS) (For example, X-Trail T31/T32) error P1320 often occurs due to coil overheating. This is due to a design feature: the coils are located directly above the spark plugs, and during prolonged operation at high speeds, they overheat, which leads to microcracks in the insulation.

One more nuance - fuel quality. When using gasoline with an octane number lower than recommended (for example, 92 instead of 95), detonation may occur, which indirectly affects the operation of the ignition system and provokes P1320.

How to Diagnose Error P1320: Step-by-Step Instructions

Diagnostics P1320 requires a systematic approach. Start with a visual inspection, then move on to checking electrical circuits and only finally to replacing components. Below are step-by-step instructions that are suitable for most models Nissan (including Qashqai J11, X-Trail T32, Juke F15).

Step 1. Visual inspection

• Open the hood and locate the ignition coils (usually located on top of the engine, under the decorative cover).
• Check the integrity of high-voltage wires (if any) and coil connectors. Look for signs of melting, cracks or oxidation.
• Pay attention to the spark plugs: if they are wet or covered with carbon deposits, this may indicate a misfire.

Step 2: Checking Error Codes

• Connect a diagnostic scanner (for example, Launch X431 or ELM327) and read all saved errors. Often P1320 accompanied by codes P0300-P0306 (cylinder misfires).
• If there are errors for specific cylinders (for example, P0301 - misfires in cylinder 1), this will narrow down the search.

Step 3: Check Coil Resistance

• Remove the connector from the coil and measure the resistance of the primary and secondary windings with a multimeter. Normal values for most coils Nissan:
  • Primary winding: 0.5–1.0 Ohm.
  • Secondary winding: 6–15 kOhm (depending on the model).
• If the resistance is outside the normal range, the coil must be replaced.

Step 4: Check Power and Control Signals

• With the ignition on, check the voltage at the coil connector (contact +12V). It must be no less 11.5 V.
• Check the signal from the ECU at the control contact (usually the middle contact of the connector). When cranking the starter, a pulse signal should be observed (can be checked with an LED probe).

If after all checks the problem is not found, but the error remains, it may be faulty ECU or there are problems with the “mass” of the engine. In this case, it is recommended to contact specialists with professional equipment (for example, an oscilloscope).

Table: Normal ignition coil resistance values for popular Nissan models

Car model	Engine	Primary Winding (Ohm)	Secondary winding (kOhm)
Nissan Qashqai J10/J11	HR16DE, MR20DE	0.6–0.9	8–12
Nissan X-Trail T31/T32	QR25DE	0.7–1.0	10–14
Nissan Juke F15	HR16DE	0.5–0.8	7–11
Nissan Note E12	HR16DE	0.6–0.9	8–12

If your coil's resistance is outside the specified limits, it will need to be replaced. Also note that even if the resistance is normal, the coil may be faulty due to internal microcracks, which are not always detected by a multimeter.

How to fix error P1320: from simple to complex

Remedies P1320 depend on the identified cause. Start with the simplest and cheapest solutions, gradually moving to more complex ones. Below is an action algorithm that will help save time and money.

1. Cleaning and checking contacts

• Remove the connectors from the ignition coils and clean the contacts with a special liquid (for example, Contact Cleaner).
• Check the reliability of the connectors - they should fit tightly, without play.
• If there are traces of oxidation on the contacts (green or white coating), clean them with fine sandpaper.

2. Replacing spark plugs

• If the spark plugs have not been changed for more 30,000 km, replace them with new ones recommended by the manufacturer (for example, NGK IFR6A11 for HR16DE).
• Check the gap between the electrodes - it should be 0.8–1.1 mm (see the manual for exact values).

3. Checking and replacing high-voltage wires

• If your model has wires (rather than individual coils), check their resistance. It must be within 5–10 kOhm per meter of length.
• In case of visual damage (cracks, melting), the wires must be replaced.

4. Replacing the ignition coil

• If the coil does not pass the resistance test or shows signs of breakdown, replace it with a new one. It is recommended to change all coils at the same time if the vehicle mileage exceeds 100,000 km.
• For Nissan Qashqai And X-Trail original coils fit Nissan 22448-4M015 or analogues from Bosch, Denso.

5. Checking the ECU and wiring

• If after replacing the coils and spark plugs the error remains, check the control circuit from the computer to the coils for an open or short circuit.
• In rare cases, it may be necessary to reflash or replace the ECU (for example, if the output stages are damaged).

After eliminating the cause of the error be sure to reset it from the ECU memory. To do this, you can disconnect the battery terminal for 10 minutes or use a diagnostic scanner. If the code appears again, the problem is not completely resolved.

Common repair mistakes and how to avoid them

When trying to fix P1320 Many car owners make common mistakes that only aggravate the problem. Here are the most common ones and ways to avoid them:

• 🔧 Replacing only one coil. If one coil fails, the others are likely worn out too. Replacing just one may result in the error reappearing after a short time.
• 💡 Using non-original candles. Cheap spark plugs with the wrong heat rating or gap can cause misfires and reoccurrence. P1320.
• 🔌 Incorrect installation of connectors. When connecting the coils, it is important to make sure that the connectors are latched all the way. Poor contact is one of the main reasons for the error to return.
• 📉 Ignoring ground check. A bad engine ground can cause the ECU to malfunction and simulate coil failure.

Another common mistake is diagnostics by eye. For example, if the coil looks normal on the outside, this does not mean that it is working. Windings may have internal defects that are not visible without special equipment. Always perform a resistance test!

Also, don't throw an error P1320 without eliminating the cause. This may lead to damage to the catalyst due to prolonged misfires, and replacing it will cost several times more than timely repair of the ignition system.

What happens if you ignore P1320 for a long time?

Ignoring P1320 for a long time can lead to:

- Overheating and failure of the catalytic converter (replacement cost from RUB 30,000).

- Damage to pistons and valves due to detonation in the cylinders.

- Complete failure of the computer due to a short circuit in the control circuits.

- An increase in fuel consumption by 10–20% due to inefficient combustion of the mixture.

FAQ: Frequently asked questions about error P1320 on Nissan

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, overheating of the engine and increased fuel consumption. If the error is accompanied by misfires, it is better to immediately eliminate the cause.

How much does it cost to replace an ignition coil on a Nissan?

The cost of the original coil for popular models (Qashqai, X-Trail) is 3,000–5,000 rub. per piece. Analogs (for example, Bosch or Denso) can be found for 1,500–2,500 rub.. Replacement at a service station will cost 1,000–2,000 rub. for work (all the way).

Can P1320 be caused by bad gasoline?

Yes, but indirectly. If gasoline has a low octane rating, it can cause detonation, which in turn overloads the ignition coils. However, the error itself P1320 indicates an electrical problem, not a fuel problem. If after refueling with good gasoline the error disappeared, the problem was detonation.

How to reset error P1320 without a scanner?

You can reset the error by disconnecting the negative terminal of the battery for 10–15 minutes. However, this method will remove all saved errors, not just P1320. If the cause is not resolved, the code will appear again. Selective reset requires a diagnostic scanner.

What tools are needed to diagnose P1320?

Minimum set:

• Diagnostic scanner (eg ELM327 or Launch CReader).
• Multimeter for checking coil resistance.
• A set of screwdrivers and wrenches for removing coils.
• Spark plug wrench (if replacement of spark plugs is required).
• Contact lubricant (eg Liqui Moly Kontaktreiniger).

For in-depth diagnostics, you may need an oscilloscope.