Error 1320 on Nissan AD: decoding, diagnostics and repair

Error with code 1320 on Nissan AD - one of those problems that can unsettle even experienced car owners. It signals a malfunction in the engine management system, but its true cause often remains a mystery. Unlike common errors like P0300 (misfire), code 1320 does not have a universal solution - its interpretation depends on the model, year of manufacture and even the region where the car was built.

In this article we will not just list possible reasons, but will analyze unique nuances of error 1320 specifically for the AD platform, which was used in models such as Nissan Teana (J31/J32), Cefiro (A32/A33) And Maxima (A32). You will learn how to correctly diagnose a problem without an expensive scanner, which sensors to check first, and why standard “recipes” from the Internet can only make the situation worse.

We will pay special attention common mistakes during repairs - for example, why replacing spark plugs or ignition coils often does not give results, and what is actually hidden behind the “floating” symptoms: from loss of power to sudden transitions into emergency mode. The material is based on an analysis of service manuals Nissan, reports from diagnosticians and real cases of owners.

What does error 1320 mean on Nissan AD?

Code 1320 in the self-diagnosis system Nissan AD belongs to the category "Ignition control circuit malfunction". However, this general definition is often misleading. The point is that the platform AD uses a unique engine control architecture, where not only the ECU, but also an additional module is responsible for the ignition process - Ignition Control Module (ICM).

Unlike more modern systems (e.g. Nissan QR25DE), where ignition errors are coded as P03xx, our own numbering is used here. Code 1320 may indicate:

• 🔌 Open or short circuit in the circuit between the ECU and the ignition module (ICM).
• 🔥 Overheating or failure the ICM module itself (a common problem on Teana J31 with a mileage of 150 thousand km).
• 📡 Signal mismatch between the crankshaft position (CKP) sensor and the camshaft sensor (CMP).
• ⚡ Eating problems on contacts A14 And B13 ECU connector (often oxidize).

It is important to understand that 1320 is not a death sentence for the engine, but an indication of the need for comprehensive diagnostics. For example, on Nissan Cefiro A32 with engine VQ30DE this error in 60% of cases is associated with wear and tear of the wiring under the hood, and in Maxima A32 - with a malfunction of the ignition coils of a specific manufacturer (usually Hitachi).

Causes of error 1320: from simple to complex

In order not to waste time replacing working parts, we will analyze the reasons according to the degree of probability - from the most common to the rare. Let's start with the fact that in 80% of cases It is not the electronic modules that are to blame, but rather mechanical or electrical problems.

1. Problems with wiring and contacts

Platform AD known for weak points in wiring harnesses, especially in the areas:

• 🔌 Ignition module (ICM) connector — oxidation of contacts 1A And 2B (responsible for the signal from the ECU).
• 🔋 Ground wires on the cylinder head (often rotted or corroded).
• 📶 Crankshaft sensor harness — rubbing against the generator bracket (typical for Teana J31).

How to check? Take a multimeter and measure the resistance between the contacts 1A And 2B on the ICM connector. Normal value - 0.5–1.2 Ohm. If the resistance tends to infinity, there is a break; if it is close to zero, there is a short circuit.

2. Malfunction of the ignition module (ICM)

Module ICM on Nissan AD - weak link. Its resource rarely exceeds 200 thousand km, and signs of failure:

• ⚡ The engine “troubles” when cold, but levels out after warming up.
• 🔥 Error 1320 appears in humid weather (moisture penetrates through cracks in the housing).
• 📉 Power drop when accelerating above 3500 rpm.

Diagnosis: Swap the ignition coils between the cylinders. If the error “moves” to another cylinder, the coil is to blame. If it stays in place, the problem is in the ICM or wiring.

How to check ICM without a scanner?

Disconnect the module connector and measure the voltage at the contact +B (should be 12V when ignition is on). Then check the signal from the ECU on the contact IGT - must be pulsed (can be seen with a dial tester).

3. Crankshaft position (CKP) and camshaft position (CMP) sensors

On Nissan AD these sensors work in pairs, and if one gives an incorrect signal, the ECU records an error 1320 as "phase mismatch". Features:

• 🔍 CKP sensor (Crankshaft Position Sensor) more often fails due to metal shavings.
• 🔄 CMP sensor (Camshaft Position Sensor) is sensitive to camshaft play (check the timing chain tension!).

How to check? Remove the CKP sensor and inspect its end - if there are scratches or chips, replace the sensor and wash the oil pan. For CMP, check the resistance between the terminals: normal - 500–700 Ohm.

Diagnosing error 1320: step-by-step instructions

Before you rush to change parts, perform a comprehensive diagnostic. We have compiled a checklist that will help identify the problem with minimal cost.

Check error codes with a scanner (even a cheap ELM327 will show related codes)

Inspect ICM and ECU connectors for oxidation/damage

Measure the resistance of the ignition coils (standard: 0.5–1.5 Ohm)

Check the voltage at the CKP/CMP sensors (should be 5V when the ignition is on)

Test drive with recording of error conditions (cold/hot engine, load, etc.) -->

Step 1: Reading Error Codes

Use a scanner (eg Launch CReader or ELM327) for a complete list of errors. Please note the accompanying codes:

Error code	Meaning	Contact 1320
P0335	CKP sensor circuit malfunction	Direct - often the root cause
P0340	CMP sensor circuit malfunction	Direct - check timing timing
P0300	Multiple misfires	Indirect - may be a consequence of 1320
P1320	Ignition signal mismatch	Analogue 1320 in OBD-II standard

Step 2: Checking the power and ground circuits

Disconnect the negative terminal of the battery and check:

1. Ground wires on the block head (often rotted due to vibration).
2. fuse IGN (10A) in the block under the hood - it is responsible for powering the ICM.
3. Contact voltage +B ICM connector — there should be 12V when the ignition is on.

Step 3: Test the ignition coils and spark plugs

On Nissan AD ignition coils (Hitachi or Denso) often fail after 100 thousand km. Check:

• 🔧 Primary winding resistance (between contacts 1 And 2) - norm: 0.5–1.5 Ohm.
• ⚡ Secondary winding resistance (between 2 and high-voltage output) - norm: 8–12 kOhm.
• 🔥 Condition of the candles - if there is oil or carbon deposits on them, the problem may be in the valve cover O-rings.

⚠️ Attention: Do not check the coils for a spark by bringing the high-voltage wire close to ground! This may damage the ECU or ICM. Only use a multimeter.

How to resolve error 1320: from simple to complex

Depending on the diagnosis, repair methods vary from basic (cleaning contacts) to complex (replacing ICM). Let's look at them in order.

1. Cleaning contacts and masses

Start with the simplest:

• 🧹 Clean ICM and ECU connectors special spray (for example, CRC Contact Cleaner).
• 🔧 Pull up the ground wires on the cylinder head and body (use a 10 mm socket wrench).
• 🔌 Check CKP sensor harness — if it is frayed, replace it entirely (repair with electrical tape is unacceptable!).

After cleaning, reset the errors with the scanner and drive 20–30 km. If 1320 will not return - the problem was in the contacts.

2. Replacing CKP/CMP sensors

If the sensors produce incorrect signals, they need to be replaced. Features:

• 🔍 For Nissan AD Only original sensors are suitable (Nissan 23731-4M000 for CKP, 23731-3M000 for CMP) or analogues from Denso.
• 🛠️ When replacing the CKP, be sure to clean the seat from metal shavings (use a magnet).
• 📏 Check the gap between the sensor and the flywheel - it should be 0.5–1.2 mm.

⚠️ Attention: After replacing sensors, it may be necessary to reset the ECU adaptations. To do this, disconnect the battery for 10 minutes or use a scanner with the function ECU Reset.

3. Repair or replacement of the ICM module

If the problem is in the ignition module, you have two options:

1. Repair — re-soldering contacts or replacing transistors (requires skills in working with a soldering iron).
2. Replacement - original ICM for Nissan AD has an article number 22440-4M000 (price ~15–20 thousand rubles).

Before replacing the ICM, be sure to check:

• ⚡ Presence of 12V on the contact +B connector.
• 📡 Correctness of the signal from the ECU on the contact IGT (pulse, frequency depends on revolutions).

4. Checking and replacing ignition coils

Coils on Nissan AD often “die” in groups. If one fails, prepare to replace all six (or three, depending on the engine). Signs of malfunction:

• ⚡ Misfire on a specific cylinder (for example, error P0302 — misfires in the 2nd cylinder).
• 🔥 Cracks on the coil body or traces of melting.
• 📉 Power drop during sudden acceleration.

For replacement, use original coils Nissan 22448-4M000 or analogues from Denso (FK16HR11). After replacement, be sure to check the resistance (see the “Diagnostics” section).

Common repair mistakes and how to avoid them

Many owners Nissan AD are faced with the fact that after repair there is an error 1320 returns. Let's look at the most common mistakes and how to prevent them.

1. Replacement of only one sensor

If you only replaced CKP, and CMP remains old (or vice versa), the ECU may continue to record a signal mismatch. Always replace sensors in pairs, especially if the car’s mileage exceeds 150 thousand km.

2. Ignoring wiring condition

Often after replacing the ICM or coils the error returns due to damaged wiring. For example, on Teana J31 The CKP sensor harness rubs against the generator bracket. Always inspect the wires for signs of fraying or oxidation..

3. Use of non-original parts

Saving on spare parts costs more. For example, non-original ignition coils from NoName-manufacturers often have resistance outside the permissible range, which leads to the recurrence of 1320. Buy parts only from trusted suppliers (For example, Denso, Hitachi, NGK).

4. Failure to follow the connection sequence

After replacing the ICM or ECU, you must:

1. Disconnect the battery for 10 minutes (to reset adaptations).
2. Connect the scanner and perform the procedure ECU Initialization (if available).
3. Start the engine and let it idle for 5–10 minutes (for the system to self-learn).

⚠️ Attention: If the engine does not start after replacing the ICM, check that the connectors are connected correctly. On Nissan AD The ICM and ECU connectors are keyed, but sometimes they can be connected “at odds”, which leads to a short circuit.

Prevention of error 1320: how to prevent recurrence

To make a mistake 1320 has not returned a month after repair, follow these recommendations:

1. Regular diagnostics

Every 30 thousand km:

• 🔍 Check the resistance of the ignition coils.
• 📡 Inspect ICM and sensor connectors for oxidation.
• 🔋 Measure the voltage at the contact +B ICM (must be 12V).

2. Moisture protection

The ICM module and sensor connectors are susceptible to moisture. Install:

• 🌧️ Protective covers to ICM connectors (heat shrink tubing can be used).
• 🚗 Additional insulation CKP sensor harness (for example, corrugated).

3. High-quality fuel and oil

Bad fuel or old oil will accelerate wear on sensors and coils. Follow the recommendations:

• ⛽ Refuel at proven gas stations (octane number not lower than 95).
• 🛢️ Change the oil every 7–8 thousand km (use 5W-30 or 5W-40 with permission Nissan).
• 🔥 Add an injector cleaner to the fuel (for example, Liqui Moly Injection Reiniger) every 10 thousand km.

4. Control of the ignition system

Candles and coils are consumables that directly affect the appearance 1320:

• 🔧 Change spark plugs every 30 thousand km (original - Nissan 22401-4M015 or NGK IFR6A11).
• ⚡ Check the gap between the electrodes of the spark plugs - this is the norm for Nissan AD: 1.0–1.1 mm.
• 📈 Monitor the condition of high-voltage wires (if your model has them).

FAQ: Frequently asked questions about error 1320 on Nissan AD

Is it possible to drive with error 1320?

Short term - yes, but not recommended. Error 1320 indicates problems in the ignition system, which can lead to:

• 🔥 Overheating of the catalyst (due to unburned fuel).
• ⚡ Damage to ignition coils (due to increased load).
• 📉 Loss of power and increased fuel consumption.

If the error appears rarely (for example, only during a cold start), you can go to a service center. If it is constantly on, it is better to call a tow truck.

Why does error 1320 only appear when it is cold?

This is a typical sign:

• 🔌 Bad contact in ICM or sensor connectors (when heated, the metal expands and contact is restored).
• 💧 Moisture in the ICM module (evaporates when heated).
• 🔋 Wear of ignition coils (when cold, the resistance of the windings is higher, which leads to skips).

Solution: Check the contacts, dry the ICM with a hairdryer (without overheating!), replace the coils.

Is it possible to reset error 1320 without a scanner?

Yes, but this is a temporary solution. Methods:

1. Disconnect the negative terminal of the battery for 10–15 minutes (all ECU adaptations will be reset).
2. On some models Nissan AD The “secret” method works: turn on the ignition, press the gas pedal all the way and hold for 10 seconds, then turn off the ignition.

However, without eliminating the cause, the error will return.

How much does it cost to repair error 1320 in the service?

The cost depends on the reason:

Type of repair	Cost (RUB)
Diagnostics (scanner + circuit check)	1 500–3 000
Replacing CKP/CMP sensors	3,000–6,000 (with work)
Replacing the ICM	15,000–25,000 (with work)
Replacing ignition coils (kit)	12 000–20 000

Tip: If diagnostics show a problem with the ICM, ask the service center about the possibility of repairing the module (sometimes cheaper than replacing).

What analogues of original spare parts can be used?

For Nissan AD The following analogues are suitable:

• 🔧 Ignition coils: Denso FK16HR11, Hitachi ICM004.
• 📡 CKP sensor: Denso 555-6050, Standard Motor Products PC348.
• 🔄 CMP sensor: Denso 555-6060, Beck/Arnley 180-0532.
• ⚡ ICM module: Hitachi ICM001 (only for VQ engines).

Important: Before purchasing, check compatibility using your vehicle's VIN code.