Error code P1320 (often displayed by a diagnostic scanner as 1320) is one of the most common problems in the engine range Nissan Sunny, especially those equipped with ignition systems with individual coils. This malfunction indicates a malfunction in the ignition system of a specific cylinder, which leads to unstable engine operation, misfire and loss of power. Car owners often encounter this code during sudden acceleration or when the engine is idling, when the control system detects anomalies in spark formation.
Ignoring the signal errors 1320 can lead to serious consequences for the catalytic converter and the engine itself. Unburnt fuel enters the exhaust system, causing overheating and destruction of the ceramic honeycomb of the catalyst, the replacement of which is much more expensive than repairing the ignition system. Understanding the nature of this malfunction Nissan Sunny will allow you to save time and money by correctly diagnosing the source of the problem.
The essence of the malfunction and code P1320
Error P1320 (or 1320) in terminology Nissan stands for “Open or short circuit in the ignition coil circuit” (Ignition Coil Primary Circuit Malfunction). The engine electronic control unit (ECU) monitors the voltage and current in the primary coil circuit. If the parameters are outside the acceptable limits, the system records a failure and activates the “Check Engine” indicator. It is important to understand that this code does not always mean a complete failure of the coil itself.
By car Nissan Sunny With CG or SR series motors, the control system is very sensitive to the quality of the contacts and the condition of the wiring. The problem may be hidden in oxidation of the connector, damage to the wire insulation, or even a failure of the ECU software. However, most often the reason lies in the physical wear and tear of the ignition system components, which are exposed to high temperatures and vibrations.
When this code appears, you may notice the following symptoms:
- 🚗 Unstable idle speed, accompanied by body vibration
- 🔥 Loss of power when pressing the accelerator pedal
- 💨 Increased fuel consumption and the appearance of black smoke from the exhaust pipe
The main reasons for the failure
The most likely cause of the error is 1320 on Nissan Sunny is the failure of the ignition coil itself. Over time, the insulating materials inside the coil lose their properties, resulting in current leakage or turn-to-turn short circuits. This is especially true for high-mileage vehicles, where parts are subject to prolonged thermal stress.
The second most common cause is a malfunction of high-voltage wires (if they are provided for in the design) or spark plugs. If the spark plug has a large gap or is covered with carbon, the coil has to produce a higher voltage, which can overload the primary circuit and trigger the ECU protection. It is also worth paying attention to the condition of the coil connector.
Less obvious but possible reasons include:
- ⚡ Oxidation of contacts in the ignition coil connector due to moisture or oil
- 🔧 Mechanical damage to the wiring harness going to the ECU or coil
- 🧠 Malfunction of the ignition control module (if it is installed separately)
In rare cases, the problem may be related to the engine control unit itself, but before drawing such conclusions, it is necessary to exclude all external factors. Diagnostics should be carried out sequentially, starting with the simplest and cheapest tests. You should not immediately change expensive components without making sure that they are faulty.
Ignition system diagnostics
To accurately localize the problem, you will need a diagnostic scanner and a multimeter. First you need to read the error code and see which cylinder the system is pointing to. If the code P1320 appears cyclically on the same cylinder, the problem is localized. If the error “floats” and appears on different cylinders, perhaps the problem is in the common wiring harness or control unit.
The first inspection step is a visual inspection. Remove the plastic engine cover and carefully inspect the ignition coils and their connectors. Look for signs of scorching, cracks in the coil body, or signs of spark failure. Often you can see black traces of a spark on the coil body, which is a sure sign of an insulation breakdown.
Checking the resistance of the ignition coil is carried out with a multimeter in ohmmeter mode. Disconnect the connector from the coil and measure the resistance between the terminals of the primary and secondary windings. Compare the values obtained with the factory specifications for your model Nissan Sunny. A deviation of more than 10-15% from the norm indicates the need to replace the part.
It is also important to check for voltage at the coil connector with the ignition on. If there is no power, the problem lies in the ignition system wiring or fuse. Check the integrity of the fuse in the mounting block responsible for the ignition circuit.
Steps to replace faulty components
If the diagnostics confirm that the coil is faulty, it must be replaced. The process is not difficult and can be done with your own hands in a garage. You will need a set of wrenches, a screwdriver, and a new ignition coil that is compatible with your engine. It is recommended to use original spare parts Nissan or high-quality analogues from trusted brands.
Before starting work, be sure to disconnect the negative terminal of the battery to eliminate the risk of short circuit or electric shock. Remove the decorative engine cover by unscrewing the mounting bolts. Then disconnect the electrical connector from the faulty coil by pressing the latch.
Remove the mounting bolts holding the coil to the cylinder head. Carefully remove the coil, being careful not to damage the spark plug if it is not removed. Install the new coil, being careful not to damage the rubber seals. Screw in the mounting bolts and connect the electrical connector until it clicks.
After installing a new component, it is necessary to reset the error in the ECU memory. This can be done using a diagnostic scanner or by disconnecting the battery for 10-15 minutes. Start the engine and check if the error goes away 1320. Make sure the engine is running smoothly and there are no misfires.
☑️ Check before replacement
Repair nuances and common mistakes
When repairing the ignition system on Nissan Sunny mistakes are often made that lead to the code reappearing 1320. One of the most common mistakes is replacing only the coil without checking the condition of the spark plugs. If the spark plug is worn or has an incorrect gap, the new coil can quickly fail under increased load.
Another common mistake is ignoring the condition of the wiring harness. Even if the coil is working properly, a damaged wire with damaged insulation can cause false alarms of the protection system. Therefore, when error 1320 appears, it is necessary to carefully check the entire power supply and coil control circuit.
It is also important to consider that on some models Nissan Ignition coils may have design features that require the use of special adapters or gaskets. Installing an unsuitable part can lead to poor thermal conditions and rapid failure.
The following table will help you compare the characteristics of different types of coils and choose a suitable replacement:
| Coil type | Primary winding resistance (Ohm) | Secondary winding resistance (kOhm) | Compatibility |
|---|---|---|---|
| Original Nissan | 0.5 - 0.8 | 10 - 15 | All Sunny models with CG/SR engine |
| Denso (analogue) | 0.6 - 0.9 | 11 - 16 | Full compatibility |
| Budget analogues | 0.4 - 1.0 | 9 - 18 | Risk of rapid failure |
| Reinforced coils | 0.3 - 0.6 | 8 - 12 | For tuning and high loads |
- Once a year
- Once every 2 years
- Only in case of breakdown
- I don't know when was the last time I changed it
⚠️ Warning: Do not try to use a coil from another car model without first checking compatibility. Different resistance characteristics can lead to overheating of the ECU or unstable engine operation.
Prevention and Maintenance
To prevent the error from occurring 1320 In the future, it is necessary to regularly service the ignition system. Replace spark plugs in accordance with the manufacturer's instructions, usually every 30-45 thousand kilometers. Using high-quality spark plugs with the correct gap reduces the load on the coils and extends their service life.
It is also recommended to periodically inspect the coil connectors for oxidation and contamination. If you notice traces of moisture or oil, clean the contacts and treat them with a special protective spray. This will help avoid corrosion and poor contact.
Monitor the condition of high-voltage wires (if your equipment includes them). Cracks in the insulation or a spark breakdown on the engine body can cause false alarms of the diagnostic system. When replacing wires, always use the kit designed specifically for your engine model.
To extend the life of the ignition coils, it is recommended to use fuel with a high octane number and high-quality composition to avoid engine detonation and overheating.
When to turn to professionals
Despite the fact that replacing the ignition coil is a relatively simple procedure, in some cases it is better to entrust the diagnosis to professionals. If after replacing the coil and spark plugs the error 1320 continues to appear, the problem may be deeper. This could indicate a faulty ECU, problems with the crankshaft or camshaft position sensors, or even mechanical problems with the engine.
Service center specialists have special equipment for oscillographic analysis of the operation of the ignition system. This allows you to see the real picture of sparking and identify hidden defects that are not visible during normal visual inspection or resistance measurement.
It is also worth turning to professionals if you are not confident in your skills or do not have the necessary tools. Incorrect installation of the coil can lead to damage to the threads in the cylinder head or a leak, which will result in dirt and moisture entering the combustion chamber.
What to do if error 1320 appears only when the engine is hot?
If the error appears only after warming up, this may indicate thermal deformation of the coil or poor contact in the connector. When heated, the metal expands and microcracks in the insulation can increase, causing breakdown. In this case, you need to check the coil for cracks and replace it if necessary.
Results of diagnostics and repair
Error 1320 on Nissan Sunny - this is a serious signal that requires immediate attention. Ignoring the problem can lead to costly repairs to the engine and exhaust system. Correct diagnosis and timely replacement of faulty components will help you avoid unnecessary costs and ensure reliable operation of your car.
Remember that the ignition system is the heart of the engine. Not only dynamics and efficiency, but also the durability of all related systems depend on its condition. Regular maintenance and the use of quality parts will ensure that you never encounter this problem again.
By following simple recommendations for diagnostics and prevention, you can independently solve most problems associated with error code 1320. The main thing is not to panic when the “Check Engine” indicator appears, but to act methodically and consistently, checking every element of the system.
⚠️ Attention: If error 1320 is accompanied by severe engine vibration and loss of power, do not continue driving for long distances. This can lead to complete failure of the catalyst and serious engine damage.
Regularly replacing spark plugs and checking connector contacts are the most effective ways to prevent error code 1320 on your Nissan Sunny.
Why does error 1320 only appear when the engine is hot?
This phenomenon is often associated with thermal expansion of the materials inside the ignition coil. When heated, microcracks in the insulation can increase, causing current leakage or breakdown. It is also possible that contact in the connector may fail due to metal expansion.
Is it possible to drive with error 1320?
Short-term movement is possible, but not recommended. Misfires lead to unburned fuel entering the catalyst, which causes it to overheat and destroy. It also increases fuel consumption and emissions.
Do I need to change all the coils at once if an error occurs on one?
No, if the error is specific to a specific cylinder, it is sufficient to replace only the faulty coil. However, if the car has a high mileage and all the coils are old, it is recommended to check their condition and, if necessary, replace the set to avoid repeated breakdowns.
Does fuel quality affect the occurrence of error 1320?
Yes, low-quality fuel with a high content of impurities can cause detonation and unstable combustion, which puts increased stress on the ignition system. This can accelerate wear on the coils and spark plugs, leading to errors.
How to reset error 1320 after repair?
The most reliable way is to use a diagnostic scanner to clear the error memory. You can also disconnect the battery for 10-15 minutes, but this may also reset other vehicle settings, such as the time and radio settings.