Error P1320 on Nissan: decoding, causes and how to fix

Error code P1320 - one of the most common problems in car ignition systems Nissan, especially on models with engines HR16DE, MR20DE And QR25DE. This code indicates a malfunction in the control circuit ignition coils, but its appearance may be due to a number of reasons - from banal oxidation of contacts to serious problems with the ECU. Owners Qashqai, X-Trail And Juke encountered most often, but the error also occurs on other models of the brand.

The main difficulty is that P1320 often accompanied by additional codes - for example, P0300 (misfire) or P0301-P0304 (misfires in specific cylinders). This complicates diagnosis, since symptoms may be disguised as other malfunctions: engine tripping, loss of power, or even complete failure to start. In this article we will look at unique features of error P1320 on Nissanthat are not described in standard manuals, and we will give specific recommendations for elimination.

What does error P1320 mean on Nissan?

Code P1320 stands for "Ignition Signal Primary — No Signal" (there is no signal in the primary ignition circuit). In the system Nissan this code is generated when Engine ECU does not receive the expected signal from one or more ignition coils. It is important to understand that we are not talking about the secondary circuit (where the spark is formed), but about primary - the one that controls the coil itself.

In practice this means that:

• 🔌 The ECU sends a command to the coil, but does not receive confirmation of its execution.
• 🔥 The coil may be working properly, but the signal does not reach it due to a break or short circuit.
• 📶 The problem may lie in the control unit (ECU) itself if it incorrectly interprets the signals.

On Nissan Qashqai (J10/J11) and X-Trail (T31/T32) error P1320 often appears along with P0325 (knock sensor circuit malfunction). This is due to the fact that the ECU of these models uses data from the knock sensor to adjust the ignition timing. If there is no signal from the sensor, the unit may not control the coils correctly, causing P1320.

The main causes of error P1320

The reasons can be divided into three categories: mechanical, electric And software. Mechanical problems are less common but easier to diagnose. Electrical problems require careful checking of the wiring, while software problems are often related to the ECU firmware.

Let's look at the most likely sources:

Fault type	Specific reason	Frequency of occurrence
Electric	Oxidation or broken ignition coil wiring	⭐⭐⭐⭐
Electric	Short circuit in wiring harness	⭐⭐⭐
Mechanical	Cracks in the ignition coil housing	⭐⭐
Software	ECU firmware failure (especially after chip tuning)	⭐⭐⭐
Electric	ECU connector malfunction (oxidation, poor contact)	⭐⭐⭐⭐

Particular attention should be paid wiring. On Nissan Juke (F15) and Note (E12) The ignition coil wiring harness runs close to the exhaust manifold, causing overheating and melting of the insulation. If you notice that the error P1320 appears after the engine warms up, first check the condition of the wiring in this place.

⚠️ Attention: On engines MR20DD (installed on Qashqai J11 And X-Trail T32) error P1320 may be false due to incorrect operation of the camshaft position sensor. Before replacing the coils, check the signal from this sensor with a diagnostic scanner.

P1320 Symptoms: How to Recognize the Problem

Error P1320 rarely appears on its own - it is usually accompanied by noticeable changes in engine performance. Here are the key signs to look out for:

• 🚗 Engine tripping - especially at idle or during acceleration.
• ⚡ Misfires, which can be recorded as additional errors (P0300-P0304).
• 🔋 Power drop — the car accelerates worse, especially at high speeds.
• 🔥 Check Engine light on - may flash or remain on continuously.
• 🛑 Startup failure - in severe cases, the engine may not start at all.

On Nissan Almera (G15) and Sentra (B17) error P1320 often manifests itself as "twitching" when driving at a speed of 60–80 km/h. This is due to the fact that the ECU of these models tries to compensate for misfires by changing the timing. If you notice such a symptom, do not delay diagnosis - long-term driving with this problem can lead to catalyst overheating and its failure.

Another characteristic sign is unstable speed at idle speed. The engine may spontaneously increase speed to 1500-2000 rpm, and then drop it again. This is due to the fact that the ECU is trying to “find” the operating mode, compensating for the lack of signal from the coils.

Diagnosing error P1320: step-by-step instructions

To pinpoint the cause P1320, a comprehensive diagnosis will be required. Start with a visual inspection, then move on to checking the electrical circuits and only lastly to diagnosing the ECU.

Here is the algorithm of actions:

1. Count all errors scanner (for example, Launch X431 or ELM327). Pay attention to the accompanying codes - they will help narrow your search.
2. Check ignition coils:
   • 🔍 Inspect for cracks, melting or traces of breakdown.
   • 📊 Check the resistance of the primary and secondary windings with a multimeter (normal values depend on the coil model).
3. Ring the wiring:
   • 🔌 Check the integrity of the wires from the ECU to the coils (contacts 1, 2, 3 on the coil connector).
   • 🔋 Make sure there is no short circuit to ground.
4. Check ECU:
   • 🖥️ Inspect the connector for oxidation or damaged contacts.
   • 🔄 Reset errors and see if they appear again.

On Nissan Qashqai J11 with engine MR20DD there is one peculiarity: the ignition coils are controlled here directly to the ECU, without intermediate relays. This means that if there is a short circuit in the coil circuit, the transistor in the control unit may burn out. If during testing you find that there is no voltage at the coil connector 12V on contact 1, there is a high probability that the problem is in the ECU.

If after all checks the cause is not found, you should pay attention to ECU firmware. On some Nissan (especially after 2015 release) error P1320 may appear due to bugs in the software. In this case, flashing the unit to the current software version will help.

How to fix error P1320: from simple to complex

Repair methods depend on the identified cause. Let's start with the simplest and cheapest solutions, gradually moving on to more complex ones.

1. Cleaning contacts and checking wiring

If the problem is oxidized contacts or damaged insulation, you can fix it yourself:

• 🧹 Clean the coil contacts and ECU connector with a special cleaner (for example, Liqui Moly Kontakt-Spray).
• 🔧 Replace damaged wires or restore insulation using heat shrink tubing.
• 🔌 Check the reliability of the "mass" connections near the coils (on Nissan X-Trail T31 the mass often comes off at the intake manifold mount).

2. Replacing ignition coils

If the coil is faulty (cracks, breakdown, incorrect resistance), it must be replaced. On Nissan coils are often installed Hitachi or Denso. When choosing a spare part, pay attention to:

• 🔢 Article number (for example, 22448-4M015 for Qashqai J10).
• 🔧 Compatible with your engine model.
• 📦 Availability of a guarantee (low-quality coils can fail after 10–20 thousand km).

⚠️ Attention: On engines HR16DE (installed on Nissan Juke And Note) ignition coils often fail due to overheating. If you are replacing coils, install additional insulation between them and the exhaust manifold.

3. Repair or replacement of the computer

If the problem is in the control unit, there are two options:

• 🔧 ECU repair — replacing burnt transistors or resoldering contacts. Cost: from 5,000 to 15,000 rubles.
• 🖥️ Replacing the ECU - if repair is impossible. It is important to select a unit with the same firmware or reflash a new one for your car.

On Nissan Almera G15 And Sentra B17 The ECU often fails due to moisture getting into the connector. If you find signs of corrosion, clean the contacts and apply a protective lubricant (for example, CRC 5-56).

4. Flashing the ECU

If the error P1320 appeared after chip tuning or firmware update, return the stock software or install the latest version. To do this you will need:

• 💻 Special equipment (for example, KTAG or Kess V2).
• 📀 Firmware file for your ECU model.
• 🔧 Experience with diagnostic software (independent firmware without skills can lead to complete failure of the unit).

Specifics of error P1320 on different Nissan models

Although it's a mistake P1320 has common causes on different models Nissan it manifests itself in different ways. Let's look at the features for the most popular cars.

Nissan Qashqai (J10, J11)

On Qashqai with engine MR20DE The error is often related to:

• 🔌 Poor contact in the ECU connector (located under the hood, next to the battery).
• 🔥 Overheating of the coils of the 2nd and 3rd cylinders (due to their close location to the manifold).

Solution: replacing the coils with reinforced ones (for example, Denso 550-0103) and installation of a heat-reflecting screen.

Nissan X-Trail (T31, T32)

On X-Trail with engine QR25DE P1320 often accompanied by an error P0325 (knock sensor). The reason is a common wiring harness that runs under the intake manifold and frays over time.

Solution: lay the harness in the corrugation and secure it away from sharp edges.

Nissan Juke (F15)

On Juke with engine HR16DE The error often appears after washing the engine or in damp weather. The reason for this is poor waterproofing of the coil connectors.

Solution: treat the connectors with dielectric grease (for example, Molykote 44).

Nissan Note (E12)

On Note with engine HR16DE P1320 may be caused by a malfunction of the ignition relay (located in the mounting block under the steering wheel). Check its functionality by swapping places with a similar relay (for example, a fan relay).

What should I do if error P1320 appears after replacing the coils?

If the error remains after replacing the coils, check:

1. Correct connection of the connectors (on some Nissans, the coils of the 1st and 4th cylinders have different pinouts).

2. Integrity of the wiring from the ECU to the coils (especially if you had to bend the harness during replacement).

3. ECU firmware version - an update may be required.

Prevention of error P1320: how to avoid recurrence

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

• 🔧 Check the condition of the ignition coils regularly - especially if your car is operated in conditions of high humidity or frequent temperature changes.
• 🔌 Clean the ECU and coil contacts at least once a year. Use special cleaners, not WD-40 (it leaves a film that conducts electricity over time).
• 🚗 Avoid long driving with misfires - this leads to overheating of the catalyst and additional repair costs.
• 🔥 Monitor the condition of high-voltage wires (if your model has them). A wire breakdown can simulate a coil failure.
• 💻 Update the ECU firmware as new versions are released. This is especially true for cars after 2015.

On Nissan Qashqai J11 And X-Trail T32 with engines MR20DD it is recommended to install ignition coils with improved thermal insulation (For example, NGK U5069). This will extend their service life and reduce the risk of reoccurrence. P1320.

If your car is often used in high humidity conditions (for example, in coastal regions), treat all connectors in the engine compartment dielectric grease. This will prevent contact oxidation and short circuits.

Frequently asked questions about error P1320

Is it possible to drive with error code P1320?

Short driving is possible, but not recommended. Long-term operation with this error leads to:

• 🔥 Overheating of the catalyst (due to incomplete combustion of fuel).
• 🚗 Accelerated engine wear (misfires increase the load on the piston group).
• 💰 Additional repair costs (for example, replacing a catalyst will cost 30,000–80,000 rubles).

If the error appears for the first time, you can go to a service station, but it is better to call a tow truck.

How much does it cost to repair error code P1320?

The cost depends on the reason:

Type of repair	Cost (RUB)
Cleaning contacts	500–1 500
Replacing one ignition coil	2,000–6,000 (spare part) + 1,000–2,000 (labor)
Wiring repair	1 500–4 000
Flashing the ECU	3 000–10 000
Replacing the ECU	15,000–40,000 (unit) + 3,000–5,000 (firmware and installation)

Can P1320 appear after washing the engine?

Yes, this is one of the most common reasons. Water getting on the connectors of the coils or ECU causes short circuits or corrosion of the contacts. If the error appears after washing:

1. Dry the engine compartment (you can use a compressor).
2. Clean the contacts with alcohol or a special cleaner.
3. Apply dielectric grease to the connectors.

If the error persists, check the coils for breakdown.

Which ignition coils are best for Nissan?

Recommended options:

• 🔝 Original Nissan - the most reliable, but expensive (the article number depends on the model).
• 🥈 Denso - a high-quality analogue, often installed on a conveyor (for example, 550-0103 for Qashqai).
• 🥉 NGK — good price/quality ratio (for example, U5069 for Juke).
• ⚠️ Cheap analogues (for example, Febi or Blue Print) - may fail after 10–20 thousand km.

On Nissan X-Trail T32 And Qashqai J11 with engine MR20DD It is better to install coils with a metal screen - they heat up less.

Could P1320 be caused by bad gasoline?

No, directly P1320 not related to fuel quality. However, bad gasoline can cause:

• 🔥 Detonation, which leads to overheating of the coils.
• 🚗 Dirty spark plugs, which makes misfires worse.

If the error appears after refueling, first check the spark plugs and coils, and then the fuel system.