Error P1320 on Nissan: a complete analysis of the causes and solutions from an expert

Error code P1320 on cars Nissan - one of the most common problems associated with the ignition system. This code indicates a malfunction in the control circuit ignition coil or problems with the synchronization of signals from the crankshaft/camshaft sensors. Most often the error appears on models with engines QR25DE, MR20DE, VQ35DE, but can also occur on other brand motors.

Owners Nissan X-Trail, Qashqai, Teana And Pathfinder encounter this error after replacing spark plugs, high-voltage wires, or when using low-quality fuel. In some cases P1320 accompanied by misfires, jerks during acceleration, or even the engine going into emergency mode.Ignoring this error can lead to more serious engine problems, so it's critical to diagnose and fix it promptly.

In this article we will look at: what exactly does P1320 mean?, what symptoms accompany it?, how to correctly diagnose the problem (including checking sensors and wiring), step-by-step elimination methods - from simple (replacing spark plugs) to complex (repairing a wiring harness).

You will also find answers to frequently asked questions and exclusive tips from service station masters specializing in Nissan.

What does error P1320 mean on Nissan?

Code P1320 stands for "Ignition Signal Primary Circuit Malfunction" — malfunction in the primary ignition control circuit. In the system Nissan this code is activated when ECU detect a discrepancy between the expected and actual signals from the ignition coil control circuit. Simply put, the engine control unit does not “see” the correct signal from the ignition coil or receives it with a delay.

Feature of the error P1320 is that she can be like false (due to a temporary failure) or indicate a serious malfunction. For example:

• 🔧 Problems with the ignition coil (break, short circuit, wear).
• 📡 Malfunction of the crankshaft position (CKP) or camshaft position (CMP) sensor.
• ⚡ Wiring damage between the ECU and the coil.
• 🛢️ Bad fuel or clogged injectorsleading to misfires.

On some models Nissan (For example, X-Trail T31 or Qashqai J10) error P1320 may appear along with other codes such as P0300 (random misfire) or P0340 (camshaft sensor malfunction). This complicates diagnosis, as the causes may overlap.

⚠️ Attention: If the error P1320 appears after washing the engine or in damp weather, there is a high probability of moisture getting on the coils or connectors. In this case, it is enough to dry the engine compartment without replacing parts.

Symptoms of error P1320: how the problem manifests itself

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

• 🚗 Jerks during acceleration, especially at low speeds (1500–2500 rpm).
• 🔥 Misfires in one or more cylinders (may flash Check Engine).
• 🛑 Switching to emergency mode (speed limit to 3000–4000 rpm).
• 💨 Increased fuel consumption (by 10–20%) due to inefficient combustion of the mixture.
• 🔊 Rough idle or vibrations on the steering wheel.

On some models (for example, Nissan Almera N16 or Primera P12) the error may only appear during a cold start and disappear after warming up. This is often associated with wear of ignition coils or poor contact in connectors.

Symptom	Probable Cause	Urgency of elimination
Jerks during acceleration	Faulty coil or spark plugs	Average
Check Engine Flashing	Misfires, risk of catalytic converter damage	High
Engine stalls at idle	Crankshaft sensor or wiring problems	Critical
Increased fuel consumption	Inefficient combustion due to misfires	Low

If you notice Check Engine light flashing (and not constant burning), this is a signal about active misfireswhich may damage the catalytic converter. In this case, it is better to stop using the car until the problem is resolved.

Causes of error P1320: complete list

To effectively eliminate P1320, you need to understand its root cause. Below we list all possible causes, from the most likely to the rare.

1. Malfunction of the ignition coil

Ignition coils are the most vulnerable point in the system. Over time, they wear out, lose insulation, or overheat. On Nissan with engines QR25DE And MR20DE coils often fail after 100–150 thousand kilometers. Signs of malfunction:

• 🔌 Cracks on the reel body.
• 💥 Darkening or melting of contacts.
• 📉 Resistance drops below normal (checked with a multimeter).

2. Problems with wiring or connectors

Oxidation, breaks or short circuit in the wiring harness between ECU and coils - the second most common reason P1320. The connectors on the coils and the crankshaft sensor are especially vulnerable. Check:

• 🔍 Integrity of wire insulation.
• 🔌 Cleanliness of contacts in connectors (oxidation or corrosion).
• 📏 Correct connection (sometimes after repair the wires are confused in places).

3. Malfunction of CKP/CMP sensors

Crankshaft position sensor (CKP) and camshaft position sensor (CMP) send signals to ECU for ignition synchronization. If one of them does not work correctly, the control unit may incorrectly calculate the moment of sparking, which leads to P1320.

How to check sensors:

1. Remove the sensor and inspect for mechanical damage.
2. Check the resistance with a multimeter (for CKP norm - 200–1000 Ohm, for CMP - 500–1500 Ohm).
3. Check the circuit for an open or short circuit.

4. Other possible reasons

• ⚡ Bad fuel or clogged injectors (lead to misfires).
• 🔥 Spark plug wear (especially if they have not changed for more than 60 thousand km).
• 🛠️ Incorrect spark plug gap (should be 0.8–1.1mm for most engines Nissan).
• 💻 ECU firmware failure (rarely, but possible after unsuccessful chip tuning).

⚠️ Attention: If the error P1320 appeared after replacing coils or spark plugs, check correct connection of high-voltage wires. On some models Nissan (For example, VQ35DE) the wires have a fixed order, and mixing them up leads to ignition failure.

How to check the ignition coil without diagnostic equipment?

1. Unscrew the spark plug from the cylinder in which you suspect the problem.

2. Insert it back into the high voltage wire and place it on the metal part of the engine (ground).

3. Crank the starter and watch for a spark:

- Strong blue spark - the coil is working.

- Weak or absent orange spark - the coil is faulty.

⚠️ Be careful: the method requires caution so as not to get an electric shock!

Diagnosing error P1320: step-by-step instructions

For accurate diagnosis P1320 you will need:

• 🔧 OBD-II scanner (For example, ELM327 or Launch CReader).
• 📊 Multimeter to check resistance.
• 🔍 Tool set for dismantling coils and sensors.

Step 1: Read Errors

Connect the scanner to the connector OBD-II (located under the steering wheel) and read all fault codes. Please note:

• If together with P1320 There is P030X (where X is the cylinder number), the problem is most likely in the coil or spark plug of this cylinder.
• If there is P0340 or P0335, check the sensors CMP And CKP.

Step 2: Visual Inspection

Open the hood and inspect:

• 🔌 Ignition coil connectors — whether there is oxidation or poor contact.
• 🔥 Condition of the candles — presence of carbon deposits, oil or cracks on the insulator.
• 📡 Wiring of CKP/CMP sensors — are there any frays or exposed wires?

Step 3: Checking the Ignition Coils

To check coil resistance:

1. Remove the coil from the engine.
2. Measure the resistance between the terminals 1 and 3 (primary winding) - norm: 0.5–1.5 Ohm.
3. Measure the resistance between the terminal 2 and a metal case (secondary winding) - norm: 6–15 kOhm.

If the values are outside the limits, the coil is faulty.

Step 4: Checking CKP and CMP Sensors

For crankshaft sensor (CKP):

1. Remove the sensor (located next to the crankshaft pulley).
2. Check the resistance between the terminals - there should be 200–1000 Ohm.
3. Check the circuit for opens and short circuits.

For camshaft sensor (CMP) resistance rate - 500–1500 Ohm.

Read all errors with an OBD-II scanner|Visually check the coils and wiring|Measure the resistance of the coils|Check the CKP/CMP sensors|Inspect the spark plugs-->

Step 5: Checking Signals with an Oscilloscope (Advanced)

If you have access to an oscilloscope, you can check the waveforms from the sensors and coils. For CKP normal signal - clear impulses without gaps. For coils - a smooth voltage curve without surges.

⚠️ Attention: If after replacing coils or sensors an error P1320 left, check ECU firmware. In rare cases, the problem lies in incorrect calibrations of the control unit (especially after chip tuning).

How to fix error P1320: repair methods

Remedy P1320 depends on the cause found. Below we will look at all possible scenarios - from simple to complex.

1. Replacing the ignition coil

If the diagnostics showed a coil malfunction:

• 🛒 Buy an original coil (for example, for QR25DE fits Nissan 22448-4M015).
• 🔧 Remove the old coil by disconnecting the connector and unscrewing the mounting bolt.
• 🔌 Install the new coil, making sure the connector is in tight contact.

Important: It is better to change the coils as a set, since the rest may soon fail.

2. Repair or replacement of wiring

If the problem is in the wires:

• 🔍 Find the damaged area (most often it is a tourniquet next to the coils or sensors).
• 🧵 Insulate exposed wires with heat shrink tubing or electrical tape.
• 🔌 If the wire is very frayed, replace it completely using repair connectors.

3. Replacing CKP or CMP sensors

If the sensors are faulty:

• 🛒 For CKP on QR25DE fits Nissan 23731-4M000.
• 🔧 Remove the old sensor, cleaning the seat from dirt.
• 📏 Install the new sensor, maintaining the gap (usually 0.5–1.5 mm).

Advice: Before replacing, check the sensor's power circuit - sometimes the problem is a broken wire, and not the sensor itself.

4. Replacing spark plugs

If the spark plugs are worn or have incorrect clearance:

• 🔧 Unscrew the old spark plugs (use a torque wrench to avoid stripping the threads).
• 📏 Check the gap of the new spark plug (should be 0.8–1.1 mm for most engines Nissan).
• 🔥 Install new spark plugs (for example, NGK IFR6A11 or Denso FK16HR11).

5. Other methods

• 🛢️ Cleaning the injectors (if the error is related to misfires due to bad fuel).
• 💻 Flashing the ECU (if the problem is in the software, contact the chip tuners).
• 🔄 Resetting adaptations (sometimes it helps to reset the error through a diagnostic scanner).

Prevention of error P1320: how to avoid recurrence

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

• 🔧 Change spark plugs every 60–80 thousand km (or more often if you use gas equipment).
• 🛢️ Refuel at trusted gas stations — bad fuel accelerates wear of the coils.
• 🔌 Clean your contacts periodically coils and sensors from oxidation (use WD-40 or contact lubricant).
• 📡 Check the ignition circuit at every maintenance (especially if the car is operated in high humidity conditions).
• 💻 Update the ECU firmware (if there are official updates from Nissan).

On models with engines VQ35DE (For example, Nissan Teana J32) it is recommended to check every 100 thousand km insulation condition of high-voltage wires, as they become tanned and crack over time.

⚠️ Attention: If you often drive off-road or in dusty conditions, install additional protection for coil connectors (for example, silicone cases). This will prevent dirt and moisture from entering.

Frequently asked questions about error P1320 on Nissan

Is it possible to drive with error code P1320?

Short term - yes, but not recommended. If the error is accompanied by misfires or flashing Check Engine, driving may damage the catalyst. It is also possible for the engine to overheat due to inefficient fuel combustion.

How much does it cost to repair error code P1320?

The cost depends on the reason:

• Replacing one coil - from 2,000 to 5,000 rubles. (including work).
• Replacing the CKP sensor - from 1,500 to 3,000 rubles.
• Wiring repair - from 1,000 to 4,000 rubles. (depending on complexity).

Complete replacement of all coils with QR25DE will cost 15,000–25,000 rubles.

Why does P1320 appear after washing the engine?

Moisture gets into the coil or sensor connectors, causing a short circuit. Solution:

1. Dry the engine compartment (you can use a compressor).
2. Process contacts WD-40 or electrical spray.
3. Check the integrity of the wire insulation.

Could P1320 be caused by bad gasoline?

Yes, but indirectly. Bad fuel leads to misfires, which the ECU can interpret as a coil failure. In this case it will help:

• Refueling with high-quality gasoline (for example, AI-95 from a trusted brand).
• Cleaning injectors (you can use an additive Liqui Moly Injection Reiniger).

Which ignition coils are best for Nissan?

Recommended options:

• Original — Nissan 22448-4M015 (for QR25DE).
• Analogues:
  • Beru ZS202 (good price/quality ratio).
  • Denso 550-0103 (long life).
  • NGK U5008(suitable for many models Nissan).

Important: Avoid cheap Chinese analogues - they often fail after 10-20 thousand km.