Error P1320 on Nissan Sunny FB15: complete analysis of causes and solutions

Owners Nissan Sunny FB15 with engines GA15DE or GA16DE often encounter an error P1320 - one of the most common problems in the ignition system. This code points to Malfunction in the camshaft position sensor signal circuit, but often its appearance is associated with deeper problems than it seems at first glance. Unlike universal errors like P0300 (misfires), P1320 requires accurate diagnosis, as it can mask both sensor malfunctions and mechanical damage to the timing belt.

Feature Sunny FB15 (1995–2000) is that its electronic engine management system (ECU) is sensitive to the quality of signals from sensors. Error P1320 often accompanied by symptoms such as poor cold starting, failures during acceleration or even a complete engine stop. In this article we will look at not only standard causes (such as broken wiring), but also hidden defects, which car services often miss - for example, wear of the camshaft gear or incorrect operation immobilizer.

What does error P1320 mean on Nissan Sunny FB15

Code P1320 in the system OBD-II stands for "Ignition Signal Primary" - malfunction in the primary ignition circuit. However for Nissan Sunny FB15 this definition requires clarification. In most cases the error is related to:

• 🔍 Camshaft position (CMP) sensor — its signal does not correspond to the expected parameters.
• ⚡ Ignition coil - open circuit or short circuit in the primary winding.
• 🔧 Mechanical timing problems — displacement of marks, wear of the camshaft gear.
• 📡 ECU problems — failures in processing signals from sensors.

It is important to understand that P1320 - this is not an independent malfunction, but consequence. For example, if the CMP sensor produces an unstable signal due to play in the camshaft gear, ECU Fixes an error, although the real problem is mechanical. On Sunny FB15 this code often appears along with P0340 (camshaft sensor error), which narrows the search.

The main causes of error P1320

When diagnosing P1320 on Nissan Sunny FB15 important to consider car age and its mileage. Most problems are related to worn components, but there are also specific cases. Let's look at them in order:

1. Malfunction of the camshaft position (CMP) sensor

CMP sensor on FB15 located next to the cylinder head and reads the camshaft position via a magnetic signal. Over time, its contacts oxidize, and the sensor itself loses accuracy. Signs of malfunction:

• 🔥 The check lights up when the engine warms up.
• 🚗 The engine stalls when changing gears.
• 📉 Power drop at high speeds.

The sensor is checked with a multimeter: the resistance between the terminals should be within the limits 200–1000 Ohm. If the values ​​are outside the limits, the sensor must be replaced.

2. Problems with the ignition coil

On Sunny FB15 used one ignition coil (unlike modern systems with individual coils). Its malfunction leads to misfires and the appearance of P1320. Typical symptoms:

• ⚡ Shot into the exhaust pipe during startup.
• 🔊 Cracking noise under the hood when the engine is running.
• 🛑 The engine stalls after warming up.

To check the coil, measure the resistance of the primary winding (0.5–1.5 Ohm) and secondary (6–15 kOhm). Deviations indicate the need for replacement.

How to check the ignition coil without a multimeter?

If you don’t have a multimeter at hand, you can temporarily install a known-good coil (for example, from another Sunny FB15). If error P1320 disappears, the problem is in the coil. However, this method does not guarantee a 100% diagnosis, since the malfunction may be intermittent.

3. Mechanical timing problems

One of the most insidious reasons P1320 — valve timing offset. On Sunny FB15 this happens due to:

• 🔄 Timing chain stretch (mileage 150+ thousand km).
• ⚙️ Camshaft gear wear - the teeth are worn out and the CMP sensor reads the wrong signal.
• 🔧 Incorrect placement of labels after repair.

This can only be diagnosed visually by removing the valve cover. Pay attention to the camshaft gear play - if there is any, replacement will be required.

Diagnosing error P1320: step-by-step instructions

To pinpoint the cause P1320, follow this algorithm. Start with the simplest checks and gradually move on to complex ones:

1. Read errors with scanner - if in addition P1320 There is P0340 or P0300, the problem is more likely in the timing sensor or mechanics.
2. Check wiring - oxidation of the contacts of the CMP sensor or ignition coil can cause false signals.
3. Measure the resistance of the sensors (standards are indicated above).
4. Check timing marks - even a small displacement (by 1-2 teeth) causes an error.
5. Test the ECU - if everything else is in order, the problem may be in the control unit.

Pay special attention checking sensor power supply. On Sunny FB15 Often the wires near the exhaust manifold fray, which leads to a short circuit. Use dialing to check the continuity of the circuit from ECU to the sensor.

⚠️ Attention: If after replacing the CMP sensor the error P1320 remained, do not rush to change ECU. Check first engine weight - on FB15 it often oxidizes near the battery, which leads to malfunctions of the electronics.

How to Fix Error P1320: Practical Solutions

Depending on the cause, repair methods will vary. Below are proven solutions for Nissan Sunny FB15:

Reason	Solution	Cost (approx.)	Difficulty
Faulty CMP sensor	Replacing the sensor (article: 23731-4M000)	1 500–2 500 ₽	⭐⭐ (simple)
Break in the ignition coil	Replacing the coil (item: 22448-4M000)	3 000–5 000 ₽	⭐⭐ (simple)
Stretched timing chain	Replacement of chain, gears, tensioner	8 000–12 000 ₽	⭐⭐⭐⭐ (difficult)
Oxidation of ECU contacts	Cleaning the control unit connectors	500–1 000 ₽	⭐⭐⭐ (average)
Faulty immobilizer	Flashing or replacing the key chip	2 000–6 000 ₽	⭐⭐⭐⭐ (difficult)

If you decide to replace the CMP sensor yourself, follow these instructions:

1. Disconnect the negative terminal of the battery.
2. Remove the valve cover (4 x 10 bolts).
3. Disconnect the sensor connector and unscrew it (10mm wrench).
4. Install the new sensor, observing the tightening torque (8–10 Nm).
5. Check timing marks before assembly.

⚠️ Attention: When replacing the timing chain with Sunny FB15 be sure to change tensioner and damper. Using old parts will cause the new chain to stretch quickly.

Hidden causes of error P1320 that are not discussed in services

Many auto electricians limit themselves to replacing the CMP sensor or coil, but in practice P1320 may occur due to less obvious reasons:

1. Problems with the immobilizer

On Sunny FB15 with immobilizer NATS engine control unit (ECU) can block the ignition if the chip in the key is faulty. This shows up as:

• 🔑 The engine starts and immediately stalls.
• 🚨 The immobilizer indicator flashes on the dashboard.
• 📛 Error P1320 appears along with P1610 (immobilizer error).

Solution - flashing the key or chip replacement. In some cases, disabling the immobilizer programmatically helps (requires soldering work with ECU).

2. Poor engine weight

Oxidation of the ground contacts near the battery or on the block head leads to unstable sensor power supply. Symptoms:

• 🔋 The on-board network voltage “floats” during startup.
• 🛠️ Error P1320 appears periodically, without an obvious reason.
• 💡 Dim dashboard light when the engine is running.

To resolve:

1. Remove the negative cable from the battery.
2. Clean the ground contacts on the body and engine (use P80 sandpaper).
3. Apply contact lubricant (For example, Liqui Moly Kupfer-Spray).

3. ECU malfunction

Control unit Sunny FB15 sensitive to voltage changes. If ECU "buggy", it may incorrectly process signals from sensors, producing P1320. Signs:

• 🤖 The engine runs jerkily for no apparent reason.
• 🔄 The error appears and disappears by itself.
• 💻 The diagnostic scanner does not see some parameters (for example, the signal from the crankshaft sensor).

Solutions:

• 🔧 ECU flashing (if the problem is in the software).
• 🔨 Board repair (replacing capacitors, soldering tracks).
• 🆕 Replacing the block (extreme case, since new ECU requires binding to the immobilizer).

Common repair mistakes and how to avoid them

Many owners Nissan Sunny FB15 make the same mistakes when eliminating P1320, which causes the problem to reappear. Let's look at the most common ones:

1. Replacing the CMP sensor without checking the timing marks

If the timing chain is stretched or the timing marks are broken, the new sensor will not last long. Always check:

• 🔗 Chain tension - sagging more 10 mm unacceptable.
• 🎯 Tag Match on the camshaft and crankshaft (see diagram in the repair manual).
• ⚙️ Camshaft gear condition — play or chipped teeth require replacement.

2. Ignoring wiring condition

On Sunny FB15 The CMP sensor and ignition coil wires often rub against the intake manifold. If this is not corrected, the new sensor will quickly fail. What to do:

• 🔍 Inspect the wiring harness for scuffs.
• 🛠️ Secure the wires with clamps so that they do not touch hot surfaces.
• 🔌 Replace damaged sections of wiring (use heat shrink tubing for insulation).

3. Use of non-original spare parts

Cheap analogues of CMP sensors or ignition coils often have unstable characteristics, which leads to the recurrence of P1320. Recommended items:

• 🔧 CMP sensor: original 23731-4M000 or Denso 550102-0310.
• ⚡ Ignition coil: original 22448-4M000 or NGK U5008.

⚠️ Attention: When buying used ECU for Sunny FB15 make sure it matches the firmware version. Blocks from Nissan Almera N15 identical in appearance, but may not work with the immobilizer FB15.

FAQ: Frequently asked questions about error P1320 on Nissan Sunny FB15

Is it possible to drive with error code P1320?

Short-term - yes, but it is fraught with consequences:

• 🔥 Risk catalyst overheating due to improper fuel combustion.
• 🛑 Possible engine stop on the go (especially when warming up).
• 💰 Enlarged fuel consumption (up to 20–30%).

If the error appears for the first time, you can drive to the service center, but constantly operate the car with P1320 not recommended.

Why does error P1320 only appear when it is cold?

This is a typical sign:

• 🔌 Oxidized contacts CMP sensor (when heated, the oxide temporarily conducts current).
• 🧊 Condensation in connectors (disappears after warming up).
• 🔧 Camshaft gear wear — when cold, the gaps are larger, and the sensor reads the signal incorrectly.

Start by cleaning the contacts and checking the sensor with a multimeter.

How to reset error P1320 without a scanner?

On Nissan Sunny FB15 There are two ways to reset the error:

1. Battery disconnection:
   1. Remove the negative terminal for 10–15 minutes.
   2. Plug it back in - the error will be reset (but will return if the problem is not resolved).
2. Gas-brake method (does not work on all versions ECU):
   1. Turn on the ignition (without starting the engine).
   2. Press the gas pedal all the way and hold for 5 seconds.
   3. Release the gas, then press the brake pedal all the way for 5 seconds.
   4. Repeat the cycle 3 times, then turn off the ignition.

If the error returns, diagnostics are required.

Could P1320 be caused by bad gasoline?

No, P1320 is not directly related to fuel quality. However incorrect operation of injectors (due to bad gasoline) can indirectly affect sensor signals, complicating diagnostics. If together with P1320 errors like P0171 (lean mixture) or P0300 (misfire), makes sense:

• 🔥 Check spark plugs (carbon deposits, gap).
• 🛢️ Drain the old fuel and fill with high-quality gasoline (octane number not lower than 92).
• 💦 Check fuel pressure (norm for FB15 — 2.5–3.5 bar).

Where is the camshaft position sensor located on the Nissan Sunny FB15?

The CMP sensor is located:

• 📍 Top of the cylinder head, next to the camshaft.
• 🔧 Attached one bolt for 10.
• 🔌 Has two-pin connector (black and white wires).

To gain access, remove the valve cover (4 bolts). The photo below shows its exact location:

Photo of CMP sensor location

The sensor is located to the right of the camshaft (when viewed from the radiator). It is screwed to the cylinder head and connected to a wiring harness that runs along the intake manifold.