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

Nissan Sunny is a legendary car known for its reliability, but even it is not immune to problems with electronics. Error P1320 - one of the most common malfunctions encountered by owners of models with engines GA16DE, SR20DE and other gasoline units. This code indicates problems in the ignition system, but its interpretation depends on the year of manufacture, the type of ECU and even the region where the car was built.

Unlike errors like P0300 (misfires), P1320 is often misleading: it can indicate either a malfunction of the crankshaft position sensor or problems with the wiring or firmware of the control unit. In this article we will look at unique diagnostic features of P1320 specifically for Nissan Sunny (including models B14 And B15)so that you can accurately determine the cause and eliminate it without extra costs.

What does error P1320 mean on Nissan Sunny?

Code P1320 in the self-diagnosis system Nissan stands for "Ignition Signal Primary" - the problem is in the primary ignition circuit. However, this general definition does not reflect all the specifics. In practice, the error may mean:

• 🔧 Crankshaft position (CKP) sensor malfunction - the most common reason, especially on cars with mileage over 150 thousand km.
• ⚡ Problems with ignition coils or high-voltage wires (typical for models with a system DIS — Direct Ignition System).
• 📶 Computer malfunctions (for example, after unsuccessful chip tuning or firmware update).
• 🔌 Breaks or short circuits in the wiring between the ECU, sensors and coils.

It is important to understand that Nissan Sunny with engines GA14DE And GA16DE error P1320 often accompanied by additional codes - for example, P0325 (problems with the knock sensor) or P0340 (camshaft position sensor malfunction). This complicates diagnosis, since the causes may overlap each other.

In practice, owners Sunny B14 (1998–2002) encounter this error more often than owners B15 (2002–2006), due to the design of the CKP sensor and its location near the flywheel, where it is subject to vibration and overheating.

The main causes of P1320

To effectively resolve an error, you need to understand its root cause. Below we list the most likely scenarios, ranked by frequency of occurrence on Nissan Sunny.

1. Malfunction of the crankshaft position (CKP) sensor

CKP sensor on Sunny located next to the flywheel and may fail over time due to:

• 🔥 Overheating (especially if the car is driven in a hot climate or with a faulty cooling system).
• 💥 Mechanical damage (for example, after shock or vibration from a worn flywheel).
• 🧲 Contamination with metal shavings, which sticks to the sensor and distorts the signal.

Symptoms of a CKP malfunction: floating speed, problems starting the engine (especially “hot”), loss of power during acceleration. Error P1320 in this case often appears along with P0335 (CKP sensor circuit malfunction).

2. Problems with ignition coils or high-voltage wires

On Nissan Sunny with the system DIS (individual coils for each cylinder) error P1320 may indicate:

• ⚡ Coil insulation breakdown (often visible by cracks or traces of melting).
• 🔌 Open or short circuit in the coil power supply circuit (checked with a multimeter).
• 🛑 Wear of high-voltage wires (relevant for older models with distributor).

You can diagnose the problem by rearrangement of coils between cylinders: if the error “transfers” to another cylinder, the coil is to blame. It is also worth paying attention to spark plugs — their wear or incorrect clearance can provoke system malfunctions.

3. Malfunctions of the ECU or firmware

Electronic control unit (ECU) on Sunny may throw a false error P1320 due to:

• 🖥️ Incorrect firmware (for example, after chip tuning or software update).
• 🔋 Unstable power supply (problems with mass, oxidation of contacts).
• 📡 Interference from other electronic systems (for example, after installing an alarm or multimedia).

If the error appears periodically and is not accompanied by other symptoms (for example, engine vibration), there is a high probability that the problem is in the ECU. In this case it will help reset adaptations or flashing the block.

⚠️ Attention: On Nissan Sunny with ECU ECU 23710-4M000/23710-4M005 resetting errors via an OBD-II scanner may not help - diagnostics with specialized equipment is required (for example, Consult-II or Nissan DataScan).

How to diagnose error P1320 yourself?

Before going to a service station, you can carry out initial diagnostics on your own. For this you will need:

• 🔧 OBD-II scanner (even the simplest one, for example, ELM327).
• 📊 Multimeter to check voltage and resistance.
• 🔍 Visual inspection sensors and wiring.

Algorithm of actions:

1. Count all errors scanner. If in addition P1320 There is P0335 or P0340, the problem is most likely in the CKP or CMP sensors.
2. Check CKP sensor:
   • Disconnect the sensor connector.
   • Measure the resistance between the contacts (standard for Sunny: 500–1500 Ohm).
   • Check the voltage at the connector with the ignition on (should be 5 V).

Inspect the ignition coils for cracks, melting or corrosion.

Check ECU ground — oxidation of contacts often leads to false errors.

If after checking the sensors and coils the problem is not found, you should pay attention to wiring harness between the ECU and the sensors. On Nissan Sunny it often rubs against the intake manifold or cylinder head, which leads to short circuits.

Step-by-step instructions for resolving the error

Depending on the cause, repair methods will vary. Below we provide step-by-step instructions for the most common cases.

1. Replacing the crankshaft position (CKP) sensor

If the sensor is faulty, it must be replaced. For Nissan Sunny Original sensors with article numbers are suitable:

• 23731-4M000 (for engines GA14DE/GA16DE),
• 23731-5M000 (for SR20DE).

Replacement process:

1. Disconnect the negative terminal of the battery.
2. Remove the flywheel guard (on some models the starter will need to be removed).
3. Disconnect the sensor connector and unscrew its mounting bolt.
4. Install the new sensor, having first cleaned the seat from dirt.
5. Connect the connector and check the gap between the sensor and the flywheel (should be 0.5–1.5 mm).

⚠️ Attention: After replacing the CKP sensor with Nissan Sunny with ECU 23710-4M000 It may be necessary to reset the throttle adaptations via the diagnostic scan tool. Otherwise, the engine will run unstable at idle.

2. Repair or replacement of ignition coils

If the problem is with the coils, proceed as follows:

1. Remove the coils from the engine (on Sunny with DIS they are bolted to the valve cover).
2. Check the resistance of the primary and secondary windings:
   • Primary winding: 0.5–1.0 Ohm,
   • Secondary winding: 8–12 kOhm.
3. If the resistance is not correct, replace the coil. Original articles:
   • 22448-4M000 (for GA16DE),
   • 22448-5M000 (for SR20DE).

When installing new coils, be sure to apply dielectric grease on the contacts to prevent corrosion.

3. Checking and repairing wiring

If the problem is in the wiring, proceed according to the following algorithm:

1. Disconnect the CKP sensor and ignition coil connectors.
2. Test the wires with a multimeter for breaks or short circuits.
3. Pay special attention massive wires ECUs - they often oxidize.
4. If damaged wires are found, replace them or use heat shrink tubing for insulation.

On Nissan Sunny B14 A common problem is the wiring rubbing against the intake manifold bracket. To avoid repeated malfunctions, secure the harness with plastic clamps.

Cost of repairs and selection of spare parts

The cost of repair depends on the cause of the error P1320 and selected spare parts. Below is a cost comparison table for Nissan Sunny (as of 2026).

Detail	Original (item)	Price, rub.	Analogue (brand)	Price, rub.
CKP sensor	23731-4M000	3 500–5 000	Denso, Bosch	1 800–2 500
Ignition coil	22448-4M000	4 000–6 000	NGK, Beru	2 500–3 500
High voltage wires (set)	22450-4M000	2 000–3 000	NGK, Tesla	1 200–1 800
Diagnostics at a service station	—	1 500–3 000	—	—

When choosing analogues, pay attention to ECU compatibility your car. For example, coils NGK under the article U5007 suitable for Sunny B15, but may not work correctly with B14 due to differences in firmware.

If you decide to repair yourself, we recommend ordering spare parts from trusted suppliers, such as Exist.ru, Autodoc or Emex. When purchasing original parts, always check availability Nissan holograms on the packaging.

Common repair mistakes and how to avoid them

Many owners Nissan Sunny make typical mistakes when troubleshooting P1320, which causes the problem to reappear. Let's look at the most common of them.

• 🔧 Ignoring checking the clearance between the CKP sensor and the flywheel. The optimal gap is 0.5–1.5 mm. If it is larger, the signal will be weak; if less, the sensor may touch the flywheel.
• ⚡ Replacing only one ignition coil. If one coil fails, the others are likely worn out too. It is recommended to replace it as a set.
• 📶 Failure to reset ECU adaptations after replacing sensors. On Sunny with ECU 23710-4M000/4M005 this leads to floating rpm.
• 🔌 Use of inappropriate high voltage wires. Wires with incorrect resistance cause misfire.

Another common mistake is Diagnostics using code P1320 only, without taking into account associated errors. For example, if together with P1320 There is P0171 (lean mixture), the problem may be air leaks, not ignition.

What should I do if the error remains after replacing the CKP sensor?

If the new sensor is installed correctly, but the P1320 error persists, check:

1. Integrity of wiring from sensor to ECU.

2. The presence of metal shavings on the flywheel (they may interfere with reading the signal).

3. ECU performance (the unit may need to be re-flashed or replaced).

Prevention of error P1320 on Nissan Sunny

To avoid reappearance P1320, follow these guidelines:

• 🔧 Check the condition of the CKP sensor regularly (especially if the car is used in difficult conditions).
• ⚡ Use quality fuel — bad gasoline leads to detonation, which accelerates wear of the sensors.
• 📶 Monitor the condition of high-voltage wires and coils — replace them every 80–100 thousand km.
• 🔌 Clean the ECU contacts periodically from oxidation (use special sprays, for example, CRC Electronic Cleaner).
• 🛑 Avoid "lighting up" from other cars - Voltage surges can damage the ECU.

It is also recommended to carry out once a year computer diagnostics at the service station, even if no errors appear. This will help identify hidden problems at an early stage.

If your Nissan Sunny often stuck in traffic jams or used in high humidity conditions, pay attention to tightness of sensor connectors. Moisture can cause contact corrosion and false alarms.

FAQ: Frequently asked questions about error P1320

Is it possible to drive with error code P1320?

Short term - yes, but not recommended. Error P1320 can lead to misfires, which increases fuel consumption and the risk of catalyst damage. If the engine stalls or starts poorly, it is better to stop operating until the problem is eliminated.

Why does P1320 only appear when the engine is hot?

This is a typical sign CKP sensor malfunction or problems with ignition coils. When heated, the resistance in the circuits changes, and faulty elements begin to operate unstably. Check the sensor with a multimeter when the engine is warm - if the resistance is outside the normal range, it needs to be replaced.

Could P1320 be caused by bad gasoline?

Directly - no, but indirectly - yes. Bad fuel causes detonation, which increases the load on the CKP sensor and ignition coils. If the error appears after refueling, try draining the gasoline and refilling with high-quality fuel with an octane rating of at least AI-95.

How to reset error P1320 without a scanner?

On Nissan Sunny You can reset the error by disconnecting the negative terminal of the battery for 10–15 minutes. However, this will not eliminate the cause of its appearance. If the error returns, diagnostics are needed.

Is the CKP sensor from Nissan Almera suitable for Sunny?

Depends on the year of manufacture and type of ECU. For example, a sensor 23731-4M000 suitable for Almera N16 (2000–2006) and Sunny B14/B15. But before purchasing, check compatibility by VIN code or catalog Nissan.