Error P1320 on Nissan: why it occurs and how to fix it

Error P1320 on cars Nissan - one of the most common problems associated with the ignition system. It signals a malfunction in the coil control circuit, which can lead to engine tripping, loss of power and even inability to start. Owners Qashqai, X-Trail, Juke and other models encounter it as on gasoline engines HR16DE, MR20DE, and on diesel units. In this article we will look at what exactly the code means P1320, which nodes to check first and how to fix the problem without extra costs.

It is important to understand that ignoring this error is fraught with serious consequences: from increased fuel consumption to catalyst failure. Moreover, in 60% of cases the problem is solved by simply cleaning the contacts or replacing spark plugs - without expensive repairs. We have collected current data from manuals Nissan, the experience of auto electricians and owner reviews to provide a clear algorithm of actions. If you saw P1320 on the dashboard or scanner - don't panic: follow the diagnostic logic and you'll save time and money.

What does error P1320 mean on Nissan?

Code P1320 stands for "Ignition Signal Primary" — a problem in the primary circuit of the ignition system. In most cases the error indicates:

• 🔥 Ignition coil malfunction (break, short circuit or insulation breakdown).
• ⚡ Poor contact in the connectors of the coils or ECU.
• 🔌 Wiring damage between the control unit and the coils.
• 🛠️ Spark plug fault (especially if they haven’t changed for a long time).
• 📉 Computer malfunctions (rare, but requires checking).

On Nissan with distributed injection system (MPI) each coil is responsible for its own spark plug. If one of them fails, the ECU detects misfires and issues P1320. On diesel engines (for example, K9K on Qashqai) the error may indicate problems with the glow of the spark plugs or their control.

Interestingly, on some models (for example, Almera N16 or Primera P12) code P1320 sometimes appears after unsuccessful chip tuning or reset of ECU adaptations. In this case, the error may be “false” and disappear after restarting the engine.

P1320 Symptoms: How to Recognize the Problem

Error P1320 rarely appears “on its own” - it is usually preceded by noticeable changes in engine operation. Here are the key signs:

• 🚗 Engine tripping - especially at idle or during acceleration.
• ⚡ "Receipts" on the dashboard - lights up Check Engine, flashes occasionally.
• 💨 Power drop — the car accelerates worse, becomes “stupid” when overtaking.
• 🔥 Increased fuel consumption - up to +15-20% due to misfires.
• 🔊 Popping sounds in the exhaust system — unburned fuel burns out in the catalyst.

On Nissan Juke with motor HR16DE the error often manifests itself as “floating” revolutions - the tachometer needle twitches in the range of 800-1200 rpm. On X-Trail T31 with MR20DE Vibration may be observed in the body when driving in low gears. If you ignore these symptoms, over time misfires will lead to:

⚠️ Attention: Long driving with error P1320 destroys the catalytic converter. Replacing it will cost 30-80 thousand rubles - 5-10 times more expensive than timely repair of coils!

On diesel Nissan (For example, Navara with YD25DDTi) the symptoms are slightly different: the engine may stall when starting, take longer to warm up, or smoke white exhaust. Here P1320 often accompanied by errors in glow plugs (P0380, P0670).

Reasons for error P1320: what breaks most often

According to statistics from service centers, in 85% of cases they are to blame ignition coils or candles. But there are also less obvious reasons. Let's look at them in descending order of frequency:

Reason	Frequency (%)	Models where it occurs most often
Ignition coil malfunction	45%	Qashqai J10/J11, X-Trail T31/T32, Juke F15
Worn or broken spark plugs	30%	Almera N16, Note E11/E12, Tiida C11
Poor contact in coil/ECU connectors	15%	Pathfinder R51, Murano Z50/Z51
Damage to wiring (break, short circuit)	7%	Primera P12, Teana J31/J32
ECU or firmware failures	3%	GT-R R35 (after chip tuning), 370Z

On Nissan with the system Direct Ignition System (DIS) the coils are integrated with the spark plugs into a single module. Over time, the rubber seals lose their elasticity, and moisture penetrates inside, causing corrosion of the contacts. This is a typical problem for Qashqai J10 2007-2010 release.

One more nuance: on engines QR25DE (for example, in X-Trail T30) coils often “die” in pairs - if one fails, the next one will soon fail. This is due to the peculiarities of their cooling. When replacing coils on these engines, it is recommended to install kits from Hitachi or Denso — they last 2-3 times longer than their analogues.

How to check the ignition coil with a multimeter?

1. Remove the coil from the engine (disconnect the connector and unscrew the mounting bolt).

2. Set the multimeter to resistance measurement mode (200 ohms).

3. Connect the probes to the terminals of the primary winding (connector contacts). Normal resistance: 0.5–1.5 ohms.

4. To check the secondary winding, connect to the high-voltage terminal and one of the connector contacts. Normal: 6–15 kOhm (depending on the coil model).

5. If the readings are outside the limits, the coil is faulty.

Diagnosing error P1320: step-by-step instructions

To pinpoint the cause P1320, follow this algorithm. Let's start with the simplest checks:

Visual inspection of coils and spark plugs for cracks/carbon deposits

Checking the error code with a scanner (are there any associated errors)

Measuring coil resistance with a multimeter

Checking the voltage at the coil connector (should be 12V when the ignition is on)

Spark jump test in the dark (when starting the engine)

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Step 1: Reading Error Codes

Connect a diagnostic scanner (for example, ELM327 or Launch CReader) and check if there is besides P1320 other errors:

• P0300-P0306 — cylinder misfires (indicates a problematic cylinder).
• P0351-P0356 — coil circuit malfunction (the specific number corresponds to the cylinder).
• P0171/P0174 - lean mixture (may be a result of omissions).

If there are errors on a specific coil (for example, P0352 - coil of the 2nd cylinder), start diagnostics with it.

Step 2. Checking the ignition coils

On Nissan The coils are bolted to the valve covers. To check them:

1. Disconnect the connector from the coil (press the latch and pull up).
2. Unscrew the fastening bolt (usually “10”).
3. Measure the resistance (see spoiler above).
4. Inspect the housing for cracks and signs of breakdown (dark spots or melting).

⚠️ Attention: On motors VQ35DE (for example, in Teana J32) the coils have individual connectors with snap-on latches. Do not pull on the wires - only on the connector housing!

Step 3. Spark plug diagnostics

Unscrew the spark plugs and assess their condition:

• 🔥 Normal candle — light brown soot, gap 0.8–1.1 mm.
• ⚠️ Oil soot - black and wet (indicates oil has entered the combustion chamber).
• ❌ Insulator breakdown - cracks or black tracks on ceramics.

On Nissan with motors HR16DE/MR20DE It is recommended to use candles NGK IFR6A11 or Denso FK16HR11. The gap should be 1.0–1.1 mm.

How to fix error P1320: repair and replacement of parts

The repair method depends on the fault found. Let's consider some scenarios:

1. Replacing the ignition coil

If the coil is faulty (breakdown, break or short circuit), it must be replaced. On Nissan coils are often installed:

• Hitachi (original, article 22448-4M015 for Qashqai J11).
• Denso (analog, article 55001-4M000).
• Beru (budget option, but resource ~50 thousand km).

Cost of the original reel: 3–6 thousand rubles. Replacement takes 20-30 minutes per piece.

2. Cleaning contacts and connectors

If the problem is contact oxidation:

1. Disconnect the connector from the coil and the ECU.
2. Clean contacts with spray Contact Cleaner (For example, CRC 05103).
3. Check the integrity of the wires (for fractures or melting).
4. Apply to contacts dielectric grease (For example, Liqui Moly 7644).

⚠️ Attention: On Nissan Patrol Y61 with motor TB48DE The coil connectors have fragile plastic latches. When cleaning, do not use metal brushes - only plastic tools!

3. Replacing spark plugs

Candles on Nissan It is recommended to change every 30–50 thousand km (depending on the model). When replacing:

• Use a torque wrench (tightening torque: 20–25 Nm).
• Do not allow dirt to get into the spark plug wells.
• Check the spark plug gap with a feeler gauge (for HR16DE — 1.0 mm).

On Nissan Almera G15 with motor K4M candles are often installed Bosch FR7DPX, but they can cause omissions. It's better to use original ones NGK.

Prevention of error P1320: how to avoid recurrence

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

• 🔧 Change spark plugs regularly - every 30–40 thousand km (even if they “seem to be working”).
• 🛢️ Use quality fuel — bad gasoline accelerates the wear of spark plugs and coils.
• 🚿 Avoid pressure washing the engine — water gets into the coil connectors.
• 🔌 Clean your contacts periodically - at least once a year (spring or autumn).
• 📊 Monitor ECU adaptations — after replacing coils or spark plugs, reset the errors using the scanner.

On Nissan Juke with motor HR16DE owners often face P1320 after the winter period. The reason is condensation in the spark plug wells. To avoid this, treat your wells before winter. silicone grease (For example, Gunk Silicone Spray).

Another tip for owners Nissan X-Trail T32: If you often drive off-road, install engine protection with ventilation holes. This will prevent dirt from getting on the coils and wiring.

Frequently asked questions about error P1320 on Nissan

Is it possible to drive with error code P1320?

Short term - yes, but not recommended. Long-term driving with misfires leads to:

• Overheating of the catalyst (risk of melting).
• Increased wear of piston rings.
• Increased fuel consumption by 15–20%.

If the error appears on the way, try to get to the service center without sudden acceleration.

How much does it cost to repair error code P1320?

The cost depends on the reason:

Type of repair	Cost (RUB)
Replacing one coil	3,000–6,000 (with work)
Replacing a set of spark plugs (4 pcs.)	2,500–4,500 (with work)
Cleaning contacts and connectors	1 000–1 500
Diagnostics + error reset	800–1 500

On Nissan GT-R or 370Z the cost may be higher due to the difficulty of accessing the coils.

Can P1320 appear after washing the engine?

Yes, this is a different situation. Water enters:

• Ignition coil connectors.
• Candle wells.
• Sensor contacts (eg CAM or CRANK).

To fix the problem:

1. Dry the engine (you can use a compressor).
2. Process contacts WD-40 or CRC 2-26.
3. Clear errors with a scanner.

Which ignition coils are best for Nissan?

Recommended brands and items:

• Hitachi — original, the most reliable (resource 150+ thousand km). Articles:
  • 22448-4M000 - for Qashqai J10, X-Trail T31.
  • 22448-AL50A - for Almera N16.
• Denso - a high-quality analogue, slightly cheaper than the original.
• NGK - good for engines VQ35DE (For example, Teana J32).

Avoid cheap reels NoName - they often fail after 20–30 thousand km.

Could P1320 be caused by bad gasoline?

Yes, but indirectly. Bad fuel leads to:

• Accelerated wear of spark plugs (carbon deposits, erosion of electrodes).
• Interruptions in the operation of the coils due to detonation.
• Injector contamination, which aggravates misfires.

If after refueling at a questionable gas station a P1320, try:

1. Add high-quality gasoline (for example, Gazpromneft G-Drive 98).
2. Add injector cleaner to the tank (Liqui Moly Injection Reiniger).
3. Drive 50–100 km at high speed (3,000–4,000 rpm) to self-clean.