Error P1320 on Nissan Sunny (especially relevant for models with engines GA16DE, SR20DE And QG18DE) is one of the most common problems associated with the ignition system. This code points to malfunction in the ignition coil control circuit, but its appearance can be caused by a number of reasons - from banal wear of spark plugs to serious problems with the computer. Unlike errors in oxygen or air flow sensors, P1320 often appears sporadically, which complicates diagnostics: the engine may stall, lose power, or even stall at idle, but the error is not always detected by the scanner the first time.

Owners Sunny in generations N15 And N16 encounter this problem most often due to the design features of the ignition system. For example, on engines GA16DE The ignition coils are integrated into the distributor cap, making them vulnerable to overheating and moisture. At the same time, on SR20DE error P1320 is often accompanied by a code P0300 (misfires), which requires an integrated approach to repair. In this article we will analyze all possible causes, diagnostic methods (including testing without a scanner) and step-by-step instructions for troubleshooting - from simple to complex.

What does error P1320 mean on Nissan Sunny

Code P1320 stands for "Ignition Signal Primary" — a problem in the primary ignition control circuit. In the system Nissan this code indicates that ECU (electronic control unit) does not receive the expected signal from the ignition coil or detects anomalies in its operation. It is important to understand that the P1320 is general codewhich may refer to:

  • 🔥 Ignition coil malfunctions (break, short circuit, insulation wear).
  • ⚡ Wiring problems between the ECU and the coil (oxidation of contacts, breaks).
  • 🔧 Problems with the ignition distributor (for models with distributor).
  • 💻 ECU malfunctions (less common, but possible if the unit is re-flashed or physically damaged).

In practice, error P1320 is often accompanied by the following symptoms:

  • 🚗 Engine troit at idle or under load.
  • ⚡ Misfires, especially during sudden acceleration.
  • 🔥 Lights up Check Engine, but the error may disappear after restarting the engine.
  • 🛑 In severe cases - engine stalls and will not start until the error is reset.

Feature Nissan Sunny is that P1320 may appear sporadically - for example, only in wet weather or when the engine is warm. This is due to the fact that the malfunction often lies in microcracks in wire insulation or bad contacts, which appear with changes in temperature or humidity.

📊 What engine does your Nissan Sunny have?
  • GA16DE
  • SR20DE
  • QG18DE
  • Other
  • I don't know

The main causes of error P1320

To effectively troubleshoot P1320, you need to understand root of the problem. Below we list all possible causes, ranked by frequency of occurrence on Nissan Sunny:

Reason Frequency (%) Symptoms
Faulty ignition coil 45% Troubleshooting, misfires, error appears in wet weather
Wiring problems (breaks, oxidation) 30% Occasional occurrence of P1320, temperature dependent
Worn spark plugs or high-voltage wires 15% Troubleshooting, difficult engine starting, especially in cold weather
Malfunction of the ignition distributor (for models with distributor) 8% The error is accompanied by P0325 (knock sensor circuit open)
ECU failures 2% Multiple errors, unstable engine operation

On engines GA16DE And SR20DE the most vulnerable point is ignition coils, which lose their insulating properties over time. For example, on Sunny N15 the coils often “break through” to ground, which leads to loss of spark in one or more cylinders. On QG18DE the problem is most often related to high voltage wires, which crack over time and begin to “punch” into the cylinder block.

One more nuance - fuel quality. In regions with poor gasoline, error P1320 may appear due to detonation, which leads to overload of the coils. In this case, the error is often accompanied by the code P0325 (knock sensor malfunction).

⚠️ Attention: If P1320 appears along with P0300 (misfire), check first spark plugs and high voltage wires. In 70% of cases, the problem is solved by replacing them.

How to diagnose P1320 without a scanner

Not everyone has a diagnostic scanner, but that doesn't mean you can't identify the cause of the error. Here step-by-step algorithm for self-check:

  1. Checking the spark plugs:
    • 🔧 Unscrew the spark plugs and inspect them for carbon deposits, cracks or oil marks.
    • 🔥 Check the gap between the electrodes (should be 0.8–1.1 mm for GA16DE/SR20DE).
    • 🔄 Swap the spark plugs: if the tripping moves to another cylinder, the problem is in the spark plugs.
  2. Checking high-voltage wires:
    • 🕵️ Inspect the wires in the dark with the engine running: if visible sparking — the wires are broken.
    • 📏 Measure the resistance of the wires with a multimeter (should be 5–10 kOhm per meter of length).
  3. Checking the ignition coils:
    • 🔌 Disconnect the coil connector and check the voltage at the contacts with the ignition on (there should be 12 V).
    • 📊 Check the resistance of the primary and secondary windings (values depend on the coil model).

For engines GA16DE And SR20DE with distributor, additionally check:

  • 🔄 Condition distributor caps (cracks, soot).
  • 🔧 Distributor shaft play (if present, replacement required).
  • 📏 The gap between the contacts (must be 0.4–0.6 mm).

Checking spark plugs for carbon deposits and gaps|Inspecting high-voltage wires for breakdowns|Testing coils with a multimeter|Checking the distributor (for models with a distributor)|Diagnostics of wiring between the ECU and coils-->

If after checking all the elements the error remains, the problem may be in ECU or wiring. In this case, more in-depth diagnostics using a scanner will be required (for example, Launch CReader or ELM327).

⚠️ Attention: On Nissan Sunny N16 with engine QG18DE error P1320 may appear due to faulty crankshaft position sensor. Check its resistance (should be 800–1200 Ohm).

Step-by-step instructions for resolving error P1320

After diagnosis, you can begin repairs. Below - algorithm of actions depending on the identified cause:

1. Replacing spark plugs

If the spark plugs are worn out or have carbon deposits:

  • 🔧 Unscrew the old spark plugs and install new ones (recommended for Nissan Sunny: NGK BCP6ES or Denso K16PR-U11).
  • 🔥 The gap between the electrodes must be 0.8–1.1 mm (adjust if necessary).
  • 🔄 Replace all the candles at once, even if only one is faulty.

2. Replacement of high-voltage wires

If the wires are broken or have high resistance:

  • 🛒 Buy a set of wires for your model (for example, NGK 8661 for GA16DE).
  • 🔌 Disconnect the old wires, remembering their location (or take a photo).
  • 🔧 Install new wires, avoiding kinks and contact with hot engine parts.

3. Checking and replacing ignition coils

If the coil is faulty:

  • 📊 Check the winding resistance:
    • Primary winding: 0.5–1.5 Ohm.
    • Secondary winding: 6–15 kOhm (depending on the model).
  • 🔧 If the resistance is not normal, replace the coil (original numbers: 22448-4M000 for GA16DE, 22448-5M000 for SR20DE).

4. Wiring repair

If the problem is in the wires between the ECU and the coil:

  • 🔍 Inspect the wiring harness for chafing, oxidation or breaks.
  • 🔧 Clean and insulate damaged areas or replace the entire tourniquet.
  • 🔌 Check the contacts in the ECU connectors (oxidation is a common cause of P1320).

After replacing elements be sure to clear the error with ECU. To do this:

  1. Disconnect the battery terminal for 10-15 minutes.
  2. Connect the scanner and reset the error codes (or use the combination ON-OFF ignition 3 times in a row).
💡

If error P1320 remains after replacing the coil, check condition of the connector on the ECU — often oxidation of contacts leads to false alarms.

Common repair mistakes and how to avoid them

Many owners Nissan Sunny make typical mistakes that lead to the reappearance of P1320. That's what can't do:

  • ❌ Change only one spark plug or wire - if one part is worn out, the rest are also on the verge of failure.
  • ❌ Ignore coil check after replacing the spark plugs - if the problem is in the coil, the new spark plugs will quickly fail.
  • ❌ Use non-original spare parts - Cheap coils or wires often have the wrong resistance, which leads to failures.
  • ❌ Don't check the ECU - if the error returns after replacing all elements, the problem may be in the control unit.

Another common mistake is incorrect assembly after repair. For example:

  • 🔌 Mixed up high voltage wires will lead to misfires and new errors.
  • 🔧 Insufficiently tightened spark plugs may cause overheating and damage to the threads in the cylinder head.
  • 🔥 Oil or dirt getting into spark plug wells will lead to coil breakdown.

To avoid these problems:

  • 📸 Take pictures of the wire locations before removal.
  • 🔧 Use torque wrench for tightening spark plugs (tightening torque: 20–25 Nm).
  • 🧹 Clean candle wells compressed air before installing new parts.
What happens if you ignore P1320?

If the cause of the P1320 error is not addressed, over time it will lead to:

  1. Damage to the catalyst due to incomplete combustion of fuel.
  2. Engine overheating due to misfire.
  3. ECU failure (if the problem is a short circuit).
  4. Complete loss of spark and inability to start the car.

On average, ignoring P1320 costs 3–5 times more expensivethan timely repairs.

Cost of repairs and selection of spare parts

The cost of repair depends on the cause of the error and the spare parts chosen. Below are the estimated costs for Nissan Sunny (for 2026):

Detail Original (₽) Analogue (₽) Service life
Spark plugs (set) 1 200–1 800 600–1 000 30–50 thousand km
High voltage wires (set) 2 500–3 500 1 200–2 000 60–80 thousand km
Ignition coil (1 pc.) 4 000–6 000 2 500–3 500 100–150 thousand km
Ignition distributor (distributor) 5 000–8 000 3 000–5 000 100–120 thousand km
Diagnostics in the service 1 500–3 000 — —

Recommendations for choosing spare parts:

  • 🔥 Candles: Optimal choice - NGK or Denso (original numbers: 22401-4M000 for GA16DE).
  • ⚡ Wires: The best analogues - NGK or Bosch (resistance should not exceed 10 kOhm).
  • 🔧 Reels: For SR20DE will do Hitachi (22448-5M000), for QG18DE — Mitsubishi (22448-8H000).

If your budget is limited, you can save on analogues, but It is not recommended to buy:

  • 🚫Candles of unknown brands (for example, "NoName" from China - often have incorrect clearance).
  • 🚫 Wires without silicone insulation (crack quickly).
  • 🚫 Reels without warranty (risk of defects or low resource).
💡

Saving on spare parts to fix P1320 often leads to repeated repairs after 10–20 thousand km. The optimal balance is original spark plugs + high-quality analogues of wires and coils.

Preventing error P1320

To avoid recurrence of P1320, follow these recommendations:

  • 🔧 Check your spark plugs regularly (every 20–30 thousand km) and replace them set.
  • ⚡ Monitor the condition of high-voltage wires — cracks or breakdowns should be a signal for replacement.
  • 🛢️ Use quality fuel (octane number not lower 92) to avoid detonation.
  • 💧 Protect the engine from moisture — Park in dry places, check the hood seals.
  • 🔌 Clean the ECU contacts from oxidation (use contact lubricant).

For engines GA16DE And SR20DE especially important:

  • 🔥 Monitor engine temperature — overheating accelerates wear of the coils.
  • 🔧 Check the ignition distributor (for models with distributor) every 60 thousand km.

If your Nissan Sunny often used in humid climate or dusty conditions, it is recommended:

  • 🛡️ Install protective case to the ignition coils.
  • 🔌 Process contacts silicone grease for protection against corrosion.
⚠️ Attention: On Nissan Sunny N16 with engine QG18DE error P1320 may appear after washing the engine. Always dry the engine compartment after washing!

FAQ: Frequently asked questions about error P1320

Is it possible to drive with error code P1320?

Short term - yes, but not recommended. Driving for a long time with this error can lead to:

  • 🔥 Catalyst overheating (due to incomplete combustion of fuel).
  • 💥 Engine damage (detonation, increased wear).
  • 🚗 Complete loss of spark and inability to start the car.

If the error appears sporadically, you can go to the service center, but it is better to eliminate the cause as soon as possible.

Why does P1320 only appear in wet weather?

This is a typical sign insulation breakdown in high voltage wires or coils. Moisture penetrates microcracks and creates a path for current leakage, which leads to misfires. Solution:

  • 🔧 Replace wires and coils.
  • 🛡️ Install protective covers.
  • 🔌 Process your contacts dielectric grease.
What tools are needed to diagnose P1320?

Minimum set:

  • 🔧 Multimeter (to check the resistance of coils and wires).
  • 🔥 Candle key (usually on 16 mm or 21 mm).
  • 🔌 Diagnostic scanner (For example, ELM327 or Launch CReader).
  • 📸 Flashlight and mirror (for inspecting hard-to-reach places).

For in-depth diagnostics it may be necessary oscilloscope, but in most cases a multimeter is enough.

Can P1320 occur after replacing spark plugs?

Yes, if:

  • 🔧 Candles not tightened correctly (too weak or too strong).
  • 🔥 Gap between electrodes not up to standard.
  • 🚫 Installed unsuitable candles (with a different heat rating).
  • 🔌 Damaged wire insulation during installation.

Check all parameters and reinstall spark plugs if necessary.

Where is the ECU located on the Nissan Sunny, and how to check it?

On most models Nissan Sunny The ECU is located:

  • 📍 N15 (1995–2000): under the glove compartment, behind the plastic panel.
  • 📍 N16 (2000–2006): Under the hood, next to the battery.

To check:

  1. Disconnect the ECU connector and inspect the contacts on oxidation or damage.
  2. Check the voltage at the contacts with the ignition on (there should be 12 V on food).
  3. If the ECU is "buggy" (multiple errors, unstable operation), try reset it (disconnect the battery for 15 minutes).

If the unit is faulty, it can be repaired (resoldering the capacitors) or replaced (original number: 23710-4M000 for GA16DE).