Error P1320 on Nissan Sunny: a complete analysis of the causes and repair methods

Error code P1320 on Nissan Sunny - one of the most common problems faced by owners of this car, especially on models with engines GA16DE And SR20DE. This error is directly related to the ignition system and can manifest itself as unstable engine operation, misfires, or even complete engine failure. Unlike many other codes, P1320 does not always indicate a serious breakdown - often the problem lies in small things that you can fix yourself.

In this article we will look in detail at what exactly the error means. P1320, what components of the car it affects, and how to properly diagnose. You will learn what tools are needed for testing, which parts most often fail, and how to avoid the error from reoccurring after repair. We will pay special attention engine specifics Nissan Sunny, where P1320 may occur due to design features of the ignition system.

What does error P1320 mean on Nissan Sunny?

Code P1320 stands for "Ignition Signal Primary" - this indicates a problem in the primary circuit of the ignition system. In most cases the error occurs when ECU (electronic control unit) detects a discrepancy between the signals from the crankshaft position sensors (CKP) and camshaft (CMP) with the actual operation of the ignition coils. Simply put, the control unit “sees” that a spark should appear in one cylinder, but in practice this does not happen.

On Nissan Sunny with engines GA16DE And SR20DE error P1320 often accompanied by the following symptoms:

• 🔥 The engine stalls or idles intermittently
• ⚡ Misfires, especially when pressing the gas sharply
• 🚗 Power drop and jerks during acceleration
• 🛑 The lamp lights up or flashes Check Engine
• 🔋 Increased fuel consumption (10-15% higher than normal)

It is important to understand that P1320 - This is not an independent malfunction, but a consequence of another problem. It can be caused by both sensor malfunction and mechanical damage (for example, camshaft wear). In some cases, the error appears after unqualified repairs or the use of low-quality spare parts.

The main causes of error P1320

Causes P1320 on Nissan Sunny can be divided into three categories: problems with sensors, malfunctions in the ignition system and mechanical damage. Let's take a closer look at them.

1. Sensor malfunctions

Most often the error is related to the crankshaft position sensors (CKP) and camshaft (CMP). These sensors send signals to the ECU, which are used to calculate ignition timing. If the signal is weak, intermittent or absent altogether, the control unit records an error P1320.

• 📉 Worn or damaged CKP sensor - the most common reason. The sensor may be contaminated with metal shavings or have a damaged wire.
• 🔄 Timing timing marks mismatch - if the timing belt or chain has jumped 1-2 teeth, the sensor signals will be asynchronous.
• 🔌 Oxidation of contacts — Corrosion on sensor connectors or in the wiring harness can lead to signal loss.

2. Problems in the ignition system

On Nissan Sunny with individual ignition coils (COP, Coil On Plug) error P1320 often occurs due to:

• ⚡ Ignition coil breakdown — cracks in insulation or internal short circuits.
• 🔌 Open circuit or short circuit in the coil circuit - Check the wires for chafing.
• 🛠️ Incorrect installation of coils - if the coil does not fit tightly on the spark plug, this may cause misfires.

3. Mechanical problems

Less often, but still there are cases when P1320 appears due to:

• 🔧 Camshaft wear - especially on engines with high mileage (200,000+ km).
• 🔗 Timing chain stretch — leads to a shift in valve timing.
• 🔥 Problems with the piston group - low compression in the cylinders can indirectly affect the operation of the ignition.

How to Diagnose Error P1320: Step-by-Step Instructions

Diagnostics P1320 on Nissan Sunny requires a systematic approach. Start with the simplest checks and gradually move on to more complex ones. You will need:

• 🔧 Multimeter (to check coil resistance and sensor voltage)
• 🔍 Diagnostic scanner (for example, ELM327 or Launch CReader)
• 🛠️ Set of socket wrenches (for removing coils and sensors)
• 📖 Service manual for your model Nissan Sunny (to check timing marks)

Step 1: Read the complete list of errors

Connect the diagnostic scanner and write down all trouble codes. Often P1320 accompanied by other errors, for example:

• P0300 - random misfires
• P0340 — malfunction of the camshaft position sensor
• P0335 — malfunction of the crankshaft position sensor

If together with P1320 There is P0335 or P0340, start diagnosing by checking the relevant sensors.

Step 2: Check the ignition coils

On Nissan Sunny with the system COP coils can be checked without dismantling:

1. Start the engine and let it idle.
2. Disconnect the coil connectors one by one (one at a time). If, after disconnecting the coil, the engine starts to work even worse, the coil is working. If there are no changes, the coil is faulty.

Also measure the resistance of the primary and secondary windings of the coil with a multimeter:

Step 3: Check CKP and CMP Sensors

To check the crankshaft position sensor (CKP):

1. Remove the connector from the sensor.
2. Measure the resistance between the sensor contacts - it should be within 500–700 Ohm.
3. Check the voltage at the connector with the ignition on (without starting the engine) - it should be 12 V between the positive wire and ground.

For camshaft sensor (CMP) resistance should be 800–1200 Ohm.

Read all errors with a scanner|Check the ignition coils for resistance|Inspect the CKP and CMP sensors|Ring the wiring circuits|Check the timing marks-->

Common repair mistakes and how to avoid them

Many owners Nissan Sunny are faced with the fact that after eliminating P1320 the error returns after some time. This happens due to typical repair mistakes. Let's look at the most common of them.

1. Replacing only one ignition coil

If one coil is worn out, chances are the others are worn out too. On Nissan Sunny With a mileage of more than 150,000 km, it is recommended to change the coils as a set, even if only one is faulty. Otherwise, after 10–20 thousand km the error will return.

2. Ignoring the condition of the spark plugs

Worn or poor quality spark plugs can cause misfires, which the ECU interprets as an error. P1320. Always check spark plugs when diagnosing:

• 🔥 The gap between the electrodes must be 0.8–1.1 mm.
• 🛠️ Soot on the candles indicates a rich or lean mixture.
• ⚡ Cracks on the insulator are a sign of breakdown.

3. Incorrect installation of timing marks

If you removed the timing belt or chain, be sure to check that the marks match. On Nissan Sunny with engine GA16DE The labels must match as follows:

• 🔄 The mark on the crankshaft pulley is with the mark on the cylinder block.
• 🔄 The mark on the camshaft sprocket is with a recess on the rear timing cover.

If the labels do not match, an error P1320 will appear even after replacing the sensors.

4. Saving on sensors

Crankshaft and camshaft position sensors are not parts you should skimp on. Non-original sensors (especially those made in China) often give incorrect signals, which leads to false alarms P1320. Optimal options:

• 🔧 Original sensors Nissan (articles: 23731-4M000 for CKP, 23731-AL500 for CMP).
• 🔧 High-quality analogues from Denso or Hitachi.

How to fix error P1320: from simple to complex

Depending on the cause, solutions P1320 on Nissan Sunny can range from basic to labor intensive. Let's start with the simplest solutions.

1. Cleaning contacts and connectors

Oxidation or contamination of contacts is one of the most common causes of false alarms. P1320. Carry out the following manipulations:

1. Disconnect the battery (negative terminal first!).
2. Remove the connectors from the ignition coils, CKP and CMP sensors.
3. Clean the contacts with a special liquid (for example, CRC Contact Cleaner) or alcohol.
4. Check the wires for chafing or melting.

2. Replacing spark plugs

If the spark plugs have not been changed for more than 30,000 km, replacing them may solve the problem. For Nissan Sunny The following candles are recommended:

3. Replacing ignition coils

If the check shows that the coil is faulty, it must be replaced. On Nissan Sunny with the system COP replacement is performed as follows:

1. Disconnect the battery.
2. Remove the decorative engine cover.
3. Disconnect the coil connector.
4. Unscrew the coil mounting bolt (usually 10 mm).
5. Carefully remove the spool by rocking it from side to side.
6. Install the new coil and reassemble everything in reverse order.

After replacement, reset the errors with a scanner and check the operation of the engine.

4. Checking and replacing CKP and CMP sensors

If the sensors are faulty, they must be replaced. On Nissan Sunny crankshaft sensor (CKP) is located next to the crankshaft pulley, and the camshaft sensor (CMP) - on the cylinder head. When replacing:

• 🔧 Use a torque wrench to tighten the bolts (tightening torque: 8–10 Nm).
• 📏 Make sure the gap between the sensor and the gear is 0.5–1.0 mm.

5. Checking timing marks

If the error P1320 appeared after replacing the timing belt or chain; most likely, the marks were installed incorrectly. To check:

1. Remove the upper timing case cover.
2. Turn the crankshaft clockwise until the marks align.
3. Make sure the mark on the camshaft also matches the mark on the housing.

If the marks do not match, the timing belt/chain will need to be reinstalled.

Prevention of error P1320 on Nissan Sunny

To avoid reappearance P1320, follow these guidelines:

• 🔧 Regularly (every 30,000 km) check the condition of the spark plugs and coils.
• 🛠️ Use only high-quality fuel (octane rating not lower than 92).
• 📊 Monitor the condition of high-voltage wires (if your model has them).
• 🔋 Check the battery voltage - a low charge can cause the ECU to malfunction.
• 🚗 Regularly (every 100,000 km) check the condition of the timing belt/chain and marks.

Pay special attention to protecting the sensors from moisture and dirt. On Nissan Sunny sensor CKP often suffers from water ingress (for example, when washing the engine or driving through puddles). To avoid this, you can:

• 🛡️ Apply silicone grease to the sensor connector.
• 🔧 Install an additional protective cover (if the design allows).

Frequently asked questions (FAQ)

1. Отключите минусовую клемму аккумулятора.
2. Нажмите на педаль тормоза на 10–15 секунд (для разряда конденсаторов в ЭБУ).
3. Подключите клемму обратно.
4. Заведите двигатель и дайте ему поработать 5–10 минут на холостых.