Error Code P1320 on Nissan Sunny: Complete Troubleshooting Guide

Nissan Sunny is a legendary car known for its reliability, but even it is not immune to problems with electronics. One of the most common mistakes faced by owners of models with engines GA16DE And SR20DE, is P1320. This code indicates a malfunction in the ignition system, but its interpretation often raises questions. Why does the error occur? How to diagnose it correctly? And most importantly, is it possible to fix the problem yourself without resorting to expensive repairs?

In this article we will look at P1320 in detail: from deciphering the code to step-by-step repair instructions. You will learn which components most often fail, how to check their functionality, and what mistakes car owners make when diagnosing. The material is based on the experience of service station technicians and manuals Nissan and owner reviews Sunny (including models N15 And N16).

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. Unlike universal OBD-II codes, this one is productive (vendor-specific) and is typical for cars Nissan And Infiniti. The error is recorded when the engine control unit (ECU) detects:

• 🔥 No signal from the crankshaft position sensor (CKP) at the time of launch.
• ⚡ Signal mismatch between the crankshaft and camshaft sensors (CMP).
• 🔌 Break or short circuit in the ignition coil circuit.
• 🛠️ Mechanical faults in the gas distribution system (for example, a stretched timing belt).

It is important to understand that P1320 - this is not a verdict, but a pointer to the area of the problem. In 60% of cases, faulty sensors or wiring are to blame, not the ECU. However, the error cannot be ignored: it can lead to misfires, increased fuel consumption and even catalyst failure.

In practice, owners Sunny often confused P1320 with other codes, for example, P0340 (camshaft sensor malfunction) or P0325 (problems with the knock sensor). To avoid diagnostic errors, always check associated codes using a scanner.

The main causes of P1320

Analysis of service data shows that the error P1320 on Nissan Sunny occurs for the following reasons (in descending order of frequency):

1. Crankshaft position (CKP) sensor malfunction - 45% of cases. The sensor may fail due to contamination, mechanical damage or corrosion of the contacts.
2. Problems with wiring or connectors — 30%. Oxidation of contacts, breaks or short circuits in the ignition sensor circuit.
3. Ignition coil malfunction — 15%. This is especially true for models with a system DIS (Distributorless Ignition System).
4. Timing belt/chain misalignment — 7%. For example, after unqualified repairs.
5. ECU malfunction — 3%. The rarest, but also the most expensive case to repair.

Interesting fact: on Sunny N15 with engine GA16DE error P1320 often appears after replacing the timing belt if the marks were set incorrectly. On N16 with SR20DE More often than not, sensors or coils are to blame.

⚠️ Attention: If the error P1320 accompanied by code P0335 (CKP sensor circuit malfunction), first check the continuity of the wiring from the sensor to ECU. In 80% of cases, the problem lies in broken or oxidized contacts.

How to diagnose P1320: step-by-step instructions

Diagnosis of the error P1320 requires a systematic approach. Start with a visual inspection and only then move on to a deep inspection. Here is the algorithm of actions:

Read all error codes with a scanner (for example, ELM327)

Check the integrity of the wiring of the CKP and CMP sensors

Inspect the ignition coils for cracks or melting.

Check the timing marks (remove the cover if necessary)

Measure the resistance of the CKP sensor (standard: 500–1000 Ohm) -->

For an accurate diagnosis you will need:

• 🔧 Multimeter (to check the resistance of sensors and circuits).
• 🔍 Diagnostic scanner (for example, Launch CReader or ELM327).
• 📖 Electrical diagram for your model Sunny (can be found in the manual or on Nissan Club).

Pay special attention to the sensor CKP. On Nissan Sunny it is located next to the crankshaft pulley. To check it:

1. Disconnect the sensor connector.
2. Measure the resistance between the contacts: normal value - 500–1000 Ohm.
3. Check the voltage at the connector with the ignition on (there should be 5 V between "+" and "–").

If the sensor is working, but the error remains, check the circuit from the sensor to ECU. Often the problem lies in oxidized contacts of the control unit (especially if the machine was operated in high humidity conditions).

Repair and replacement of components: what can you do yourself?

If diagnostics reveal a faulty component, it must be replaced or repaired. Let's look at the most common cases:

1. Replacing the crankshaft position (CKP) sensor

On Nissan Sunny N15/N16 sensor CKP secured with one bolt. To replace:

1. Disconnect the negative terminal of the battery.
2. Disconnect the sensor connector.
3. Unscrew the fastening bolt (usually on 10 mm).
4. Remove the sensor and install a new one (original part number for GA16DE — 23731-4M000).

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

2. Checking and replacing ignition coils

On models with the system DIS (For example, Sunny N16) ignition coils are a common cause P1320. Signs of malfunction:

• 🔥 Misfires on a cold engine.
• ⚡ Cracking or sparking during operation.
• 🛠️ Visible cracks on the body.

To check:

1. Measure the resistance of the primary winding (between contacts 1 and 2): norm - 0.5–1.0 Ohm.
2. Check the secondary winding (between high voltage terminal and pin 2): norm - 8–12 kOhm.

If the parameters are not correct, replace the coil. Original articles for SR20DE: 22448-4M000 (left) and 22448-4M001 (right).

3. Checking timing marks

If the error P1320 appeared after replacing the timing belt, most likely the marks were set incorrectly. On Nissan Sunny with engine GA16DE procedure:

1. Remove the upper timing case cover.
2. Check the alignment of the marks on the crankshaft pulley and the cylinder block.
3. Make sure the mark on the camshaft matches the mark on the rear cover.

If the marks are knocked down, the belt must be reinstalled. To do this, it is better to contact a specialist, since an error in setting can lead to a collision of pistons with valves.

What happens if you ignore P1320?

Long driving with error P1320 leads to:

- Increased wear of the catalyst (due to incomplete combustion of fuel).

- Engine overheating (improper ignition disrupts the thermal regime).

- Increased fuel consumption by 10–15%.

- Risk of failure ECU due to constant errors in the ignition circuit.

Resetting P1320: When does it work?

Many owners Nissan Sunny just trying to reset the error P1320 scanner without eliminating its cause. This is a temporary solution that only works in two cases:

1. The error was false (for example, due to a temporary failure in the sensor circuit).
2. The problem is fixed, but the code remains in memory ECU.

To reset the error:

1. Connect the diagnostic scanner to the connector OBD-II (located under the steering wheel).
2. Select function Clear DTC (delete error codes).
3. Start the engine and check if P1320 again.

If the error is returned, the problem is not resolved. In this case, a deeper diagnosis is required, including checking with an oscilloscope or replacing suspicious components.

⚠️ Attention: On some Nissan Sunny after resetting errors, a procedure may be required "throttle initialization". To do this:

1. Turn on the ignition (without starting the engine).
2. Wait 3 seconds.
3. Fully press and release the gas pedal 5 times.
4. Wait 7 seconds, then press the pedal all the way down and hold for 10 seconds.
5. Release the pedal and turn off the ignition.

This procedure resets adaptive settings ECU and helps to avoid floating speeds after resetting errors.

Cost of repairs: when to go to a service station, and when can you do it yourself?

Repair cost in case of error P1320 depends on the cause and region. The table below shows the approximate price list for Moscow and the regions (for 2026):

Type of work	Cost of spare parts (₽)	Cost of work (₽)	Difficulty (1–5)
Replacing the CKP sensor	1 200–2 500	500–1 000	2
Replacing the ignition coil	3,000–6,000 (per piece)	800–1 500	3
Wiring repair (soldering, replacement of connectors)	300–1 000	1 500–3 000	4
Replacing the timing belt with markings	2 000–4 000	3 000–5 000	5
Diagnostics at a service station (full)	—	1 500–2 500	—

Do-it-yourself repairs are worthwhile if you have experience working with car electronics. For example, replace the sensor CKP or you can do the ignition coil yourself, saving on work. However, to check ECU or wiring repairs, it is better to contact specialists - mistakes here can be more expensive.

Advice: if you decide to repair yourself, buy spare parts only from trusted suppliers. There are many fake sensors on the market CKP/CMP for Nissan, which fail after 1–2 months. Original spare parts can be checked by article number on the website Nissan Parts.

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The most common mistake when doing self-repair is incorrect installation of timing marks. If you are not confident in your abilities, entrust this work to professionals: the cost of correcting the consequences of a “crooked” repair can exceed 20,000 rubles.

Prevention of error P1320: how to avoid repeated problems?

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

• 🔧 Regularly (every 10,000 km) check the condition of the wiring and sensor connectors. Clean contacts from oxidation.
• 🛢️ Use high-quality fuel (octane number not lower than 92). Bad gasoline leads to detonation and accelerated wear of the ignition system.
• 🔄 Change the timing belt and rollers strictly according to the regulations (every 60,000–80,000 km).
• 🔋 Monitor the on-board network voltage. Voltage surges (eg due to a faulty alternator) can damage ECU.
• 📊 Conduct computer diagnostics once a year, even if there are no obvious signs of malfunction.

Pay special attention to protecting electronics from moisture. On Nissan Sunny block ECU is located under the glove compartment, and if water leaks (for example, due to a clogged air conditioner drain), it may fail. Check the condition of seals and drain pipes regularly.

If your Sunny often stands motionless, before long-term parking, disconnect the negative terminal of the battery. This will prevent battery discharge and reduce the risk of contact oxidation in sensor circuits.

FAQ: Frequently asked questions about error P1320 on Nissan Sunny

Is it possible to drive with error code P1320?

Short term - yes, but not recommended. The error indicates problems in the ignition system, which can lead to:

• Increased fuel consumption.
• Unstable engine operation (especially at idle).
• Damage to the catalyst due to incomplete combustion of fuel.

If the error appears for the first time, you can go to the service station, but it is better not to delay the repair.

How to distinguish a faulty CKP sensor from a problem with the ignition coil?

Main features:

• CKP sensor: The engine does not start at all or stalls immediately after starting. Error P1320 often accompanied P0335.
• Ignition coil: The engine is running rough, misfires are noticeable at idle. An error may appear P030X (where X is the cylinder number).

An accurate diagnosis is made after checking the resistance and signal oscillogram.

What should I do if, after replacing the CKP sensor, error P1320 remains?

Possible reasons:

1. The new sensor is faulty (defective or counterfeit).
2. The problem is in the wiring between the sensor and ECU.
3. Faulty itself ECU (rare, but possible).
4. The timing marks are knocked off.

Check the circuit with a multimeter and make sure there is 5 V with the ignition on.

Could P1320 be caused by bad fuel?

No, directly P1320 related to electronics, not fuel. However, bad gasoline can cause detonation, which indirectly affects the operation of sensors and ECU. If after refueling misfires and type errors appear P0300, try draining the fuel and refilling with quality fuel.

Where is the ECU located on Nissan Sunny N15/N16?

On most models Sunny block ECU located:

• N15 (1995–2000): under the glove compartment, behind the plastic panel.
• N16 (2000–2006): in the same place, but can be hidden under the carpet.

To access, remove the panel under the glove compartment (unscrew 2-3 screws).