Error with code 1320 on Nissan Primera P12 (2002–2008) is one of the most common problems faced by owners of this model. It signals a malfunction in the engine management system, but its exact cause often remains a mystery even to experienced car owners. Unlike obvious errors like P0300 (misfire), code 1320 can indicate both minor electronic failures and serious problems with sensors or wiring.

In this article we will look at what exactly is hidden behind the error. 1320, how to correctly diagnose it without expensive equipment, and what steps to take to eliminate it. We will pay special attention Primera P12 with engines QR20DE And QR25DE, since this code is found on them most often. If your car catches fire or goes into emergency mode, do not rush to go to a service station - many reasons can be identified and corrected yourself.

What does error 1320 mean on Nissan Primera P12?

Code 1320 in the diagnostic system Nissan belongs to the category general ECU errors (electronic control unit). Unlike standard OBD-II codes (eg. P0100), which are unified for all brands, this code is productive and may have different meanings depending on the model and year of manufacture. For Primera P12 error 1320 most often deciphered as:

  • 🔌 Crankshaft Position (CKP) Sensor Circuit Malfunction or its signal;
  • 📶 Synchronization failure between the ECU and the immobilizer (especially relevant for cars with NAT-immobilizer);
  • ⚡ Problems with power supply or ground of the ECU (for example, oxidized contacts);
  • 🔧 ECU firmware incompatibility after chip tuning or block replacement.

It is important to understand that 1320 - this is not a direct indication of a breakdown, but rather non-conformity signal between expected and actual data in the system. For example, the ECU may “see” that the crankshaft is rotating, but does not receive the correct signal about its position, which leads to an error. In some cases the code appears false - due to a temporary failure or poor contact.

📊 How often do you get error 1320?
  • Constantly on
  • Appears periodically
  • Only at cold start
  • After washing or rain
  • Another option

The main causes of error 1320

To effectively resolve an error, you need to understand its root causes. For Nissan Primera P12 they can be divided into three groups: electric, mechanical And software. Let's look at each in more detail.

1. Problems with the crankshaft position (CKP) sensor

The CKP sensor is one of the key elements of the engine management system. On Primera P12 it is located next to the crankshaft pulley and often suffers from:

  • 🧲 Contamination with metal shavings (especially if renovations have recently been carried out);
  • 🔌 Break or short circuit in the wiring (frayed wires near the exhaust manifold);
  • 🌡️ Overheatingleading to sensor failure.

If the CKP malfunctions, the ECU cannot accurately determine the moment of fuel and spark supply, which leads to an error 1320 and unstable engine operation.

2. Immobilizer or key malfunctions

Nissan Primera P12 equipped with a system NAT (Nissan Anti-Theft), which sometimes conflicts with the ECU. Error 1320 may appear if:

  • 🔑 Ignition key not recognized immobilizer (wear of the chip or antenna around the lock);
  • 🔄 Happened factory reset immobilizer (for example, after disconnecting the battery);
  • 📱 The ECU “forgot” the keys (retraining required).
💡

If error 1320 appears only when using one of the keys, try starting the engine with the second one. If the problem disappears, the chip in the first key is faulty.

3. Problems with the ECU or its firmware

Electronic control unit (ECU) on Primera P12 sensitive to:

  • ⚡ Power surges (for example, when “lighting” from another car);
  • 💻 Incorrect firmware after chip tuning;
  • 🔌 Bad contact in connectors (oxidation, moisture).

In 80% of cases, error 1320 after chip tuning is eliminated by flashing the ECU to the stock version or by updating the software.

Reason Symptoms Verification method
Faulty CKP sensor The engine stalls, does not start well, the error appears when warming up Test the circuit with a multimeter, check the signal with an oscilloscope
Immobilizer problems An error occurs when turning the key, the engine does not start Try the second key, reset NAT settings
ECU firmware failure The error appeared after chip tuning or disconnecting the battery Read errors using a diagnostic scanner and reflash the ECU
Poor ground or power supply to the ECU The error appears periodically, especially in humid weather. Check the contacts on the ECU, clean the ground

How to diagnose error 1320 yourself

For accurate diagnosis, it is better to use a scanner that supports Nissan manufacturer codes (For example, Consult III+ or Launch X431). However, many owners Primera P12 successfully identify the problem without it. Here is a step-by-step algorithm:

Check if the error occurs when using the second key|

Inspect the CKP sensor for damage or contamination|

Test the sensor circuit with a multimeter (resistance should be 500–1000 Ohms)|

Check the ECU contacts for oxidation or moisture|

Reset the errors and see if they return after restarting the engine-->

Step 1: Immobilizer Check

If the error 1320 appears when turning the key, but the engine does not start:

  1. Try the second key. If the error disappears, the problem is in the first key chip.
  2. Check the immobilizer antenna around the ignition switch (contacts often oxidize).
  3. If the keys are not recognized, you may need to retraining (the procedure is described in the manual NAT).

Step 2: CKP Sensor Diagnosis

Crankshaft position sensor on Primera P12 located to the right of the cylinder block (on the gearbox side). To check:

  1. Remove the sensor and inspect it for cracks or corrosion.
  2. Test the winding with a multimeter: the resistance should be within 500–1000 Ohm.
  3. Check the sensor power supply (voltage 5 V between pins 1 and 2).
How to check the CKP sensor signal without an oscilloscope?

If you don't have an oscilloscope, you can use a simple test with a multimeter in AC mode. Connect the probes to the sensor contacts (usually 2 and 3), start the engine (or crank the starter) and observe the readings. A working sensor should produce an alternating voltage in the range of 0.3–1 V. The absence of a signal or its instability indicates a sensor malfunction or an open circuit.

Step 3: Checking the ECU and its connectors

Electronic control unit on Primera P12 located under the glove compartment (passenger side). To rule out problems with the ECU:

  1. Remove the unit cover and inspect the connectors for oxidation or moisture.
  2. Check that the ECU ground is securely fastened (often loosens over time).
  3. If you have recently disconnected the battery, perform reset adaptations (start the engine, let it idle for 10 minutes).
⚠️ Attention: If you suspect a faulty ECU, do not attempt to disassemble or solder it yourself. Inside the unit there are sensitive microcircuits that can be easily damaged by static electricity. It is better to contact an electronics specialist.

Step-by-step instructions for resolving error 1320

After diagnosis, you can begin repairs. Below are action algorithms for the most common causes of the error. 1320 on Nissan Primera P12.

1. Replacing or cleaning the CKP sensor

If the crankshaft position sensor is faulty or dirty:

  1. Remove the sensor by unscrewing one mounting bolt (key on 10 mm).
  2. Clean it of metal shavings and dirt (use WD-40 or alcohol).
  3. Check the gap between the sensor and the crankshaft pulley - it should be 0.5–1.5 mm.
  4. If the sensor is faulty, replace it with a new one (part number for Primera P12: 23731-AL500 or 23731-AL505).

2. Solving problems with the immobilizer

If the error is related to NAT- immobilizer:

  • 🔑 Try it retraining keys (instructions are in the service manual).
  • 🔧 Check the immobilizer antenna around the ignition switch - the contacts often oxidize.
  • 🔄 If resetting doesn't help, you may need to replacing the chip in the key or flashing the immobilizer.
💡

If, after retraining the keys, error 1320 disappeared, but later returned, the problem may be in a faulty NAT block. In this case, replacing the immobilizer unit with a used one (followed by retraining the keys) often helps.

3. Restoring the ECU after a failure

If the error appears after disconnecting the battery or chip tuning:

  1. Clear the errors with the scanner (or disconnect the battery for 10 minutes).
  2. Start the engine and let it idle 10–15 minutes for adaptation.
  3. If the error persists, try return stock firmware (refer to chip tuner).

In rare cases, the ECU may “fly off” due to a power surge. Then you will need it repair or replacement (article for Primera P12: 284B0-4M600 or 284B0-4M605).

⚠️ Attention: When replacing the ECU with a used unit, it must be “linked” to the immobilizer, otherwise the engine will not start. This procedure requires special equipment and is usually performed at a service station.

Common repair mistakes and how to avoid them

Many owners Nissan Primera P12 make typical mistakes when eliminating code 1320, which leads to a recurrence of the problem or worsening of the malfunction. Let's look at the most common of them.

1. Replacing the CKP sensor without checking the circuit

Often car owners immediately change the sensor without checking the wiring. It makes no sense if:

  • 🔌 Yes open or short circuit in the wiring harness;
  • 🔋 The sensor does not receive 5 V nutrition;
  • 🛠️ Contacts in the connector are oxidized.

Before replacing the sensor be sure to ring the chain from the ECU to the sensor.

2. Ignoring ECU mass

Poor mass is one of the most underestimated causes of error. 1320. On Primera P12 The ECU mass is attached to the body under the glove compartment. Over time, contact deteriorates due to:

  • 🔹 Corrosion;
  • 🔹 Loosening the bolt;
  • 🔹 Moisture ingress.

Solution: clean the place where the mass is attached, treat Lithol and tighten the bolt securely.

3. Self-firmware ECU

Attempts to reflash an ECU without experience often end in:

  • 💥 "Scorching" block (complete failure);
  • 🔄 The appearance of new errors;
  • 🚗 Incorrect engine operation.

If you need to update the firmware, contact a trusted chip tuner with experience with Nissan.

When can you not do without a service station?

Some faults causing the error 1320, cannot be eliminated in a garage environment. Contact the service station if:

  • 🔧 ECU does not respond for resetting errors and flashing;
  • 🔑 The immobilizer does not recognize none of the keys;
  • ⚡ There is a suspicion of an interturn short circuit in the wiring harness;
  • 🛠️ Required soldering or replacing elements on the ECU board.

At service stations for diagnostics Nissan Primera P12 usually used:

  • 📊 Consult III+ — official scanner for reading production codes;
  • 🔍 Oscilloscope - for checking sensor signals;
  • 💻 Specialized software - for flashing and adapting ECUs.

Average cost of diagnosing an error 1320 at the service station - 1500–3000 rubles. Repairing or replacing the ECU will cost 8000–20000 rubles (depending on the region).

Prevention of error 1320 on Nissan Primera P12

To minimize the risk of errors 1320, follow these guidelines:

Regularly clean the battery and ECU ground contacts|

Avoid high pressure engine washing|

Check the condition of the CKP sensor every 50,000 km|

Do not disconnect the battery for a long time (risk of resetting the ECU adaptations)|

Use high-quality fuel (bad gasoline accelerates wear of sensors) -->

Pay special attention electronics protection from moisture. On Primera P12 often suffer:

  • 🔌 ECU connectors (water ingress during washing);
  • 🔋 Battery contacts (oxidation);
  • 📶 Immobilizer antenna (corrosion).

If you often drive off-road or in rainy weather, it is recommended to treat the ECU and sensor connectors silicone grease (For example, CRC 2-26).

FAQ: Frequently asked questions about error 1320

Is it possible to drive with error 1320?

Short term - yes, but not recommended. Error 1320 may lead to:

  • 🔥 Increased fuel consumption;
  • 🚗 Unstable engine operation;
  • 💥 Risk of serious damage (for example, if the problem is with the CKP sensor).

If the error appears periodically, try to fix it as soon as possible.

Why does error 1320 only appear when it is cold?

This is a typical sign:

  • 🧊 CKP sensor malfunctions (when heated, the resistance changes and the error disappears);
  • 🔌 Bad contact in the connectors (when cooled, the metal contracts and contact disappears).

Check the sensor and circuit when the engine is cold.

Could error 1320 be caused by bad gasoline?

No, directly - no. However, low-quality fuel can:

  • 🛢️ Contaminate sensors (for example, CKP);
  • 🔥 Cause detonation that will damage electronics;
  • 🚗 Lead to misfires, which will trigger errors in the ECU.

If the error appears after refueling, try draining the fuel and refilling with high-quality gasoline.

How to reset error 1320 without a scanner?

There are two ways:

  1. Disable negative battery terminal for 10–15 minutes (this will reset the ECU adaptations).
  2. Execute reset procedure: 
    1. Включите зажигание (не запуская двигатель).

    2. Нажмите педаль газа до упора и удерживайте 5 секунд.
    

    3. Выключите зажигание, подождите 10 секунд.
    

    4. Заведите двигатель и дайте поработать 5 минут.

If the error returns, the problem is not resolved.

How much does it cost to replace the ECU on a Primera P12?

The cost depends on the type of block:

  • 🆕 New ECU: 20,000–40,000 rubles;
  • 🔄 Used ECU: 5,000–15,000 rubles (requires binding to the immobilizer);
  • 🛠️ ECU repair: 3,000–10,000 rubles (depending on the breakdown).

Additional payment may be required for firmware or adaptation (~2,000 rubles).