Error P1220 on Nissan: decoding, causes and repairs

Error code P1220 on cars Nissan - one of the most common problems associated with the fuel injection system. It may appear on models Qashqai, X-Trail, Juke, Murano and others equipped with electronically controlled gasoline engines. Most often, the error is recorded during diagnostics through OBD-II and is accompanied by symptoms such as loss of power, unstable engine operation, or even a transition to emergency mode.

Unlike many other codes, P1220 does not always indicate a serious breakdown - sometimes it is caused by a simple malfunction of the sensors or contamination of the fuel system. However, it cannot be ignored: long-term driving with this error can lead to increased fuel consumption, damage to the catalyst, or even failure of the injectors. In this article we will look at what exactly it means P1220, how to correctly diagnose it and what steps to take to eliminate it - from simple checks to complex repairs.

What does error P1220 mean on Nissan?

Code P1220 in the diagnostic system Nissan stands for "Fuel system control circuit malfunction" (English) Fuel Pump Relay Control Circuit Malfunction). In most cases, it signals problems with fuel pump relay, but may also indicate:

• 🔧 Malfunction of the fuel pump itself (wear, jamming, low pressure).
• ⚡ Electrical wiring problems (breaks, short circuits, oxidation of contacts).
• 📉 Computer malfunctions (incorrect signals to the relay or pump).
• ⛽ Fuel system contamination (filters, fuel pump mesh, injectors).

It is important to understand that P1220 - this is general code, and its exact interpretation depends on the model Nissan and year of manufacture. For example, on Qashqai J10 (2007–2013) it is more often associated with relays, and on X-Trail T31 (2007–2014) - with wiring to the fuel pump. Additional diagnostics will be required to accurately determine the cause.

The error can appear either constantly or periodically - for example, during a cold start or after refueling with low-quality fuel. In some cases it is accompanied by other codes such as P0171 (lean mixture) or P0300 (misfire), which complicates diagnosis.

The main symptoms of error P1220

Code P1220 rarely appears “on its own” - it is usually accompanied by noticeable changes in the operation of the car. Here are the most typical signs:

• 🚗 The engine doesn't start well (especially “in the cold” or after a long stay).
• 💨 Dips during acceleration — the car “stumbles” or jerks.
• ⚠️ Check Engine Lights On and Off (sometimes the error disappears after restarting the engine).
• ⛽ Increased fuel consumption (10–20% higher than usual).
• 🔊 Unusual sounds from the gas tank (pump hum or grinding noise).

On some models Nissan (For example, Juke F15) the error can only appear under high loads - for example, when overtaking or climbing a hill. In this case, the engine suddenly loses power and the dashboard lights up. Check Engine.

⚠️ Attention: If the error P1220 accompanied by strong smell of gasoline from under the hood or gas tank, stop the car immediately! This may indicate a fuel leak or a short circuit in the pump circuit - risk of fire!

In rare cases, the error does not affect driving performance, but this does not mean that it can be ignored. Even if the car drives normally, P1220 may lead to:

• 🔥 Fuel pump overheating (due to increased load).
• 🛢️ Accelerated wear of the fuel system (nozzles, filters).
• 💻 ECU malfunctions (due to incorrect signals from sensors).

Reasons for error P1220

To effectively eliminate P1220, you need to understand its root cause. The most likely scenarios are listed below, from simple to complex.

1. Problems with the fuel pump relay

The relay is responsible for supplying voltage to the fuel pump. If it fails, the pump either does not turn on at all or operates unstable. Signs:

• 🔊 Clicking sounds from the fuse box (the relay “rattles”).
• ⚡ The pump does not hum when the ignition is turned on.
• 🔄 The error disappears after replacing the relay (temporary solution).

2. Fuel pump malfunction

Average service life of a fuel pump Nissan — 150–200 thousand km. Over time, it wears out, loses performance, or becomes jammed. Typical symptoms:

• 🛑 The engine stalls while driving (especially when the fuel level is low).
• ⛽ Fuel pressure below normal (checked with a pressure gauge).
• 🔧 The pump does not pump gasoline when directly connected to 12V.

3. Wiring problems

Contact oxidation, breaks or short circuits in the fuel pump circuit are a common cause. P1220. Particularly vulnerable:

• 🔌 Connector on the fuel pump (in the tank).
• 📡 Wires from ECU to relay (often frayed).
• ⚡ Ground wire (poor contact with the body).

4. Fuel system contamination

Low-quality fuel, infrequent filter changes or corrosion in the tank lead to clogging:

• 🧹 Fuel pump screens (clogs with dirt).
• 🔄 Fuel filter (stops passing gasoline).
• ⛽ Injectors (improper fuel atomization).

5. ECU failures

Less commonly, the error occurs due to incorrect operation of the electronic control unit. This may be due to:

• 💻 Firmware errors (for example, after chip tuning).
• 🔌 Poor contact of ECU connectors.
• 📉 Malfunction of the unit itself (requires diagnostics with a scanner).

Reason	Probability (%)	Difficulty in eliminating	Repair cost (₽)
Fuel pump relay	30%	Low	300–800
Fuel pump (wear)	25%	Average	5 000–12 000
Wiring/pins	20%	Average	1 000–3 000
Fuel system contamination	15%	Low/medium	1 500–5 000
ECU failures	10%	High	3 000–20 000

How to diagnose error P1220 yourself

Before going to the service center, you can carry out preliminary diagnostics on your own. For this you will need:

• 🔧 Multimeter (to check voltage).
• 🔍 OBD-II scanner (For example, ELM327).
• 🛠️ Screwdriver and pliers (for access to relay and pump).

Verification algorithm:

1. Count all errors.
   

   Connect the scanner and check if there is any P1220 other codes (for example, P0171 or P0300). This will help narrow down your search.

2. Check the fuel pump relay.
   

   It is usually located in the fuse box under the hood or in the passenger compartment. Swap it with a similar one (for example, a fan relay) and see if the error goes away.

3. Measure the voltage at the fuel pump.
   

   Remove the back seat, get to the fuel pump hatch and check the voltage at the connector when you turn on the ignition (there should be 12V).

4. Listen to the pump operation.
   

   When the ignition is turned on, a short hum of the pump should be heard (2-3 seconds). If it is not there, the problem is in the power supply or the pump itself.

5. Check fuel pressure.
   

   Connect a pressure gauge to the fuel rail (standard for most Nissan: 3–4 bar at idle).

⚠️ Attention: If, when checking the voltage at the fuel pump connector, you find short circuit (sparks, burning smell), disconnect the battery immediately! Further diagnostics require professional equipment.

If after all checks the cause remains unclear, pay attention to:

• 📊 Error logs in the ECU (you need a diagnostic scanner with support Nissan Consult).
• 🔧 Fuel injector condition (may require cleaning or replacement).
• ⛽ Fuel quality (try refueling at another gas station).

How to resolve error P1220: step-by-step instructions

The method of repair depends on the identified cause. Below are detailed instructions for each case.

1. Replacing the fuel pump relay

The simplest and cheapest option. The relay costs from 300 to 800 ₽ and changes in 5 minutes:

1. Open the fuse box (location indicated in the owner's manual).
2. Locate the fuel pump relay (usually labeled Fuel Pump Relay).
3. Remove the old relay and install a new one (preferably the original Nissan or a high-quality analogue).
4. Reset the error using the scanner and check the engine operation.

2. Cleaning or replacing the fuel pump

If the pump does not pump fuel or operates intermittently:

1. Remove the rear seat and open the fuel pump flap.
2. Disconnect the power connector and fuel hoses (prepare a rag in advance - gasoline may spill!).
3. Remove the pump and check the condition of the filter screen. If clogged, clean or replace.
4. Check the operation of the pump by applying 12V from the battery (should confidently pump gasoline).
5. If the pump is faulty, replace it with a new one (original or analogue, for example, Bosch or Denso).

3. Wiring repair

If the problem is broken or oxidized contacts:

1. Test the circuit from the relay to the fuel pump with a multimeter (the resistance should be close to 0 ohm).
2. Clean the oxidized contacts on the connectors (use a special liquid or sandpaper).
3. If a break is detected, restore the circuit by soldering or replacing the harness.
4. Check the ground wire (it must be securely screwed to the body).

4. Cleaning the fuel system

If the error is caused by contamination:

1. Replace the fuel filter (location varies by model, but usually under the belly or in the engine compartment).
2. Wash the fuel rail and injectors with a special liquid (for example, Liqui Moly or Wynn's).
3. Add injector cleaner to the tank (for example, BG 44K) and drive 50–100 km.

5. Diagnostics and flashing of the ECU

If the error is related to a malfunction in the electronic unit:

1. Connect a diagnostic scanner with support Nissan Consult and check the error logs.
2. Update the ECU firmware (if an official update is available).
3. If the unit is faulty, it may need to be repaired or replaced (expensive, but sometimes unavoidable).

Common repair mistakes and how to avoid them

Many car owners Nissan make the same mistakes when eliminating P1220, which leads to the recurrence of the problem or new breakdowns. That's what can't do:

• 🚫 Ignore other errors.
  

  If in addition P1220 there is, for example, P0171 (lean mixture), you first need to eliminate its cause - otherwise the problem will return.

• 🚫 Install a non-original relay.
  

  Cheap Chinese relays often fail after 1–2 months. It is better to take the original or proven brands (Hella, Bosch).

• 🚫 Do not check fuel pressure.
  

  Even if the pump is humming, it may not be producing the required pressure. Always use a pressure gauge!

• 🚫 Forgetting to reset the error.
  

  After repair, be sure to reset P1220 scanner or disconnecting the battery (otherwise it may “hang” in the ECU memory).

• 🚫 Use aggressive cleaners.
  

  Some “miracle” injector cleaning products can damage the rubber injector seals.

Another common mistake is incorrect assembly after replacing the pump. For example, if you forget to install the o-ring on the gas tank flap, the smell of gasoline will penetrate into the cabin, and the pump will work intermittently.

⚠️ Attention: If after replacing the fuel pump an error P1220 left, check connection polarity! Some pumps are sensitive to incorrect plus/minus connections.

Also not worth it:

• 🔧 Trying to repair the pump, if it is clearly worn out (for example, broken blades).
• ⚡ Connect the pump directly to the battery Without a fuse there is a risk of fire!
• 💻 Reset ECU adaptations unnecessarily (this may impair engine performance).

Preventing error P1220

To avoid reappearance P1220, follow these guidelines:

• ⛽ Refuel at proven gas stations.
  

  Low-quality fuel with impurities quickly clogs filters and injectors.

• 🔧 Change the fuel filter every 30–40 thousand km.
  

  On Nissan with a mileage of >100 thousand km, it is better to change the filter more often.

• 💧 Use additives to clean the injector.
  

  For example, Liqui Moly Injection Reiniger or Wynn's Injector Cleaner (1 time every 10 thousand km).

• 🔋 Monitor the on-board network voltage.
  

  If the battery is low or the alternator is not charging enough, the pump is overloaded.

• 🚗 Don't drive with an almost empty tank.
  

  The fuel pump is cooled by fuel, and when the level is low it overheats.

Also useful:

• 📅 Check the fuel pump relay at every maintenance (especially on cars older than 5 years).
• 🔍 Diagnose the ECU once every 2 years (especially after chip tuning).
• 🛠️ Clean the ground wire contacts (oxidation impairs pump performance).

What should I do if error P1220 appears after washing the engine?

If the error occurs after washing under the hood, most likely water got into the fuel pump or relay connector. It is necessary to dry the contacts (you can use a hairdryer) and treat them with a special lubricant (for example, Kontakt 60). If the problem persists, check the circuit for a short circuit.

FAQ: Frequently asked questions about error P1220

Is it possible to drive with error code P1220?

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

• 🔥 Overheating and failure of the fuel pump.
• ⛽ Increased fuel consumption (up to 20%).
• 💥 Damage to the catalyst (due to incorrect fuel mixture).

If the error appears for the first time, you can drive to your home or service center, but do not put off repairs for too long.

How much does it cost to fix error P1220 in the service?

The cost depends on the reason:

• 🔧 Relay replacement: 500–1 500 ₽ (with work).
• ⛽ Cleaning the fuel pump: 2 000–4 000 ₽.
• 🔄 Replacing the fuel pump: 8 000–15 000 ₽ (including work).
• 💻 ECU diagnostics: 1 500–5 000 ₽.

On average, repairs cost 3 000–10 000 ₽, but if the problem is in the wiring or ECU, the price may increase.

Could P1220 be caused by bad fuel?

Yes, and this is one of the most common reasons. Low-quality fuel with impurities clogs:

• 🧹 Fuel pump grid.
• 🔄 Fuel filter.
• ⛽ Injectors.

If the error appears immediately after refueling, try:

1. Add high-quality gasoline (for example, AI-98).
2. Add injector cleaner.
3. Drive 50–100 km at high speeds (to “burn through” deposits).

How to reset error P1220 without a scanner?

There are two ways:

1. Disconnecting the battery:
   

   Remove the terminal from the battery for 10–15 minutes. This will clear all errors, but will also reset the ECU settings (throttle adaptation may be required).

2. Reset via fuse:
   

   On some models Nissan You can reset the errors by removing the fuse ECU for 1–2 minutes (check the fuse number in the manual).

However, these methods will not eliminate the cause of the error; it will return if the problem is not resolved.

What fuel pump analogues are suitable for Nissan?

For most models Nissan (Qashqai, X-Trail, Juke) suitable pumps:

• Bosch 0 580 454 035 (original number 17040-JM00A).
• Denso 950-0101 (for engines MR20DE, QR25DE).
• AIRTEX E2393M (budget option).

When choosing, pay attention to:

• 🔧 Performance (must match the original).
• 📏 Dimensions and fastenings (some analogues require improvement).
• ⚡ Voltage (usually 12V, but there are exceptions).