If on your dashboard Nissan Sunny (especially models N14, N15, N16 with engines GA14DE, GA16DE or SR20DE) the indicator came on Check Engine, and the scanner gives an error P1320 — Ignition Signal Primary, this is a signal of problems in the ignition system. This code indicates a malfunction in the primary circuit of the ignition coil, but its interpretation depends on the specific modification of the car and the year of manufacture.

Unlike common errors like P0300 (misfires), P1320 often associated with electronic control unit (ECU) or wiring, and not with mechanical failures. Owners Sunny They encounter it after replacing spark plugs, high-voltage wires, or even a banal wash under the hood. In this article we will analyze all possible reasons, diagnostic methods (including multimeter And oscilloscope), and we will also give step-by-step repair instructions - from simple checks to replacing the ECU.

What does error P1320 mean on Nissan Sunny

Code P1320 in Nissan Sunny stands for "Ignition Signal Primary" — a problem in the primary circuit of the ignition system. Unlike universal OBD-II codes, this one is manufacturer-specific and may have different meanings depending on the ECU model:

  • 🔧 For ECU with marking HITACHI (early models N14-N15): The error indicates that there is no signal from the crankshaft position sensor (CKP) or camshaft (CMP) when the engine starts.
  • ⚡ For ECU Nissan Consult (late N16): problem in the ignition coil control circuit (open circuit, short circuit or faulty transistor in the unit).
  • 🔌 For vehicles with DIS (Distributorless Ignition System): a malfunction in the ignition module or its connectors.

Important: on some versions Sunny (for example, with an engine SR20DE) code P1320 may be accompanied P0320 (knock sensor malfunction) or P0340 (camshaft sensor). This makes diagnosis difficult because the problems may be related.

📊 What engine is installed in your Nissan Sunny?
  • GA14DE/GA16DE (1.4/1.6 l)
  • SR20DE (2.0 L)
  • QG18DE (1.8 l)
  • Other

The main reasons for the appearance of P1320

Error P1320 Rarely occurs on its own and is usually preceded by other symptoms: engine tripping, difficult starting or loss of power. Here are the key reasons, ranked by frequency of occurrence:

Reason Frequency (%) Symptoms
Ignition coil malfunction 40% Misfires, error appears on a hot engine
Wiring problems (break, oxidation) 25% The error occurs periodically, depending on humidity
ECU malfunction (burnt-out transistor) 20% Multiple errors, engine stalls
Crankshaft Position (CKP) Sensor 10% The engine does not start or runs erratically
Poor contact in connectors 5% The error disappears after cleaning the contacts

Particular attention should be paid ignition coils. On Nissan Sunny N16 with the system DIS often fails ignition module (installed on the valve cover). Its malfunction can be determined by the following signs:

  • 🔥 The spark disappears on 2-3 cylinders at the same time (for example, 1 and 4 or 2 and 3).
  • 📉 Error P1320 appears only at high speeds or under load.
  • 💧 Cracks or signs of overheating are visible on the module body.
⚠️ Attention: If the error P1320 accompanied by P0300 (random misfire), check first high voltage wires And candles. On Sunny N14 With a mileage of more than 150 thousand km, the wires often wear out, which leads to false alarms of the sensors.

How to diagnose P1320: step-by-step instructions

For an accurate diagnosis you will need: OBD-II scanner (For example, ELM327), multimeter, oscilloscope (optional) and screwdriver. Follow this algorithm:

1. Read all errors by the scanner (including pending-codes)

2. Visually inspect coils, wires and connectors

3. Check the resistance of the coils with a multimeter

4. Measure the voltage at the ECU connector (pin 105)

5. Check the signal from the crankshaft sensor with an oscilloscope -->

Step 1: Reading Errors

Connect the scanner to the connector OBD-II (located under the steering wheel, to the left of the brake pedal). Except P1320 please note:

  • 🔍 P0320/P0325 - knock sensor.
  • 🔍 P0340 — camshaft sensor.
  • 🔍 P0301-P0304 - misfire in a specific cylinder.

Step 2. Checking the ignition coils

On Nissan Sunny N16 with the system DIS:

  1. Remove the coils (unscrew the 2 10mm bolts).
  2. Measure the resistance between the contacts 1-2 (primary winding) - should be 0.5–1.0 Ohm.
  3. Measure the resistance between 2-3 (secondary winding) - should be 8–12 kOhm.

Deviations indicate a coil malfunction.

Step 3. Checking wiring and connectors

Pay special attention to:

  • 🔌 Ignition coil connector (contacts A And B - power supply +12V and ground).
  • 🔌 ECU connector (contact 105 - signal from the coil).
  • 🔌 Wires from the crankshaft sensor to the ECU (often rub against the intake manifold).
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If you don't have a multimeter, you can temporarily swap the coils. If the error goes to another cylinder, the coil is to blame.

How to fix error P1320: from simple to complex

The solution depends on the reason. Let's start with the simplest and cheapest methods:

1. Cleaning contacts and connectors

Oxidation or corrosion of contacts is a common cause. P1320 on Sunny with mileage over 10 years. Proceed like this:

  • 🧹 Remove the connector from the ignition coil and clean the contacts WD-40 or contact lubricant.
  • 🔧 Check the ECU connector (located under the glove compartment) - contact 105 often oxidizes.
  • 🔄 Reconnect the battery for 10 minutes to reset the ECU adaptations.

2. Replacing the ignition coil

If the coil resistance is not correct or cracks are visible, replacement is required. For Nissan Sunny N16 fit original coils:

  • 📌 22448-4M000 (Hitachi) - for engines GA16DE.
  • 📌 22448-5M000 - for SR20DE.

The cost of the original is from 3,000 rubles, analogues (Beru, Bosch) - from 1,500 rub. After replacement, be sure to reset the errors with the scanner!

3. Repair or replace ECU

If all the previous steps did not help, the problem may be electronic control unit. On Sunny N14-N15 The transistor in the coil control circuit often fails. Options:

  • 🔧 Resolder the transistor (if you have soldering skills).
  • 🔄 Install a used ECU from the same car (check compatibility by VIN).
  • 💻 Reflash the block (relevant for Nissan Consult II).
⚠️ Attention: When replacing the ECU you will need immobilizer adaptation (otherwise the engine will not start). On Sunny N16 for this you need Nissan Consult III or specialized software like Nissanscan.
What should I do if the engine does not start after replacing the ECU?

If the engine does not start after replacing the unit, check:

1. Correct connection of connectors (contact 105 should go to the coil).

2. ECU firmware compatibility with your model (on Sunny N15 there are versions for GA14DE And GA16DE).

3. Presence of an immobilizer - if the key is not recognized, the indicator will light up SECURITY on the panel.

In 80% of cases, the problem is solved by flashing the immo or adapting the key.

Common repair mistakes and how to avoid them

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

  • 🚫 Ignore weight check. Poor ground on the engine or body leads to unstable operation of the coils. Check the wire from the battery to the body (should be less than 0.1 Ohm).
  • 🚫 Install incompatible coils. For example, coils from Nissan Almera N16 They are similar in appearance, but have different resistance.
  • 🚫 Do not reset ECU adaptations. After replacing coils or wiring, the unit must be “trained” again (for example, using Nissan DataScan).

Another common problem is mixing up high voltage wires. On Sunny N14 with distributor connection order: 1-3-4-2 (clockwise). On N16 with the system DIS the wires go directly to the spark plugs, but their lengths are different - do not mix them up!

Case study: owner Sunny N15 after replacing the coils I encountered an error P1320 appeared on another cylinder. The reason is that he did not clean the contacts in the ECU connector, which is why the signal was noisy.

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Always check the resistance of the new parts before replacing coils. Even original spare parts may be defective from the factory!

Prevention: How to prevent P1320 from coming back

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

  • 🔧 Every 30,000 km check the condition of spark plugs and high-voltage wires. On Sunny with mileage >100 thousand km it is better to use iridium spark plugs (For example, NGK IFR6A11).
  • 🚿 Avoid washing the engine under high pressure - water gets into the coil connectors.
  • 🔋 Check the voltage of the on-board network. If it is lower 11.5V, The ECU may not control the ignition correctly.
  • 🛠️ Once a year, clean the contacts in the ECU and coil connectors with special lubricant (for example, Liqui Moly Electronic-Spray).

On vehicles with the system DIS (without distributor) pay special attention ignition module. Its service life is about 150,000 km, after which replacement is recommended, even if there are no errors. Signs of wear:

  • 🔥 The engine “adjusts” when cold.
  • ⚡ When you press the gas sharply, jerks are felt.
  • 📉 Fuel consumption increases by 10–15%.

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:

  • 🔥 Overheating of the catalyst (due to unburned fuel).
  • 💥 Detonation in the cylinders (risk of damage to the pistons).
  • ⚡ Complete failure of the ignition coil.

If the error appears only at high speeds, you can drive to a service station, but do not load the engine.

How much does it cost to repair a P1320 at a service center?

The cost depends on the reason:

Type of repair Cost (RUB)
Diagnostics (scanner + multimeter) 1 000–1 500
Replacing the ignition coil (1 pc.) 2,000–4,000 (with spare part)
ECU repair/replacement 5 000–15 000
Replacement of high-voltage wires (set) 1 500–3 000

In regions, prices may be 20–30% lower. Do-it-yourself repairs will be cheaper, but require skills in working with a multimeter.

Can P1320 be caused by bad gas?

No, P1320 not related to fuel quality. However, bad gasoline can cause:

  • 🔥 Bugs P0300 (misfire).
  • 💣 Detonation, which will damage the knock sensor (P0325).

If errors occur after refueling, drain the fuel and flush the fuel system.

How to reset error P1320 without a scanner?

On Nissan Sunny You can reset errors in two ways:

  1. Disconnecting the battery:
    1. Remove the terminal "+"with battery.
    2. Press the brake pedal for 10 seconds (discharges ECU capacitors).
    3. Reconnect the terminal.
  2. Three pedal method (for older models): 
    1. Поверните ключ в положение ON (не заводите).

    2. В течение 5 секунд нажмите педаль газа до упора 5 раз.
    

    3. Подождите 7 секунд, затем нажмите педаль газа до упора и удерживайте 10 секунд.
    

    4. Отпустите педаль и заведите двигатель.

These methods reset all errors, and not just P1320. If the cause is not resolved, the code will appear again.

What analogue ignition coils are suitable for Sunny N16?

For Nissan Sunny N16 with engines GA16DE And SR20DE The following analogues are suitable:

Manufacturer Article Notes
Beru 0 221 504 009 Suitable for GA16DE, resource ~100,000 km
Bosch 0 221 504 015 Universal, may require modification of the connector
Denso 550-0103 Original quality, but more expensive than analogues
NGK U5007 Good option for SR20DE

Before purchasing, check the resistance of the windings with the original!