Car owners Nissan often encounter an error P1320, which lights up on the dashboard and is accompanied by unstable engine operation. This trouble code is related to the ignition system and can indicate either minor problems or serious problems that require immediate attention. Unlike other errors, P1320 often appears on models with gasoline engines, including popular Qashqai, X-Trail, Juke And Note, but can also be found on other cars of the Japanese brand.

What is hidden behind this code? In most cases, the error indicates problems with ignition coils, candles or wiring, but sometimes it is caused by malfunctions ECU (electronic control unit). It is important to understand that ignoring P1320 can lead to deterioration in vehicle dynamics, increased fuel consumption and even failure of the catalytic converter. In this article we will analyze all the possible causes, diagnostic methods and ways to eliminate the error so that you can return your Nissan the same reliability.

What does error P1320 mean on Nissan?

Code P1320 in the diagnostic system Nissan stands for "Ignition Signal Primary". This means that ECU detected a malfunction in the primary circuit of the ignition coil or related components. Depending on the car model and year of manufacture, the error may have slightly different wording, but the essence remains the same: the problem is in the ignition system.

In practice P1320 manifests itself with the following symptoms:

  • 🔥 Misfires — the engine “troits”, especially at idle.
  • ⚡ Power Loss — the car accelerates poorly, a “failure” is felt when you press the gas pedal.
  • ⚠️ Check Engine — the malfunction indicator on the dashboard lights up.
  • 🔋 Increased fuel consumption - due to inefficient combustion of the mixture.

It's important to note that P1320 does not always indicate a coil failure. Sometimes the problem lies in wiring, connectors or even in faulty crankshaft position sensor (CPS). For example, on Nissan Almera N16 And Primera P12 this error often occurs due to oxidized contacts in the coil connector, and on Qashqai J10 - due to worn spark plugs.

📊 Which Nissan model did you encounter error P1320 on?
  • Qashqai
  • X-Trail
  • Juke
  • Almera
  • Other model

The main causes of error P1320

To effectively eliminate P1320, it is necessary to understand its root cause. Below is a list of the most common problems that cause this error on cars. Nissan:

  • 🔧 Faulty ignition coil - the most common reason. Over time, the winding insulation deteriorates, causing current leakage or an open circuit.
  • 🔥 Worn spark plugs - if the gap between the electrodes is too large or the spark plug is covered with soot, this can cause system malfunctions.
  • 🔌 Damaged wiring or connectors - oxidation, breaks or short circuit in the coil circuit.
  • 📊 Computer malfunctions - rarely, but it happens that the control unit produces false errors due to software glitches.
  • 🔄 Faulty crankshaft position sensor (CPS) — if the sensor transmits incorrect data, the ECU may mistakenly record ignition problems.

On some models, for example Nissan X-Trail T31 And Murano Z50, error P1320 may appear after replacing spark plugs or coils if non-original spare parts were used. It is also worth considering that on cars with a mileage of more than 150,000 km, the problem is often associated with natural wear and tear of the ignition system components.

⚠️ Attention: If the error P1320 accompanied by engine detonation or strong vibration, stop using the vehicle immediately! This may indicate critical wear of the coils or spark plugs, which can lead to damage to the piston group.

How to diagnose error P1320 yourself?

Diagnostics P1320 does not require sophisticated equipment, but will require care and consistency. Below is a verification algorithm that will help identify the cause of the malfunction.

Step 1: Read Errors

The first thing you need to do is confirm that the error is recorded in the ECU memory. P1320. To do this:

  1. Connect OBD-II scanner (For example, ELM327 or Launch CReader) to the diagnostic connector.
  2. Read fault codes. If in addition P1320 there are other errors (for example, P0300-P0306 — misfires), this will help narrow down the search.
  3. Remove errors and check if P1320 again after starting the engine.

Step 2: Visual Inspection

If the error returns, proceed with a visual inspection:

  • 🔍 Check it out ignition coils for the presence of cracks, melting or traces of breakdown.
  • 🔌 Take a look connectors and wiring - Oxidation or damage to the insulation can cause a short circuit.
  • 🔥 Unscrew spark plugs and evaluate their condition: normal clearance, absence of soot and oil traces.

Read errors with OBD-II scanner|

Check coils for cracks and breakdowns|

Inspect connectors and wiring|

Unscrew the spark plugs and assess their condition|

Check the coil circuit with a multimeter -->

Step 3: Checking Coils and Circuits with a Multimeter

For an accurate diagnosis you will need multimeter. Follow the instructions:

  1. Disconnect the ignition coil connector.
  2. Measure resistance primary winding (between pins 1 and 2 of the connector). Normal value for most models Nissan — 0.5–1.0 Ohm.
  3. Measure resistance secondary winding (between high voltage terminal and pin 2). Norm: 5–15 kOhm (depending on the coil model).
  4. Check the coil power circuit: between pin 1 of the connector and ground there should be 12 V with the ignition on.

If the winding resistance is not correct or there is no power, the coil or circuit is faulty.

Which ignition coils are suitable for Nissan?

Original coils for Nissan have articles like 22448-XXXX (For example, 22448-4M000 for Qashqai J10). Popular analogues:

  • Denso (item depends on model)
  • NGK (series U5008 for many engines Nissan)
  • Bosch (For example, 0 221 504 478)

When choosing, pay attention to compatibility with your engine (for example, HR16DE, MR20DE etc.).

Table: Normal ignition coil resistance values for popular Nissan models

Car model Engine Primary Winding (Ohm) Secondary winding (kOhm)
Nissan Qashqai J10/J11 MR20DE 0.6–0.9 8–12
Nissan X-Trail T31/T32 QR25DE 0.5–0.8 10–14
Nissan Juke F15 HR16DE 0.7–1.0 6–10
Nissan Almera N16 QG16DE 0.4–0.7 12–16
Nissan Note E11/E12 HR12DE 0.6–0.9 7–11

If the measured values differ significantly from those indicated in the table, the coil must be replaced. Please also note that on some models (eg Nissan Patrol Y61 with engine ZD30DDTi) error P1320 may indicate problems with injectors, and not with the ignition. In this case, additional diagnostics are required.

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

After diagnosis, you can begin repairs. Below is an algorithm of actions depending on the identified cause.

1. Replacing the ignition coil

If the coil is faulty:

  1. Disconnect negative battery terminal.
  2. Remove decorative engine cover (if any).
  3. Disconnect the coil connector and unscrew the mounting bolt (usually 10 mm).
  4. Remove the coil and install a new one, after applying dielectric grease on the rubber tip.
  5. Connect the connector and check the operation of the engine.
💡

Before replacing the coil, take a photograph of the location of the high-voltage wires (if any) so as not to confuse the connection order.

2. Replacing spark plugs

If the spark plugs are worn or have incorrect clearance:

  • 🔧 Use spark plug wrench for removing old spark plugs.
  • 📏 Check the gap on new spark plugs (for most engines Nissan — 0.8–1.1 mm).
  • ⚠️ Tighten the candles with force 20–25 Nm (Tightening may damage the threads).

3. Wiring repair

If the problem is in the wiring:

  • 🔌 Clean the oxidized contacts in the coil connectors.
  • 🔧 Replace damaged wires using heat shrink tube for insulation.
  • 📊 Check the continuity of the circuit with a multimeter in the “continuity” mode.
⚠️ Attention: On vehicles with the system Direct Ignition System (DIS) (For example, Nissan Maxima A33) replacement of coils requires ECU flashing, if non-original parts are installed. Otherwise error P1320 may stay.

Common repair mistakes and how to avoid them

Many car owners make common mistakes when troubleshooting P1320, which causes the problem to reappear. That's what it's impossible do:

  • 🚫 Ignore related errors - if in addition P1320 there is, for example, P0302 (misfires in cylinder 2), both problems need to be eliminated.
  • 🚫 Install non-original coils without checking - cheap analogues may have a different resistance, which will cause failures.
  • 🚫 Do not check spark plugs after replacing coils — worn-out spark plugs can quickly damage new coils.
  • 🚫 Neglect cleaning contacts — oxidation in connectors often causes repeated errors.

On models Nissan Juke And Qashqai with engine HR16DE error P1320 often occurs after washing the engine if water gets into the coil connectors. In this case, it is enough to dry the contacts and treat them WD-40 or special lubricant.

Another common mistake is incorrect coil tightening. If the coil is loosely secured, this can lead to vibration and insulation breakdown. On the other hand, overtightening can damage the threads in the cylinder head.

💡

Before replacing coils or spark plugs, always clear errors from the ECU and test the car in different modes (idling, acceleration, load).

When to contact the service?

Despite the fact that many reasons P1320 can be eliminated on your own, in some cases you cannot do without the help of specialists. Contact the service if:

  • 🔧 You replaced the coils and spark plugs, but the error remains.
  • 📊 Diagnostics showed problems with ECU or wiring harness.
  • ⚡ The error is accompanied by detonation, engine overheating or loss of compression.
  • 🔌 Your car has a system installed Nissan Direct Ignition System (NDIS), requiring special equipment to configure.

The service will carry out computer diagnostics with checking oscillograms of sensor signals, as well as testing coils on a special stand. Average diagnostic cost P1320 in official services Nissan amounts to 1,500–3,000 rubles, and replacing coils - from 4,000 rubles for one part (including work).

If you decide to contact the service, choose proven stations with good reviews. Be sure to check which spare parts will be used (original or analogue) and whether the work is guaranteed.

FAQ: Frequently asked questions about error P1320 on Nissan

Is it possible to drive with error code P1320?

Short driving is possible, but not recommended. Error P1320 indicates misfire, which leads to:

  • Increased wear of the catalytic converter.
  • Increased fuel consumption.
  • Risk of damage to the piston group due to detonation.

If the error appears for the first time, you can drive to your home or service center, but you cannot operate the car for a long time.

How much does it cost to replace an ignition coil on a Nissan?

The cost depends on the model and type of coil:

  • Original reel: 3,000–8,000 rubles per piece.
  • Analogue (Denso, NGK, Bosch): 1,500–4,000 rubles.
  • Replacement work: 800–2,000 rubles for one reel.

On some models (for example, Nissan Teana J32) the coils are integrated into the valve covers and are more expensive to replace.

Could P1320 be caused by bad fuel?

Yes, but indirectly. Low quality fuel can cause:

  • The formation of carbon deposits on the spark plugs, which leads to misfires.
  • Contamination of injectors and violation of the composition of the air-fuel mixture.

However, the error itself P1320 indicates problems in electrical circuit ignition, not the fuel system. If leaks appear after refueling with bad gasoline, first check the spark plugs and coils.

How to reset error P1320 after repair?

There are two ways to reset the error:

  1. With OBD-II scanner (for example, through the application Torque Pro or Carista).
  2. By disconnecting battery terminal for 10-15 minutes (but this will also reset other settings, such as the radio and climate control).

If the error appears again, the problem is not completely resolved.

Which ignition coils are best for Nissan?

Recommendations for selection:

  • Original - a reliable but expensive option (items begin with 22448-).
  • Denso - optimal price/quality ratio, often used as an original on the assembly line.
  • NGK - good analogues, but you need to check compatibility with the model.
  • Bosch - a budget option, but there may be defective copies.

On vehicles with the system NDIS (For example, Nissan 350Z) it is better to install only the original or certified analogues.