Owners of brand cars Nissan often encounter an unpleasant situation when the Check Engine icon lights up on the dashboard and the scanner displays a fault code P1320. This diagnostic code indicates a problem in the ignition control circuit, namely a lack of signal from the crankshaft position sensor (CPS) or a malfunction in the valve timing system. Without the correct signal from this element, the electronic control unit cannot determine when the spark is fired, which leads to engine shutdown or unstable operation.
Ignoring this error can lead to serious consequences for the engine, since the control system ceases to control the accuracy of fuel injection and spark formation. In some cases, the car may start, but immediately stall, or run with severe misfires, which causes overheating of the catalyst and increased exhaust toxicity. Understanding the nature of the error P1320 will allow you to save time and money on visits to the service center.
The essence of the malfunction and the operation of the ignition system
Error code P1320 stands for “Ignition coil control circuit malfunction” or “No signal from crankshaft position sensor.” In series engines HR, MR and QR an ignition system is used where the ECU directly controls the coils, receiving data on the position of the pistons. If the signal disappears or becomes incorrect, the control unit goes into emergency mode, attempting to keep the motor running, but with limited effectiveness.
It is important to understand that the crankshaft position sensor is the “eyes” of the computer. Without it, it is impossible to calculate the ignition timing. The error can occur not only due to a breakdown of the sensor itself, but also due to problems with the wiring, oxidation of contacts in the connectors, or even due to a malfunction of the ECU itself. In rare cases, especially on older models Nissan, the problem lies in the mechanical wear of the ring gear on the flywheel or crankshaft pulley.
Symptoms vary depending on the extent of circuit damage:
- 🔴 The engine starts with great difficulty or does not start at all.
- 🔴 The Check Engine light is on on the dashboard with code P1320.
- 🔴 The car loses power and jerks when accelerating.
- 🔴 Fuel consumption and exhaust toxicity levels increase.
The main causes of the error
The most common reason for the appearance of the code P1320 is the failure of the crankshaft position sensor. Over time, the winding inside the sensor can burn out and the magnet can weaken, causing signal loss. There is also a common situation when metal shavings accumulate on the sensor, which screens the magnetic field and distorts the data entering the control unit.
The second most common cause is wiring problems. In the engine compartment Nissan Wires are exposed to high temperatures, vibrations and moisture. The insulation can fray, exposing the conductors, which leads to a short circuit or open circuit. Oxidation of the contacts in the sensor connector is also a common problem, especially if the car was operated in conditions of high humidity or salty reagents.
Sometimes the problem lies deeper - in the engine control unit (ECU) itself. The internal drivers for controlling the ignition coils may fail, or the soldering of the contacts on the board may be damaged. This is a more complex and expensive repair option that requires professional diagnostics using specialized equipment. On cars with a mileage of more than 150,000 km, the likelihood of wear of the crankshaft ring gear increases significantly, which requires a thorough check of the mechanical part.
⚠️ Attention! Never try to start the engine multiple times in a row while the P1320 code is present if the car does not start. This can cause the spark plugs to flood with gasoline and drain the battery, making further diagnostics more difficult.
- up to 50,000 km
- from 50 to 100,000 km
- from 100 to 200,000 km
- more than 200,000 km
Stages of diagnostics and circuit testing
To accurately determine the cause of the malfunction, it is necessary to conduct a comprehensive diagnosis, starting with a visual inspection. Open the hood and inspect the crankshaft position sensor, which is usually located at the bottom of the engine, near the crankshaft pulley. Check the integrity of the wire and the presence of signs of mechanical damage or burning on the connector.
The next step is to check the resistance of the sensor winding using a multimeter. Disconnect the connector and measure the resistance between the sensor contacts. Normal values are usually in the range of 0.5 to 1.5 kOhm, but the exact numbers depend on the engine model. If the resistance is outside the normal range or reaches infinity, the sensor requires replacement.
It is also necessary to check the integrity of the wiring from the sensor to the ECU. To do this, use the multimeter's continuity mode. Make sure there is no short circuit to ground or positive, and also check for open circuits. If the wiring is ok, but there is still no signal, there may be a problem with the connector or the control unit itself. Check the contacts in the ECU connector for oxidation or corrosion.
- 🔧 Check the resistance of the sensor with a multimeter (norm: 0.5–1.5 kOhm).
- 🔧 Inspect the wiring for chafing and damage to the insulation.
- 🔧 Make sure there is no oxidation in the sensor and ECU connectors.
- 🔧 Check the gap between the sensor and the ring gear.
☑️ Ignition circuit diagnostics
Troubleshooting Methods
If diagnostics show that the crankshaft position sensor is faulty, it must be replaced. Replacement process on most models Nissan does not require engine removal, but may be difficult due to the close arrangement of the units. Before installing a new sensor, be sure to clean the installation area of dirt and oil to avoid re-contamination.
If the problem is in the wiring, it is necessary to restore the integrity of the circuit. If the wire is frayed, it can be insulated and protected with heat shrink, but the best solution is to replace the entire section of the wire. When connector contacts become oxidized, they should be cleaned with coupling fluid and lubricated with dielectric grease to prevent re-oxidation.
If the problem lies in the ECU, repairs may require resoldering the chips or replacing the entire unit. In some cases, flashing the control unit helps if the error is caused by a software glitch. It is important to note that after replacing the sensor or repairing the wiring, it is necessary to reset the errors through a diagnostic scanner and check the operation of the engine in different modes.
What should I do if P1320 comes back after replacing the sensor?
If the error returns immediately after replacement, check the gap between the sensor and the ring. It is possible that a non-original sensor is installed with the wrong gap, or there are chips on the crown. It is also worth checking the integrity of the circuit to the ECU and the presence of interference from high-voltage wires.
⚠️ Attention! When replacing the crankshaft position sensor, use only original parts or high-quality analogues. Cheap Chinese copies often have unstable characteristics and can fail after a few hundred kilometers.
Specifics of repairs on different Nissan models
On models Nissan Qashqai with engines MR20 and MR18 The P1320 code is often associated with sensor overheating due to its proximity to the exhaust manifold. Owners of these cars are recommended to install an additional heat sink or use heat-resistant materials when laying the wiring. On Nissan X-Trail with engine QR25 A common cause is wear on the ring gear, which requires replacement.
For cars Nissan Teana with engine VQ25 or VQ35 The problem may be with the ignition coils. Although the P1320 code indicates a control circuit, sometimes a faulty coil will create noise that the ECU interprets as a loss of signal. In such cases, it is recommended to check and, if necessary, replace the ignition coils.
On compact models like Nissan Note or Nissan Tiida with engines HR16 the problem is often oxidation of the sensor connector due to moisture. It is enough to remove the connector, clean the contacts and treat them with a protective compound. However, if the problem persists, it is worth checking the gap between the sensor and the pulley, as it may be compromised due to vibrations.
| Model | Engine | Common cause of P1320 | Difficulty of repair |
|---|---|---|---|
| Qashqai | MR20 / MR18 | Sensor overheating | Average |
| X-Trail | QR25 | Crankshaft crown wear | High |
| Teana | VQ25 / VQ35 | Coil interference | Average |
| Note / Tiida | HR16 | Connector oxidation | Low |
Before purchasing a new sensor, be sure to check the part number with the original number of your vehicle. Different engine modifications may use sensors with different characteristics that look identical in appearance.
Prevention and recommendations for use
To avoid the error reappearing P1320, it is necessary to carry out regular vehicle maintenance. Include checking the condition of the crankshaft position sensor in the list of scheduled work when changing the oil. Inspect the wiring for chafing and signs of heat, especially around bends and moving parts.
Use only high-quality consumables and spare parts. Cheap analogue sensors often have unstable characteristics and may not withstand high temperatures under the hood. Also try to avoid getting water and aggressive detergents on the sensor connectors when washing the engine.
If you notice the slightest signs of unstable engine operation, do not delay diagnosis. Early detection of the problem will avoid costly repairs and replacement of expensive components. Regular diagnostics using a scanner will help you notice growing problems in time and prevent their development.
- ✅ Regularly inspect wiring and connectors for damage.
- ✅ Use only original or certified spare parts.
- ✅ Avoid high pressure engine washing.
- ✅ React to the first signs of malfunction in a timely manner.
Regular maintenance and the use of high-quality spare parts are the key to long-term operation of the ignition system and the absence of P1320 errors.
Frequently asked questions and answers (FAQ)
Is it possible to drive with error code P1320?
Driving with this error is highly not recommended. The engine may run unstably, lose power and stall at any time. This creates an emergency situation on the road and can lead to damage to the catalyst or other elements of the exhaust system.
How much does it cost to replace a crankshaft position sensor?
The cost depends on the car model and the selected spare part. The original sensor usually costs from 3,000 to 8,000 rubles, and replacement work costs from 1,500 to 3,000 rubles. Non-original analogues may be cheaper, but their reliability is questionable.
Is it possible to fix the error by flashing the ECU?
Reflashing can only help if the error is caused by a software glitch. In most cases, P1320 indicates a hardware problem with the sensor or wiring, so reflashing will not solve the problem.
How to check a sensor without a scanner?
Without a scanner, you can only visually inspect the sensor and wiring, and also measure the resistance with a multimeter. Accurate signal diagnostics can only be carried out using an oscilloscope or professional diagnostic equipment.
What happens if you ignore error P1320?
Ignoring the error can lead to complete failure of the ignition system, damage to the catalyst due to unburnt fuel, and even major engine repairs in case of seizure or overheating.