Error code P1320 on Nissan: a complete analysis of causes and solutions

Error P1320 on the dashboard Nissan - one of the most common fault codes associated with the ignition system. It signals problems in the circuit ignition coils or control module, but the exact cause may vary depending on the car model and year. Owners Qashqai, X-Trail, Almera And Note encounter it most often, especially on engines HR16DE, MR20DE And QR25DE.

Unlike critical errors leading to engine failure, P1320 often manifests itself as "floating" defect: the car may jerk when accelerating, lose power or go into emergency mode. It is dangerous to ignore it - long-term driving with such a malfunction leads to damage to the catalytic converter (replacement cost from 30,000 ₽) and increased fuel consumption. In this article we will analyze all possible causes, diagnostic methods (including scanners ELM327 And Launch CReader), as well as step-by-step repair instructions - from replacing spark plugs to checking wiring.

What does error P1320 mean on Nissan: code decoding

Code P1320 in the diagnostic system OBD-II stands for "Ignition Signal Primary" - the problem is in the primary ignition circuit. This is a general code that may indicate:

• 🔥 Ignition coil malfunction (break, short circuit or insulation wear).
• ⚡ Wiring problems between the coils and ECU (breaks, oxidation of contacts).
• 🛠️ Incorrect operation of the ignition control module (in models with individual coils).
• 🔋 Low voltage in the on-board network (for example, due to a discharged battery or faulty alternator).

On Nissan this code is often accompanied by other errors such as P0300 (misfire) or P030X (misfires in a specific cylinder). For example, if together with P1320 lit P0302, the problem is most likely in the coil or spark plug second cylinder.

The peculiarity of the error is that it can appear periodically - for example, at high humidity or after washing the engine. This is due to water getting on high-voltage wires or coil contacts. In such cases, the code may disappear after drying, but it cannot be ignored: moisture accelerates corrosion of the contacts.

Nissan Models Most Affected by P1320

Analysis of data from diagnostic scanners and owner forums shows that the error P1320 Most often found on the following models:

Model	Engine	Years of manufacture	Frequency of occurrence
Nissan Qashqai (J10, J11)	HR16DE, MR20DE	2007–2021	High
Nissan X-Trail (T31, T32)	QR25DE, MR20DD	2007–2020	Average
Nissan Almera (G15, N16)	HR16DE, K4M	2012–2022	High
Nissan Note (E11, E12)	HR12DE, HR15DE	2006–2020	Low
Nissan Juke (F15)	HR16DE, MR16DDT	2010–2019	Average

On engines HR16DE And MR20DE error P1320 is often associated with a design feature: individual ignition coils are attached directly to the spark plugs, and over time the rubber seals lose their elasticity, allowing moisture to pass through. B X-Trail with motor QR25DE the problem usually lies in the aging of high-voltage wires.

It's interesting that on Nissan Patrol (Y62) and Navara (D40) error P1320 It is extremely rare - more reliable ignition systems with improved insulation are used there. But the owners Almera G15 And Qashqai J11 You should be more careful: on these models, the coils often fail after 80–100 thousand kilometers.

Causes of error P1320: from spark plugs to ECU

To effectively resolve an error, you need to understand its root cause. Let's consider all possible scenarios - from the simplest to the most complex.

1. Malfunction of ignition coils

The most common reason (about 60% of cases). Coils on Nissan often suffer from:

• 🔌 Break in the primary or secondary winding (checked with a multimeter).
• 💧 Moisture ingress through cracks in the housing or seals.
• 🔥 Overheating due to its close location to the exhaust manifold.

On engines HR16DE And MR20DE coils often “die” in pairs - if one fails, the next one may soon fail. This is due to the commonality of the food chain. Symptoms: tripping when cold, misfire during acceleration, error P030X along with P1320.

2. Problems with spark plugs

Worn or unsuitable spark plugs can cause P1320 due to:

• ⚡ Increased clearance between the electrodes (norm for Nissan: 0.8–1.1 mm).
• 🛑 Carbon or oil deposits (indicates problems with valve stem seals).
• 🔧 Incorrect tightening torque (overtightened spark plugs deform the threads in the cylinder head).

On Qashqai J11 And X-Trail T32 cheap spark plugs are often installed Bosch or Beruthat cannot withstand loads. Original candles Nissan (article 22401-JM00A) last longer, but cost 2–3 times more expensive (from 800 ₽ per piece).

3. Damage to wiring and connectors

Oxidized or damaged contacts in the coil circuit are the third most common cause. P1320. Pay special attention to:

• 🔌 Coil connector (often oxidizes due to moisture).
• 🔗 Wiring harness from coils to ECU (rubbing on the intake manifold).
• ⚡ Engine "mass" (poor contact with the body).

On Almera G15 And Note E12 The insulation of the wires near the thermostat often wears out. You can check this visually or using multimeter in "call" mode.

4. ECU malfunction or software failures

Less common (about 5% of cases) error P1320 arises due to:

• 🖥️ ECU firmware failure (for example, after unsuccessful chip tuning).
• 🔋 Voltage drop in the on-board network (less than 11.5 V at startup).
• 🛠️ Poor contact in the ECU connector (oxidation or corrosion).

If the error appears after disconnecting the battery or “lighting up”, the problem may be immobilizer (on Qashqai J10 And X-Trail T31 this is not uncommon). In such cases, resetting adaptations through the diagnostic scanner helps.

How to check the ignition coil with a multimeter?

To check, remove the coil and measure the resistance:

- Primary winding: 0.5–1.5 Ohm (between pins 1 and 3).

- Secondary: 6–15 kOhm (between HV terminal and pin 3).

If the values are outside the limits, the coil is faulty.

Diagnosing error P1320: step-by-step instructions

To pinpoint the cause P1320, follow this algorithm. Let's start with the simplest checks that can be done without special equipment.

Step 1: Visual inspection

Open the hood and inspect:

• 🔍 Ignition coils: whether there are any cracks, melting or traces of moisture.
• ⚡ Candles: presence of carbon deposits, oil traces, correct clearance.
• 🔌 Connectors: oxidation, tightness, insulation damage.

On HR16DE And MR20DE coils often “leak” - traces of oil or antifreeze are visible on them. This is a sign of leaking seals. If there is a white coating on the coil (traces of an arc discharge), it needs to be replaced.

Step 2: Checking the Spark Plugs

Unscrew the spark plugs and assess their condition:

• 🔥 Normal electrode color: light gray or brown.
• ⚠️ Black soot: Rich mixture or delayed ignition.
• ⛽ Oil deposits: problems with valve stem seals.
• 💥 Melted electrodes: detonation or overheating.

The gap between the electrodes should be 0.8–1.1 mm. If it is larger, the candle will not be able to properly ignite the mixture, which will lead to omissions and errors. P1320. To check, use a feeler gauge or a special wrench with a gap indicator.

Step 3: Ignition Coil Diagnosis

To check the coils you will need multimeter. Follow the instructions:

1. Remove the coil from the engine (disconnect the connector and unscrew the mounting bolt).
2. Measure the resistance of the primary winding (between pins 1 and 3): it should be 0.5–1.5 Ohm.
3. Measure the resistance of the secondary winding (between the high-voltage terminal and pin 3): it should be 6–15 kOhm.
4. If the values are outside the limits, the coil is faulty.

On Nissan with individual coils (one per cylinder), the coil often fails 1st or 4th cylinder - they are located closer to the outlet and heat up more. If the resistance is normal, but the error remains, check the coil for a spark (service only!).

Disconnect the battery|Remove the coil from the engine|Check the resistance of the primary winding|Check the resistance of the secondary winding|Inspect for cracks and traces of breakdown-->

Step 4: Check Wiring and Connectors

Use multimeter in the "continuity" or voltage check mode:

• ⚡ Voltage at coil connector: must be 12 V with the ignition on (between pins 1 and 3).
• 🔌 Wire resistance from coil to ECU: should not exceed 1 ohm.
• 🛠️ Engine "mass": Check the contact between the engine and the body (resistance should be close to 0).

On Qashqai J11 And X-Trail T32 The wiring harness near the intake manifold often gets frayed. If the wires are damaged, they must be replaced or insulated with heat shrink tubing.

Step 5: Scanner diagnostics

For in-depth diagnostics, use a scanner ELM327, Launch CReader or Nissan Consult. Please note:

• 📊 Cylinder operating parameters (misfires, Misfire Count).
• ⚡ On-board voltage (should be 13.5–14.5 V when the engine is running).
• 🛠️ Sensor status (especially CKP — crankshaft position sensor).

If the scanner shows misfire in a specific cylinder (for example, P0302), first check the coil and spark plug of this cylinder. On HR16DE And MR20DE resetting adaptations through the scanner often helps (function Reset ECU or Clear Adaptations).

How to fix error P1320: from simple to complex

Depending on the cause, repair methods vary from simply replacing spark plugs to reflashing ECU. Let's consider all the options.

1. Replacing spark plugs

If the spark plugs are worn or have incorrect clearance:

• 🔧 Buy original candles Nissan (article 22401-JM00A) or analogues NGK (IFR6T11) / Denso (FK16HR11).
• 🛠️ Unscrew the old spark plugs with a torque wrench (tightening torque: 20–25 Nm).
• ⚡ Check the gap with a feeler gauge and adjust if necessary.

On Almera G15 And Note E12 spark plugs are changed without removing the intake manifold, and Qashqai J11 And X-Trail T32 To access the 3rd and 4th cylinders you will have to remove the throttle assembly. Do not use spark plugs with platinum or iridium electrodes. — they are not compatible with the ignition system of these engines!

2. Replacing ignition coils

If the coil is faulty:

• 🛒 Buy an original reel (item number for HR16DE: 22448-4M015) or equivalent Hitachi / Mitsubishi.
• 🔧 Disconnect the connector and unscrew the fastening bolt (10 mm wrench).
• ⚡ Install the new coil, lubricating the O-ring with silicone grease.

On Nissan coils often “die” in pairs. If one fails, it is recommended to replace all four (or at least a couple on the problem side). Price of the original reel: from 3,500 ₽, analogue: from 1,800 ₽.

3. Wiring repair

If the problem is in the wires or connectors:

• 🔌 Clean the connector contacts contact fluid (For example, CRC).
• 🔗 Replace damaged wires (use heat shrink tubing for insulation).
• 🛠️ Check the engine “ground” - if necessary, clean and lubricate the contact.

On Qashqai J10 And X-Trail T31 The connector often oxidizes ECU (located under the glove compartment). It needs to be disassembled, cleaned and processed lithol.

4. Reset errors and adaptations

After repair:

• 📱 Connect the scanner and reset errors (Clear DTC).
• 🔄 Reset adaptations (Reset ECU Adaptations or Throttle Body Alignment).
• 🚗 Drive 50–100 km in gentle mode to ECU "learned" again.

If the error P1320 comes back, maybe the problem is ECU firmware. In this case, flashing the service will help (cost: from 5,000 ₽).

5. Checking the ECU and on-board network

If all the previous steps did not help:

• 🔋 Check the voltage of the battery and generator (should be 13.5–14.5 V with the engine running).
• 🖥️ Diagnose ECU for errors via the CAN bus.
• 🔧 If necessary, reflash the unit or replace it (original: from 20,000 ₽).

On Nissan with the system Nissan Consult (For example, Patrol Y62) for diagnostics ECU you need a specialized scanner. This is impossible to do in a garage environment.

Repair cost: do it yourself vs service

The cost of fixing the error P1320 depends on the cause and method of repair. Below is the approximate price for Moscow and regions (for 2026):

Type of work	Cost of parts (₽)	Cost of service work (₽)	Difficulty (1–5)
Replacing spark plugs (4 pcs.)	1 200–3 200	800–1 500	2
Replacing the ignition coil (1 pc.)	1 800–4 500	500–1 200	3
Replacement of all coils (4 pcs.)	7 200–18 000	2 000–4 000	3
Wiring repair (cleaning connectors, replacing wires)	200–1 000	1 500–3 000	4
Diagnostics with scanner + error reset	—	1 000–2 500	2
Flashing the ECU	—	5 000–12 000	5

Do-it-yourself repairs will be cheaper, but require tools and skills. For example, replacing spark plugs with HR16DE takes 30–40 minutes, and replacing coils takes up to 1.5 hours (due to inconvenient access to the 3rd cylinder). The service will charge from 1,500 ₽ for this work.

If the problem is ECU or firmware, you can’t do without the service. Average diagnostic cost Nissan Consult — 2,500 ₽, flashing — from 5,000 ₽. On Qashqai J11 And X-Trail T32 sometimes it helps firmware update through an official dealer (free under warranty if the car is under 3 years old).

⚠️ Attention: When replacing coils with Nissan with engines HR16DE And MR20DE Be sure to lubricate the O-rings silicone grease (article 999MP-AS002). Without this, the rings quickly become tanned, and moisture again penetrates the reel.

Prevention of error P1320: how to avoid recurrence

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

• 🔧 Change spark plugs every 30–40 thousand km (even if they are “platinum” or “iridium”).
• 🛠️ Check the coils for moisture resistance: Once a year, clean them from dirt and lubricate the seals.
• ⚡ Monitor the on-board network: The battery voltage must be at least 12.6 V, generator - 13.5–14.5 V.
• 🚗 Avoid pressure washing the engine — water gets into the coil connectors.
• 📊 Reset adaptations regularly through a scanner (especially after replacing spark plugs or coils).

On Nissan Qashqai J11 And X-Trail T32 It is recommended to treat the coil contacts once every 2 years spray for electrical wiring (For example, Liqui Moly Electronic-Spray). This prevents oxidation and corrosion.

If you frequently drive off-road or in high humidity conditions, install protective case to coils (for example, from CoversAll). It costs about 1,500 ₽, but extends the life of the coils by 2–3 times.

⚠️ Attention: On engines HR16DE And MR20DE Cannot use spark plugs with increased gap (more than 1.1 mm). This leads to breakdown of the coils and an error P1320. Always check the gap with a feeler gauge before installation!

Frequently asked questions about error P1320 on Nissan

Is it possible to drive with error code P1320?

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

• 🔥 Overheating of the catalytic converter (risk of melting