No one is immune from a sudden engine stop or loss of power, especially when you are in heavy traffic. For owners Nissan Bluebird One of the most common and frightening problems is the appearance of a fault code. P1320. This signal indicates a failure in the crankshaft position sensor control circuit, which is critical to the operation of the ignition and fuel injection system.
Ignoring this problem can lead to complete engine failure or the inability to start the car even after a short stop. Owners often encounter the fact that the car stalls while driving, and restarting is possible only after a few minutes of cooling or after resetting the errors. Understanding the nature of this malfunction and knowledge of testing algorithms is the key to quick and high-quality repairs without unnecessary costs for replacing serviceable components.
The essence of the error and the operation of the ignition system
Engine Nissan Bluebird is equipped with a complex control system where the timing of the ignition timing depends on accurate data coming from the crankshaft position sensor (DCKP). Code P1320 means that the engine control unit (ECU) is not receiving correct signals or there is no signal at all for a certain period of time.
Without this data, the computer cannot determine the position of the pistons and therefore cannot fire the spark at the right time. As a result, the engine stops working. The problem often lies not in the engine itself, but in the electrical circuit connecting the sensor to the electronic unit, or in a malfunction of the sensor itself.
It is important to understand that DCKP signal is primary for the operation of the entire system. If it disappears, the system goes into emergency mode or completely cuts off the fuel and spark supply. This is a protective measure to prevent mechanical damage to the engine due to improper ignition timing.
Often owners Nissan Bluebird This error is confused with problems in the injection system, but it is the crankshaft sensor that is responsible for basic synchronization. The absence of a spark when there is pressure in the fuel rail is a sure sign that the problem is localized in the sensor circuit.
The main reasons for the failure
There are several key factors that can cause the code to appear P1320. The most common cause is physical wear or damage to the crankshaft position sensor itself. Over time, the magnet inside the sensor can weaken and the winding can be destroyed from overheating or vibration.
The second most common cause is wiring problems. In the engine compartment Nissan Bluebird Wiring is constantly exposed to high temperatures, oil and reagents. The insulation may fray, resulting in a short circuit or open circuit.
- 🔥 Overheating of the sensor due to its proximity to the exhaust manifold, which changes its resistance.
- 💧 Moisture or oil gets into the connection connectors, causing oxidation of the contacts.
- ⚡ Mechanical damage to the wire during repair or replacement of other engine components.
The possibility of a malfunction of the engine control unit (ECU) itself should not be ruled out. Although less common, failure of the output stage in the electronics can also be interpreted by the system as an open sensor circuit.
Particular attention should be paid to the condition of the crankshaft pulley. If the teeth on the damper (gear) are damaged, dirty or have play, the sensor will not be able to read the correct signal, even if it itself is working.
Diagnostics and testing of components
To accurately determine the cause of the malfunction, it is necessary to conduct a comprehensive diagnosis. The first step should always be a visual inspection of the connectors and wiring. Locate the crankshaft sensor connector, usually located on the engine block, and inspect it for oxidation or moisture.
Use a multimeter to measure the resistance of the sensor. For most models Nissan Bluebird the normal resistance value is in the range from 500 to 1500 Ohms, but it is better to check the exact numbers in the technical documentation for the specific year of manufacture. A value outside these limits indicates a sensor malfunction.
- 🔧 Check the integrity of the wires coming from the sensor to the control unit for breaks.
- 📉 Measure the voltage at the connector with the ignition on (should be about 5V or 12V depending on the circuit).
- 🔄 Clean the connector contacts with a special cleaner for electrical contacts.
If the electrical circuit is OK, the next step is to check the signal with an oscilloscope. This will allow you to see the waveform and verify that the signal is being generated when the engine is cranked. The absence of a signal when the crankshaft rotates confirms a problem with the sensor or pulley.
In some cases, the problem may be hidden in poor grounding. Check the main grounding points of the engine and body, as poor ground contact can simulate an open circuit in the sensor.
- The car stalls while driving
- Startup problems
- The error appears periodically
- The car won't start at all
Step-by-step instructions for replacing the sensor
If diagnostics show a malfunction of the sensor itself, replacing it is the most effective way to eliminate the error. The process does not require complex equipment, but requires accuracy and consistency of actions.
First you need to de-energize the car by disconnecting the negative terminal of the battery. This will protect the electronics from accidental short circuits during operation. Next, locate the sensor, which is usually bolted on next to the crankshaft pulley.
☑️ Replacing the crankshaft position sensor
Unscrew the mounting bolt and carefully remove the old sensor. Pay attention to the clearance between the sensor and the ring gear as it is critical to operation. When installing a new element, ensure that the O-ring (gasket) is in place and not damaged.
After installing the new sensor, reconnect the connector and restore power to the vehicle. Using a diagnostic scanner, it is necessary to erase stored errors from the control unit memory. If the error P1320 does not return after several cycles of starting and operating the engine, the repair can be considered successful.
⚠️ Warning: Never attempt to install the sensor without using a new gasket or seal. Oil or dirt getting into the gap will lead to rapid re-breakage and unstable operation of the engine.
Problems with the ignition module and ECU
In rare cases where the sensor and wiring are completely intact, the problem may lie in the ignition module or the engine control unit itself. In cars Nissan A situation often occurs when the output transistors in the ignition unit burn out, ceasing to switch the spark.
This may be caused by prolonged use in harsh conditions or a manufacturing defect. The symptoms are similar to the error P1320: Engine stalls, no spark, but when checking the sensor circuit everything looks fine. In such cases, professional diagnostics of the ignition module is required.
- 💡 Check for spark on the spark plugs when cranking with the starter.
- 📡 Inspect the ignition module for signs of overheating or cracks.
- 🔌 Check the power and grounding of the ignition module itself.
If the problem is confirmed in the control unit, repair is often not economically feasible, and the ECU must be replaced with a used one or a new analogue. At the same time
Why might P1320 appear intermittently?
The intermittent occurrence of the error is often associated with overheating. As the engine heats up, the wiring or sensor expands and the connection is lost. After cooling, contact is restored and the car starts again. This is a classic sign of a dying sensor or poor connection in the connector.
Table of sensor parameters and values
For ease of comparison and checking the serviceability of the crankshaft position sensor, below is a table with approximate parameters. These values may vary slightly depending on the year of manufacture and the specific engine modification Nissan Bluebird.
| Parameter | Normal value | Fault value | Action |
|---|---|---|---|
| Winding resistance | 500 - 1500 Ohm | Infinity (open) or 0 Ohm (short circuit) | Replacing the sensor |
| Supply voltage | 5.0 - 5.2 V | 0 V or 12 V | Wiring check |
| Oscilloscope signal | Sine wave or square wave | Flat line | Pulley check |
| Clearance to pulley | 0.5 - 1.5 mm | More than 2mm or contact | Adjustment/Replacement |
⚠️ Attention: If you see a resistance value close to zero, this is almost guaranteed to mean an inter-turn short circuit inside the sensor. Such an element must be replaced immediately, as it can damage the control unit.
Specifics of operation and prevention
To avoid the error reappearing P1320, it is important to follow the operating instructions and carry out regular maintenance. The crankshaft position sensor is a sensitive element that does not like extreme temperatures and aggressive liquids.
Regularly clean the engine compartment from oil and dirt. Oil getting into the sensor connector is one of the most common causes of its failure. Use special aerosols to protect contacts from oxidation after washing the engine.
When replacing a sensor, always use original O-rings or high-quality equivalents. Cheap gaskets often cannot withstand temperatures and begin to leak oil, which quickly kills the new sensor.
It is also worth paying attention to the condition of the timing belt. If the belt slips or stretches, this can lead to phase desynchronization, which is sometimes interpreted by the system as a crankshaft sensor error, although the reason is deeper.
If you plan to park your car for a long time, disconnect the battery to prevent discharge and possible voltage surges that can damage the electronics. This is especially true for older models Nissan Bluebird.
Regularly checking wiring integrity and clean connectors can prevent P1320 and avoid costly engine repairs.
FAQ: Frequently asked questions
Is it possible to drive with error code P1320?
It is strictly not recommended to drive with this error. The engine can stall at any moment, which creates an emergency situation on the road. In addition, attempts to start may drain the battery and damage the starter.
How much does it cost to replace a sensor on a Nissan Bluebird?
The cost of the sensor itself varies from 1,500 to 5,000 rubles, depending on the manufacturer (original or analogue). The replacement job usually takes 30-60 minutes and is inexpensive if you have access to the engine.
Can P1320 be caused by bad gasoline?
Bad gasoline does not directly cause this error, since it is associated with the electrical circuit of the sensor. However, detonation from poor quality fuel can lead to mechanical damage to the crankshaft pulley, which will indirectly cause the problem.
Do I need to do a flashing after replacing the sensor?
No, flashing is not required. It is enough to simply erase error codes using a diagnostic scanner. The control unit adapts to the new sensor automatically.
What should I do if the error returns immediately after a reset?
This means that the cause of the problem has not been eliminated. Either a defective sensor is installed, or there is a break in the wiring, or there is a problem in the control unit. More in-depth diagnostics using an oscilloscope are required.