P1320 on Nissan
Ignition Signal Primary Circuit Malfunction
P1320 on Nissan vehicles indicates ignition signal primary circuit malfunction. Au7o has documented this code across 1 Nissan model — most commonly on 240SX. Manufacturer-specific powertrain code used by Nissan and Infiniti. The ECM monitors the primary (low-voltage) side of the ignition coil circuits that trigger spark, and sets this code when the ignition primary signal is not returned to the ECM during cranking or running. On many Nissan engines the power transistor that switches the coil is built into the coil-on-plug assembly, so a failed coil often sets this code. Expect misfires, rough idle, hesitation, and in bad cases a flashing check engine light - a flashing light means stop driving, as raw fuel can destroy the catalytic converter. Typical repair costs on Nissan range from $30 to $700, depending on the specific model and root cause.
Common Causes of P1320
- •Failed ignition coil / integrated power transistor (a very common Nissan failure, often one coil at a time)
- •Worn or fouled spark plugs overstressing the coils
- •Open, shorted, or chafed wiring in the ignition primary circuit
- •Poor connection or corrosion at an ignition coil connector
- •Crankshaft or camshaft position sensor fault disrupting the ignition trigger signal
- •ECM fault (rare - rule out coils and wiring first)
P1320 on Nissan by Model
Nissan 240SX(2 issues)
- Distributor / Cam Angle Sensor Failure and Internal Oil Leak (KA24DE)1991-1998
The KA24DE uses a camshaft-driven distributor that houses the optical Cam Angle Sensor (CAS) and the integral ignition module. Two age-related problems are common. First, the cap-to-distributor O-ring dries out, cracks, and lets oil weep out from under the cap; separately, a clogged PCV valve raises crankcase pressure and pushes oil up into the distributor internally, where it fouls the optical sensor disc and eventually kills the ignition module. Second, the optical CAS itself degrades. Symptoms range from rough running and stalling to no-start, frequently logging Nissan self-diagnostic Code 11 (crank/cam position signal) and Code 21 (ignition signal). Worn cap and rotor contacts add misfire and hard-start complaints.
- Distributor and Optical CAS Failure (Codes 11, 21)1991-1998
The KA24DE's distributor houses the optical crank angle sensor (CAS). The internal optical disc and bearings wear with age, causing intermittent or no-start conditions, often throwing ECU codes 11 (crank angle sensor) and 21 (ignition signal). The distributor O-ring also leaks oil into the unit, accelerating failure. Power transistor failure within the distributor circuit can prematurely kill ignition coils.
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View P1320 across all makes →Frequently Asked Questions
What does P1320 mean on Nissan?▼
P1320 stands for "Ignition Signal Primary Circuit Malfunction." Manufacturer-specific powertrain code used by Nissan and Infiniti. The ECM monitors the primary (low-voltage) side of the ignition coil circuits that trigger spark, and sets this code when the ignition primary signal is not returned to the ECM during cranking or running. On many Nissan engines the power transistor that switches the coil is built into the coil-on-plug assembly, so a failed coil often sets this code. Expect misfires, rough idle, hesitation, and in bad cases a flashing check engine light - a flashing light means stop driving, as raw fuel can destroy the catalytic converter. On Nissan specifically, this code is documented across 1 model.
What causes P1320 on Nissan vehicles?▼
Common causes on Nissan: Failed ignition coil / integrated power transistor (a very common Nissan failure, often one coil at a time), Worn or fouled spark plugs overstressing the coils, Open, shorted, or chafed wiring in the ignition primary circuit, Poor connection or corrosion at an ignition coil connector, Crankshaft or camshaft position sensor fault disrupting the ignition trigger signal. Specific causes vary by model and year — see the per-model sections below.
How much does it cost to fix P1320 on a Nissan?▼
Repair costs on Nissan range from $30 to $700, depending on the specific model and root cause.
Which Nissan models have P1320 documented?▼
Au7o has documented P1320 on 1 Nissan model: 240SX.