2000 Maxima ECU giving P1320 code

[bradfordrb]

My 2000 maxima has been giving me this P1320 code (per Autozone's OBDII machine) recently. I believe it has thrown the same code twice as there seems to be no indication of where the problem lies.

I've read the code translates to "Primary Ignition System Failure or Misfire"; however, there are no codes to indicate a faulty cylinder misfiring. Occasionally, it does seem to drag a bit and idle a little lower for a second or two but then resumes normal rpms. (could be psychological as I watch the new maximas on the road )

I've found a TSB for the problem, it suggests doing what the dealers say is required - changing all six ignition coils. I'd prefer to do the work myself to save some money but --- is there any way to know what coil is bad or if there is another problem causing this code?

I pulled the front 3 coils one by one to see if I could get the car to miss more often or smooth out while I ran on 5 cylinders.. nothing apparent to me.

Thanks for help!

[NISTECH]

ok when you ran the car with the coils out you may have triggered a missfire code. This will through off diagnostics so have all codes cleared and wait for the CEL to come on again. after it does have the codes read again. see if there is a P030x code stored if there is the last number relates to which cyl has misfired and is you likely culprit. that is the cheapest way to go about fixing it as purchasing all six coils is expensive. BUT if the car continues to misfire and will not through a misfire code(P030x) you should replace all six coils. Here is why: when a misfire exists for extended perios of time it can over heat the cat and ultimatly damage it. In which case you will see either a P0420 or P0430 code appear. There is a bulletin that addresses that code as well which reguires a reprogram but even after a reprogram of the ECM it may ultimatly be determined you cat is infact bad. We have done all three repairs at our dealership numourous times so dont be suprised at what might be the end result even after repairs to one part are completed.