2002 Q45 Cat Converter bad/threw code P1320

A Q45 forum / Cima forum for the President of Infiniti's lineup. Brought to you by Infiniti Parts USA, your OEM source for Q45 parts!
neagan
Posts: 105
Joined: Thu Mar 11, 2004 5:28 pm
Car: 2002 Q45 * 2001 QX4* 2008 G37* 1988 IROC* 1941 Dodge Army Trux* Racecars

Post

On the freeway today my 2002 suddenly lit up with 'Check Engine Lite' AND TCS warning failure. I ran the code and came up with only a P1320. I know I've had a rattling catalytic converter ( 86k miles) the past few months. I'm assuming the rattling cat might have tossed a knock sensor?????

I've replaced many a converter in the past with aftermarket units, but this is the first vehicle I've had an issue with that is designed with multiple converters. How many are there; 2, or 4? I live in the Nazi Smog state of California and want to keep the Infiniti legal. What are my options? Why so many catalytic converters and mufflers?

I've already cut the back two mufflers off and added a nice Borla stainless type unit. I havn't had time to look at the muffler unit with the ''flapper'' to figure out what that's there for yet either. Any care to educate me? And if I'm wrong on the P1320 diagnosis, please correct me there.

When I stopped the Q45, shut the engine off and restarted it, the traction control started working correctly again, however the Check engine lite stayed lit. Thanks, Nitro-Nicky


User avatar
Lokim
Posts: 681
Joined: Mon May 10, 2010 12:47 am
Car: 1994 Infiniti Q45 acquired 4/25/10 w/192K
Now at 222K and going strong!
Location: Seattle, WA
Contact:

Post

A P1320 code is an "ignition signal" code, according to Alldata. Alldata says "Malfunction is detected when the ignition signal in the primary circuit is not sent to the ECM during engine cranking or running." Could be a wiring problem, a bad power transistor unit (built in to coils), condenser, or cam or crank position sensor. Get a scanner w/ live data stream on it and watch the cam/crank sensor data and look for glitches. The rattling cat is likely a heat shield, get the car in the air and start tapping on stuff...

User avatar
Q45man1
Posts: 287
Joined: Sat Apr 22, 2006 8:02 am
Car: 2002 Q45, 1994 Q45

Post

Some early prod 02Q have problems with intake manifold developing minor cracks. And replaced under warranty. In your case take it to a muffler shop and have it look at. Minor cracks are repairable, shop can weld it and probably charge you $50-$100.

For the P1320 code, take it to refutable shop and have a complete test. If you live in the LA area, I know a shop in the San Fernando Valley (CarZone) that caters more to Infiniti cars. Owners are Q45 experts.


Return to “Q45 Forum / Cima Forum”