how do you change ignition barrel in an 03 nissan micra E?

Have an 03 micra 1.5 diesel. Ignition seems to jam on occasion. sometimes turns fine and other times takes ten mins to get to turn so i can start it. took it to nissan and they said it needs a new ignition barrel which was over £300 +VAT!! no way jose! am looking for a second hand barrel.
can anyone advise me if it could be something else? like the ignition switch? seems strange that i need a new barrel when it varies in how long it takes to turn.

Bill
July 2010

We are having the same problem on an 03 nissan micra, it seems to be ok when the car weather is cool, howeevr if it is sunny and inside temp hot the key turns but is stiff and will not do the last position in ignition to start car.
If we cool the ignition barrael down with ice packs for 1 hour it works.
Have you changed your barrel?

ukchasal
June 2010

where did u get the barrel from & how much was it. My 03 micra wont start sometimes not sure why it does this, I can put the key in & turn it sometimes it turns ok sometimes its stiff, sometimes it will start sometimes it wont, very strange.

smashem
June 2008