We are about to install the 3rd serpentine belt tensioner on our R53.
I was just hoping for some opinions on the most reliable replacement at a reasonable price.

 

I just installed an ACdelco branded one (acquired from amazon for about $120). Just like many of the different brands such as Litens, IMA, etc....it was actually an OEM part with the BMW/MINI logos ground off. You should be able to find the exact same thing for between $100-$130 on Amazon, pelicanparts, ecs, etc.

 

How many miles on the car?

 

130,000 miles.
We replaced it once with a cheap one off of ebay around the middle of last year and it looks like it is about to fail.
I was going to bite the bullet and pay the premium price for the Genuine BMW part but if the ACDELCO is really exactly the same quality I may get that one.

 

Shop Amazon. I replace mine every other year.

I have got the exact same part as the OEM one for as low as $48.00. Click link below for one $67.00.



AC Delco one.