Searched a bit and didn't see anything in particular on this subject.

has anyones gone bad (outside of niglect for maintenace) i.e. high mileage w/out replacement.

Can a new one go bad if messed with a few times (pressed in to release pressure for a second to maneuver the timing belt.

Has anyones ever purchased a new one that has been bad?

Since it's hydraulic, these thoughts crossed my mind when installing it. I've never had a problem with one but I was wondering if anyone has since I've seen solid tensioners for sale on line.

If you have accurate feedback please feel free to share it.

thanks!

I have never seen one bad, but them again, most mileage on any I have done is 70k.

thanks! Just a curiousity as I have only seen 1 case and it was on here.

There's been more failures reported than one on here.

I'm sure there have, I've just heard about 1 first hand

on my dsm i got a new one from auto zone and 3 days later the belt skipped, got new one from mitsu 20k on it and no problems switched to BLE solid tensioner now and i love it no worry's of it failing

The tensioner can fail if adjusted incorrectly meaning the gap is too large between the arm and body. If you are unsure set the tension and turn the engine over (making sure it's in time) and wait an hour and see if it has moved. If not it should be fine..if it has I wouldn't use it. Also look for the usual signs of leaking as well. I have seen one fail on an Audi A8 but caught it in time. Out of 100 or so that's the only failure I have seen first hand. It was also non OEM which is the most important part. Stick with OEM..customer wanted to save 40 bucks almost costed him well over 5k.