Friction Wheel Tensioner.

[Soenvious]

I understand this tensioner is freewheeling when the engine starts from cold and then moves to a drive position when the engine reaches a set temperature.
Mine is in the 'drive' position even when cold starting.
Is there a minimum temperature for this, or does it happen at every restart?
I removed the tensioner and applied 12volts to the connections on the socket and the tensioner moved out, to the cold start position, so it looks as if it's ok.
Also checked fuse 5 under the bonnet, ok.
This car is new to me , so any advice always appreciated.

 

[Pedro]

I advise you watch the You tube video BMW Mini PSA-What you need to know about the friction wheel gives a good insight into how it functions & what goes wrong but bearing in mind it operates from the Engine temp system from the cold start to warm up if the Friction unit is working as normal you may have another issue causing the fault