BFGoodrich Tires: Buyers Guide and Low Pricing on all Models
Discover the full story behind BFGoodrich Tires—from its historic breakthroughs and off-road dominance to consumer insights and how it stacks up against Michelin, Goodyear and Bridgestone.
History & Innovation
- Founded in 1870 by Dr. Benjamin Franklin Goodrich, the company was a pioneer in rubber hoses and bicycle tires before becoming a major automotive tire producer.
- It produced the first pneumatic car tire in the United States in 1896, introduced the first tubeless tire in 1947, and the nation’s first radial tire in 1965.
- BFGoodrich tires were fitted on the first car to cross the U.S. in 1903, Charles Lindbergh’s Spirit of St. Louis in 1927, and the Space Shuttle Columbia landing gear.
Top BFGoodrich Models & Use Cases
BFGoodrich All‑Terrain T/A KO2 & KO3
- Designed for off-road strength: rugged tread, cut-resistant compound, and excellent traction in adverse terrain.
- User reviews highlight “great traction off-road, minimal road noise” and consistent wear over multiple sets.
BFGoodrich Mud‑Terrain T/A KM3
- Built for mud, rocks, and harsh off-road environments; praised for chunk and puncture resistance but some users report poorer comparisons to Falken and Yokohama models.
Advantage T/A Sport & g‑Force Series
- Touring and performance all-season tires—quiet and comfortable. Advantage Control, however, sometimes fails to meet its 75K-mile warranty claims, per user feedback.
Real-World Feedback from Drivers
Community reviews vary:
“The tires are defectively manufactured … should have lasted at least twice as long…” – Reddit User
“KO2 are great tires… perform better than most alternatives… less impressed on slick and icy roads.” – Reddit User
“Daily driving in snow and ice? Great… grip on solid surfaces… phenomenal.” – Reddit User
Common criticisms include wet-road braking performance, fast dry‑rotting, and balancing issues, particularly with the KO2 and KM3 lines.
Brand Comparison: BFGoodrich vs Competitors
Here is a side-by-side comparison of BFGoodrich, Michelin, Goodyear, and Bridgestone:
| Feature | BFGoodrich Tires | Michelin | Goodyear | Bridgestone |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Parent Company | Michelin | Michelin (owns BFG) | Independently owned | Independently owned |
| Best For | Off‑road strength, SUV/Truck use | Road comfort, performance, longevity | Balanced highway/all-season performance | Ride comfort, wet-road gripping, touring applications |
| Popular Models | KO2, KM3, Advantage T/A Sport, g‑Force | Pilot Sport 4S, Defender T+H | Assurance Fuel Max, Wrangler All‑Terrrain Adventure | Turanza QuietTrack, Dueler All-Terrain |
| Pricing | Mid-range to budget-friendly | Premium | Mid-to-premium | Mid to premium |
| Off-Road Capability | ★★★★★ | ★★★ | ★★★★ | ★★★ |
| Ride Comfort & Noise | Moderate (especially KO lines) | Excellent | Very good | Excellent |
| Wet & Snow Grip | Good in moderate snow, mixed wet grip | Superior | Strong | Very strong |
| Warranty Accuracy | Treadwear mileage claims often over-promised per some user reviews | Usually accurate | Usually accurate | Usually accurate |
Why Choose BFGoodrich? Who Is It Best For?
- Ideal for: Off-road enthusiasts, SUV/truck drivers, motorsports fans, and those seeking durability at a reasonable price.
- Less ideal for: Luxury sedan owners or drivers prioritizing ultra-quiet highway cruising and precision wet braking.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: Is BFGoodrich owned by Michelin?
A: Yes, Michelin acquired BFGoodrich’s tire business in 1988/1990 and continues to produce BFG-branded tires under its umbrella.
Q: How long do BFGoodrich tires last?
A: Many models are rated for 50K–75K miles, though some drivers report significantly less Actual mileage—especially with touring models like Advantage T/A.
Q: Are KO2 tires noisy?
A: KO2 tires are designed for aggressive off-road traction, so they tend to produce more noise than highway touring tires, though balancing improves comfort.
Q: What about KM3 sidewall durability?
A: While KM3 offers strong sidewall protection, some users report dry rot and chunking issues in extreme use; comparisons often favor Falken and Yokohama in reliability .
Final Thoughts
BFGoodrich Tires remain a top choice for rugged performance at a fair price. Their motorsports heritage, proven durability, and wide model selection make them ideal for drivers who demand traction and resilience—on dirt and pavement alike. However, for those prioritizing quiet highway comfort or maximum wet-road braking, Michelin or Goodyear may offer a more refined experience.