Looking for a rugged all-terrain tire that can tackle weekend trails without sacrificing on-road comfort? The BFGoodrich All-Terrain T/A KO3 might be just what you need. But with so many great off-road options already out there, is this newer model really worth it?
The BFGoodrich All-Terrain T/A KO3 delivers excellent traction on dirt, sand, and wet surfaces (for an AT tire), along with a durable design that stands up to harsh conditions. However, some owners report difficulty balancing these tires on heavier trucks, and the ride can feel stiff if you opt for higher load ranges.
In this article, we’ll compare the KO3 side by side with our recommended alternatives, discuss the most common problems reported by real-world users, and share detailed performance stats from our tire surveys. By the end, you’ll know whether the KO3 is the right choice for your off-road adventures.
Side-By-Side Comparison
Price Comparison
| Tire | Price Category |
|---|---|
| BFGoodrich All-Terrain T/A KO3 | Premium |
| BFGoodrich All-Terrain T/A KO2 | Premium |
| Falken WildPeak A/T3W | Average |
| Sumitomo Encounter AT | Budget |
Wet Performance
| Tire | Hydroplaning Resistance | Wet Traction |
|---|---|---|
| BFGoodrich All-Terrain T/A KO3 | 9.1 | 8.9 |
| BFGoodrich All-Terrain T/A KO2 | 8.8 | 8.7 |
| Falken WildPeak A/T3W | 8.8 | 8.9 |
| Sumitomo Encounter AT | 8.7 | 8.8 |
Dry Performance
| Tire | Corner Stability | Dry Traction | Steering Response |
|---|---|---|---|
| BFGoodrich All-Terrain T/A KO3 | 9.2 | 9.4 | 9.1 |
| BFGoodrich All-Terrain T/A KO2 | 9.1 | 9.4 | 9.1 |
| Falken WildPeak A/T3W | 9.0 | 9.3 | 8.9 |
| Sumitomo Encounter AT | 9.0 | 9.3 | 9.0 |
Winter/Snow Performance
| Tire | Light Snow Traction | Deep Snow Traction | Ice Traction |
|---|---|---|---|
| BFGoodrich All-Terrain T/A KO3 | 9.2 | 9.0 | 8.3 |
| BFGoodrich All-Terrain T/A KO2 | 9.1 | 9.0 | 8.0 |
| Falken WildPeak A/T3W | 8.9 | 8.7 | 7.9 |
| Sumitomo Encounter AT | 8.9 | 8.7 | 7.9 |
Comfort Performance
| Tire | Ride Quality | Noise |
|---|---|---|
| BFGoodrich All-Terrain T/A KO3 | 8.9 | 8.9 |
| BFGoodrich All-Terrain T/A KO2 | 8.6 | 8.3 |
| Falken WildPeak A/T3W | 8.7 | 8.4 |
| Sumitomo Encounter AT | 8.8 | 8.4 |
Treadwear Performance
| Tire | Treadwear |
|---|---|
| BFGoodrich All-Terrain T/A KO3 | 9.2 |
| BFGoodrich All-Terrain T/A KO2 | 8.7 |
| Falken WildPeak A/T3W | 8.5 |
| Sumitomo Encounter AT | 8.7 |
BFGoodrich All-Terrain T/A KO3
Customer Rating
Overall Rating
9.0 of 10
Wet Weather
9.0 of 10
Winter Weather
8.9 of 10
All Terrain
9.2 of 10
Tread Wear
9.2 of 10
Dry Weather
9.2 of 10
Ride Comfort
8.9 of 10
UTQG
Uniform Tire Quality Grade
UTQG Treadwear Rating: N/A
UTQG Traction Rating: N/A
UTQG Temperature Rating: N/A
Mileage Warranty
6 Years / 50,000 Miles
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Key Performance Metrics
Dirt Grip: 9.4 of 10
Mud Grip: 8.9 of 10
Sand Grip: 9.2 of 10
Rock Grip: 9.3 of 10
Hydroplaning: 9.1 of 10
Wet Grip: 8.9 of 10
Cornering: 9.2 of 10
Dry Grip: 9.4 of 10
Responsiveness: 9.1 of 10
Mild Snow Grip: 9.2 of 10
Heavy Snow Grip: 9.0 of 10
Ice Grip: 8.3 of 10
Comfort Level: 8.9 of 10
Road Noise: 8.9 of 10
The BFGoodrich All-Terrain T/A KO3 is built for drivers who want serious off-road capability without sacrificing too much on-road comfort. It’s well-suited for trucks and SUVs that see a mix of highway and rough trail use. While it has excellent traction in many conditions, some owners have noticed specific problems like balancing issues and stiffer rides in higher load ranges.
Dry Performance
Rating: Well Above Average
The KO3 excels on dry pavement. With a high corner stability rating (9.2) and outstanding dry traction (9.4), it feels planted and confident during everyday driving and highway speeds. Steering response is also strong, so you can expect good feedback and control on curvy roads. Despite its off-road focus, it still performs surprisingly well for typical street use.
Wet Performance
Rating: Above Average
While the KO3 has impressive wet traction (8.9) and hydroplaning resistance (9.1) on paper, some drivers report reduced grip in heavy rain or slick conditions. This may be because the tread design, which is optimized for off-road use, can sometimes struggle on smooth, wet roads. Overall, it still does a good job of channeling water away, but keep in mind that a few owners have reported slipping during fast cornering or quick acceleration.
Off-Road Performance
Rating: Well Above Average
Off-road is where the KO3 truly shines. It has excellent dirt (9.4), sand (9.2), mud (8.9), and rock traction (9.3). Whether you’re climbing rough trails or driving across loose surfaces, this tire provides sure-footed grip. However, in sticky mud or deep snow mixed with mud, some users say the tread can pack up, reducing traction until it clears.
Winter/Snow Performance
Rating: Above Average
With an overall winter rating of 8.9, the KO3 handles light and deep snow pretty well. However, it can lose some grip on icy surfaces, where it scores 8.3. While that’s still decent for an all-terrain tire, drivers in very icy climates might need specialized winter tires for the safest performance. For typical snowy conditions, though, the KO3 remains reliable.
Ride Comfort and Noise Level
Rating: Above Average
Many drivers find the KO3 comfortable, with ride quality and noise both rated at 8.9. Still, owners of heavier trucks sometimes struggle with balancing these tires, leading to vibrations at highway speeds. Also, if you choose a higher load range (like Load Range F), you may feel a firmer ride when the truck isn’t loaded. Aside from these issues, most people say the noise level is reasonable for an aggressive tread design.
Treadwear and Longevity
Rating: Well Above Average
The KO3 shows a treadwear rating of 9.2, which suggests it wears slowly and should last a long time, even under off-road stress. Of course, factors like driving style, vehicle weight, and rotation schedules can influence how long the tread actually holds up. Overall, it’s built to handle rugged conditions while still delivering a solid lifespan.
Pros
- Excellent off-road traction in dirt, sand, and on rocks
- Strong dry performance for an all-terrain tire
- Good overall tread life
- Reasonable noise level given its aggressive design
Cons
- Some drivers struggle with balancing, especially on heavier trucks
- Wet traction can be inconsistent under heavy rain or fast driving
- Higher load ranges may lead to a stiffer ride
- Mud and slush can pack into the tread, reducing grip temporarily
Value Analysis
Rating: Above Average
The KO3 offers a strong mix of off-road ability and on-road usability, which can justify its premium price for serious adventurers. If you don’t need its rugged features every day, you might find cheaper tires that do well enough on normal roads. But for drivers who split their time between highways and trails, the KO3’s durability and performance can make it a worthwhile investment.
The Verdict
The BFGoodrich All-Terrain T/A KO3 is a top choice if off-road performance is high on your list. It’s built to handle tough conditions while still providing a comfortable on-road experience for everyday driving.
However, if wet traction and easy balancing are your highest priorities, you might want to check out alternative all-terrain options with a slightly more road-focused design. Overall, the KO3’s impressive off-road skills, solid tread life, and decent comfort make it a standout for adventurers seeking a reliable all-terrain tire.
BFGoodrich All-Terrain T/A KO3 Problems
While the BFGoodrich All-Terrain T/A KO3 has many strengths, no tire is perfect. Some owners have reported a few issues worth knowing about. It’s also important to remember that regular tire rotations, proper air pressure, and keeping your vehicle aligned can all affect your overall experience. Problems can sometimes be caused by maintenance lapses rather than the tire itself.
Below are the most common concerns we’ve seen from real-world feedback. If these issues worry you, take a look at our recommended alternatives before making a final decision.
Wet Road Performance
Some users say the KO3 can slip on wet pavement or during sudden acceleration on rainy roads. Though its hydroplaning resistance (9.1) and wet traction (8.9) ratings are strong, the aggressive tread pattern may not grip smooth, soaked surfaces as firmly as certain road-focused all-terrain tires. If you drive in heavy rain often, you might notice this more.
Balancing Difficulties
A few owners report having trouble balancing the KO3, especially on heavier trucks. These drivers mention persistent vibrations at highway speeds, even after multiple attempts to fix the issue. If your wheels aren’t balanced correctly, it can cause uneven tread wear and reduce ride comfort over time.
Load Range Stiffness
Because the KO3 comes in higher load ranges (like Load Range F), the tire sidewalls can feel stiffer. This design is excellent for towing or hauling heavy loads, but it might make the ride harsher when your vehicle isn’t carrying much weight. If comfort is a top priority, consider a lower load range if your truck’s specs allow it.
Mud and Snow Packing
Some drivers who took the KO3 through deep snow mixed with mud found that the treads could pack up, limiting grip. While it’s still a solid performer in most off-road conditions, you might need to spin the tires or clear out packed mud occasionally to maintain traction. For typical conditions, it does fine, but be aware of this in muddy or slushy environments.
The Bottomline
The KO3 does a lot of things right, but a few drivers have run into issues like wet-road slipping, balancing struggles, and stiffer rides in certain load ranges. These problems are not universal, and many owners have a smooth experience. If you’re worried about these concerns, make sure to keep your tires well-maintained and explore alternative all-terrain options before deciding.
BFGoodrich All-Terrain T/A KO3 Alternatives
While the Vredestein Quatrac Pro+ performs well for most drivers, some of its reported issues—like heavier fuel use, road noise, and hydroplaning in heavy rain—might give you pause. If these concerns sound serious to you, here are three recommended alternatives at different price levels that could better match your driving needs.
BFGoodrich All-Terrain T/A KO2
Overall: The BFGoodrich All-Terrain T/A KO2 is considered the gold standard for off-road performance with millions of miles reported. It’s designed for drivers who want top-tier durability and traction in rough conditions, but it also delivers respectable on-road comfort.
Performance Highlights:
- Off-Road: Excellent for dirt, sand, and rocky trails, backed by its proven track record and tough sidewalls.
- Wet Weather: Very good wet traction, although slightly lower hydroplaning resistance (8.8) than the KO3’s early ratings.
- Comfort and Noise: Rides a bit stiffer than some all-terrain tires, but many owners find it manageable. Noise can be noticeable, yet tolerable, over long drives.
- Treadwear: Rated at 8.7, so it should last a long time, especially with proper maintenance.
Falken WildPeak A/T3W
Overall: The Falken WildPeak A/T3W aims to balance daily driving comfort with off-road capability. It typically costs less than ultra-premium options and scores well in wet and snowy conditions.
Performance Highlights:
- Off-Road: Dirt and sand performance is on par with many high-end tires, although mud traction (8.4) is a bit lower than KO3’s.
- Wet Weather: Excellent hydroplaning resistance (8.8) and wet traction (8.9), making it a steady performer on rainy roads.
- Ride Quality and Noise: Generally smoother and quieter compared to more aggressive options like the KO3 and KO2.
- Treadwear: Good longevity (8.5), but not the absolute longest-lasting in the category.
Sumitomo Encounter AT
Overall: The Sumitomo Encounter AT is a budget-friendly all-terrain tire known for reliable performance in varied conditions. It may not match the KO3’s off-road prowess, but it offers a strong value for the price.
Performance Highlights:
- Off-Road: Solid dirt and rock traction (8.7), though it’s not as aggressive in deep mud or extreme trails.
- Wet Weather: Above-average wet traction (8.8) and hydroplaning resistance (8.7), offering good peace of mind in rain.
- Comfort and Noise: Scores 8.6 for ride quality, which is fairly comfortable for a budget all-terrain. Noise levels are moderate.
- Treadwear: Rated 8.7, which is impressive for a tire at this price point.
Each of these alternative tires addresses certain issues you might face with the KO3. The KO2 offers a more proven track record and very similar off-road strength, but still has a slightly stiff ride. The WildPeak A/T3W leans toward comfort and easier balancing, which could help if you’re worried about vibrations or on-road handling. Finally, the Sumitomo Encounter AT provides decent off-road performance at a lower cost, making it a good pick for drivers who want all-terrain capability without the higher price tag.
Resources
Below are some links you may find helpful when learning about tires
Final Thoughts
The BFGoodrich All-Terrain T/A KO3 offers strong off-road abilities and good on-road manners, making it an appealing choice for anyone who needs versatility. Thanks to its high traction scores in dirt, sand, and rocks, it’s well-suited for weekend adventures. Despite being a newer tire with fewer total miles reported, many drivers have shared positive experiences.
However, the KO3 may not be the best fit for everyone. Some owners report balancing issues on heavier trucks, and while wet traction ratings are high, a few drivers say it can slip on slick roads. These concerns aren’t widespread, but they’re worth keeping in mind if you deal with frequent rain or have a full-size truck that’s sensitive to vibration. The KO3 also comes at a premium cost, so if your main goal is saving money, you may want to consider more budget-friendly options.
Overall, the BFGoodrich All-Terrain T/A KO3 stands out for its off-road performance and solid treadwear, offering a good balance of capability and durability. If you’re looking for a rugged tire that can handle both the highway and the trails, the KO3 is worth a look. But if you need a more proven track record or have specific concerns about cost and comfort, check out alternatives like the BFGoodrich All-Terrain T/A KO2, Falken WildPeak A/T3W, or Sumitomo Encounter AT. At the end of the day, it all comes down to your needs and driving style.
Good luck and happy motoring.
