BFGoodrich tires are made by Michelin, the French tire giant that has owned the BFGoodrich brand since 1990.
BFGoodrich is an American brand with a long history, best known today for tough all terrain and high performance tires.
Michelin runs its North American operations from Greenville, South Carolina, and is one of the two largest tire makers in the world.
Knowing that Michelin builds BFGoodrich helps explain how a value minded brand still delivers proven engineering and quality.
This article covers who makes BFGoodrich tires, where they are produced, who owns the brand, its history, how it compares to Michelin, and whether the tires are any good.
So let’s get started.
Table of Contents
Who Makes BFGoodrich Tires?
BFGoodrich tires are made by BFGoodrich, which operates as a brand of Michelin.
Michelin acquired BFGoodrich in 1990, along with Uniroyal, as part of the Uniroyal Goodrich Tire Company.
Since then, BFGoodrich tires have been engineered and built within Michelin’s manufacturing network.
That backing gives BFGoodrich access to Michelin’s research, testing, and factory technology.
Even so, Michelin keeps BFGoodrich positioned as a separate brand with its own character, leaning toward off road and motorsport performance.
Where Are BFGoodrich Tires Made?
Many BFGoodrich tires sold in North America are made in the United States.
A major plant in Tuscaloosa, Alabama, builds passenger and light truck radials and has produced tires since 1946.
The brand’s popular all terrain tires are largely built at a large facility in Woodburn, Indiana.
Because Michelin runs a global network, some BFGoodrich tires for certain markets may also come from plants outside the United States.
The sidewall code on each tire identifies the exact plant where it was produced.
Who Owns BFGoodrich Tires?
BFGoodrich is owned by Michelin, formally the Compagnie Generale des Etablissements Michelin.
Michelin paid around 1.5 billion dollars for the Goodrich tire operation in a deal that closed in 1990.
The same purchase brought Uniroyal into the Michelin family, which is why those brands share a common owner.
Today BFGoodrich sits among Michelin’s portfolio of brands as detailed on its company history, serving the value and performance segments of the market.
What Is the History of BFGoodrich?
BFGoodrich is named for its founder, Benjamin Franklin Goodrich, and dates back to the late 1800s.
It claims to be the first American company to make a tire for an automobile, supplying the early Winton car in 1896.
The brand was also the first American maker to produce radial tires, and its tires were even fitted to NASA space shuttles.
After merging with Uniroyal in the 1980s, the tire business passed to Michelin in 1990, where it remains today.
BFGoodrich Tires vs Michelin Tires: How Do They Compare?
Because Michelin owns both brands, comparing them shows how one company covers two segments.
Michelin branded tires sit at the premium end, with a focus on long tread life, fuel efficiency, and refined road manners.
BFGoodrich leans toward rugged off road capability and motorsport flavored performance, often at a lower price than Michelin.
For an off road truck or a spirited budget build, BFGoodrich is the natural pick, while Michelin suits drivers who want premium comfort and efficiency.
Are BFGoodrich Tires Any Good?
BFGoodrich tires are widely regarded as a strong, dependable choice.
The All Terrain T/A line in particular has a loyal following among truck and off road owners for its durability and grip.
Backed by Michelin’s engineering, the brand offers proven quality at a price that usually undercuts premium Michelin lines.
They are not the cheapest budget tires, but they deliver real performance and brand pedigree for the money.
For drivers who want off road toughness or performance backed by a major maker, BFGoodrich is an easy recommendation.
For more on related tire brands, see Where Are Michelin Tyres Made and Who Makes Uniroyal Tires.
Frequently Asked Questions About BFGoodrich Tires
Is BFGoodrich owned by Michelin?
Yes, BFGoodrich has been owned by Michelin since 1990. It operates as a separate brand within the Michelin group.
Are BFGoodrich tires made in the USA?
Many BFGoodrich tires are made in the United States, including at plants in Tuscaloosa, Alabama, and Woodburn, Indiana. Some tires for certain markets are built abroad.
Is BFGoodrich a budget version of Michelin?
BFGoodrich is positioned below Michelin on price, but it is not simply a cheaper copy. It has its own focus on off road and performance tires.
What is BFGoodrich best known for?
BFGoodrich is best known for its All Terrain T/A tires, a favorite among truck and off road drivers. The brand also has a long motorsport history.
I am Jack Neel, a mechanical engineer, researcher, and writer. I created this website to share my knowledge about different brands and products with you. I research the manufacturers behind the brands and provide you with the information you need to make smart buying decisions.