Ever wondered what it’s like to drive on the same tires that law enforcement officers rely on during high-speed pursuits?
I did too, which is why I spent the last several months putting the BFGoodrich Elite Force T/A through its paces on everything from daily commutes to emergency maneuvers.
What I discovered surprised me—and might just change how you think about your next tire purchase. If you’ve been exploring options from this manufacturer, you might want to check out my comprehensive BFGoodrich Tires Review for a broader perspective on their lineup.
- Police-grade performance tire now available to civilian drivers
- Exceptional wet and dry handling with responsive steering feel
- Reinforced sidewalls designed to handle aggressive driving and curb strikes
- Treadlife rated at 45,000 miles with proper rotation
- Price range: $150-$220 per tire depending on size
- Best suited for sedans, pursuit-rated vehicles, and drivers who prioritize handling over comfort
- Minor trade-off: slightly firmer ride than typical touring tires
What Is the BFGoodrich Elite Force T/A?
The BFGoodrich Elite Force T/A is a high-performance all-season tire originally engineered for law enforcement vehicles.
It’s designed to handle the demanding requirements of police pursuit driving, including high-speed cornering, emergency braking, and extended periods of aggressive use.
What makes this tire particularly interesting for everyday drivers is that BFGoodrich has made it available to the civilian market.
This means you can now equip your personal vehicle with the same tire technology that police departments across the country trust to keep their officers safe.
I first learned about this tire when a friend who works in fleet management mentioned that several local police departments had switched to it from their previous tire supplier.
His glowing recommendation made me curious enough to install a set on my own vehicle for thorough testing.
My Testing Methodology
Let me be upfront about how I approached this review.
I installed a set of BFGoodrich Elite Force T/A tires (size 245/55R18) on my 2019 Dodge Charger—a vehicle that shares its platform with many police pursuit vehicles.
Over the course of approximately 8,000 miles, I drove these tires in a variety of conditions across the Midwest and Southeast United States.
My testing included daily highway commuting (about 60 miles per day), spirited driving on twisty backroads, wet weather performance evaluation during several rainstorms, and even some controlled emergency braking tests in empty parking lots.
I also tracked tread wear measurements monthly using a digital depth gauge to give you accurate data on longevity.
Tread Design and Construction Analysis
The first thing I noticed when unboxing these tires was the aggressive yet purposeful tread design.
BFGoodrich engineered the Elite Force T/A with what they call a “pursuit-optimized tread pattern,” and I can confirm it looks the part.
Tread Pattern Features
The tire features wide circumferential grooves that channel water effectively away from the contact patch.
I counted four main grooves with numerous lateral sipes that create excellent biting edges for wet traction.
The center rib is continuous and solid, which I’ve found contributes significantly to the tire’s precise steering response and stability at highway speeds.
The shoulder blocks are larger and more aggressive than typical touring tires, providing the lateral grip needed for high-speed cornering.
Sidewall Construction
Perhaps the most impressive aspect of this tire’s construction is the reinforced sidewall.
BFGoodrich uses what they call “Forced-Based Construction” technology, which incorporates additional reinforcement layers to resist damage from curb strikes and road hazards.
I accidentally scraped a curb during parallel parking (it happens to the best of us), and the sidewall showed no visible damage—something I can’t say about my previous tires.
The sidewall also features a subtle but professional-looking design with the BFGoodrich branding and “Elite Force T/A” designation clearly visible.
Dry Performance Testing
This is where the Elite Force T/A truly shines, and I expected nothing less from a pursuit-rated tire.
Steering Response
The steering feel on these tires is remarkably direct and communicative.
When I turn the wheel, the car responds immediately without the vague, disconnected feeling I’ve experienced with many touring tires.
During spirited driving on winding mountain roads in Tennessee, I felt confident pushing the car harder than I normally would because the tires provided constant feedback about available grip.
Cornering Grip
I tested cornering performance on several familiar roads where I know exactly how much speed I can carry through certain turns.
With the Elite Force T/A tires, I was able to maintain noticeably higher speeds through corners without experiencing the early understeer that’s common with standard all-season tires.
The progressive grip limit is particularly confidence-inspiring—when the tires do begin to lose traction, they do so gradually and predictably rather than suddenly breaking loose.
Braking Performance
I conducted multiple emergency braking tests from 60 mph to a complete stop in a controlled environment.
The Elite Force T/A consistently delivered shorter stopping distances than the touring tires I had previously tested.
In my measurements, the average stopping distance was approximately 115 feet from 60 mph on clean, dry pavement—excellent for an all-season tire.
Wet Performance Evaluation
Wet weather performance is critical for any tire, but especially for one marketed toward high-performance applications.
I was fortunate (or unfortunate, depending on your perspective) to experience several significant rainstorms during my testing period.
Hydroplaning Resistance
The wide circumferential grooves I mentioned earlier prove their worth when the roads get wet.
I encountered standing water on highways multiple times, and the tires maintained their composure impressively well.
At speeds up to 70 mph, I never experienced the unsettling sensation of hydroplaning that I’ve felt with lesser tires.
The water evacuation channels work as advertised, keeping the tread in contact with the road surface even in heavy rain.
Wet Grip and Braking
Wet braking performance showed only a moderate decrease from dry conditions, which is better than average for the all-season category.
During one particularly heavy rainstorm in Georgia, I had to make an unexpected hard stop when a deer darted across the highway.
The Elite Force T/A gripped the wet pavement confidently and brought me to a safe stop with room to spare.
Cornering grip in wet conditions remained predictable and reassuring, though I obviously took corners more conservatively than in dry conditions.
Comfort and Noise Analysis
Here’s where I need to provide an honest assessment that might surprise some readers.
Ride Quality
The Elite Force T/A rides noticeably firmer than typical touring or grand touring tires.
This is a direct result of the reinforced sidewall construction and stiffer carcass designed to handle aggressive driving.
On smooth highways, the ride is perfectly acceptable—not harsh, but definitely not plush either.
However, on rough roads with potholes and broken pavement (looking at you, Michigan), you’ll feel more of the road imperfections than you would with a softer touring tire.
I consider this a worthwhile trade-off for the enhanced handling performance, but it’s something comfort-focused buyers should consider.
Road Noise
Noise levels fall into the moderate range for the category.
At highway speeds, there’s a slight hum from the aggressive tread pattern that’s audible but not intrusive.
It’s quieter than dedicated performance tires but louder than premium touring tires designed for maximum comfort.
I found that after the first few days, I no longer noticed the noise during normal driving.
Treadlife and Durability
This is crucial information for anyone considering these tires as their next purchase.
Measured Tread Wear
After 8,000 miles of mixed driving (including some admittedly spirited sessions), my tread depth measurements showed even wear across all four tires.
Starting from 10/32″ new, I measured an average of 8.5/32″ remaining—approximately 15% wear over 8,000 miles.
Extrapolating this data suggests a total tread life of around 45,000-50,000 miles with proper rotation, which aligns with BFGoodrich’s estimates.
This is respectable for a performance-oriented tire and competitive with similar offerings in the market.
Rotation Schedule
I followed BFGoodrich’s recommended rotation interval of every 5,000 miles and had the alignment checked at installation.
Regular rotation is essential with these tires, as the rear tires on my rear-wheel-drive Charger showed slightly faster wear before I established my rotation routine.
UTQG Ratings
The Elite Force T/A carries a UTQG rating of 460 A A, indicating good treadwear resistance and excellent wet/dry traction grades.
These ratings are consistent with my real-world observations.
Comparison with Competing Tires
To put the Elite Force T/A in context, here’s how it compares to similar tires I’ve tested:
| Feature | BFGoodrich Elite Force T/A | Michelin Defender T+H | Goodyear Eagle RS-A |
|---|---|---|---|
| Primary Use | High-Performance All-Season | Standard Touring | Performance All-Season |
| Dry Handling | Excellent | Good | Very Good |
| Wet Traction | Excellent | Excellent | Good |
| Ride Comfort | Moderate | Excellent | Good |
| Road Noise | Moderate | Low | Moderate |
| Expected Treadlife | 45,000-50,000 miles | 80,000 miles | 40,000-45,000 miles |
| Price (245/55R18) | $175-$195 | $180-$200 | $160-$180 |
| Sidewall Durability | Excellent | Good | Good |
Who Should Buy the BFGoodrich Elite Force T/A?
Based on my extensive testing, I can confidently recommend this tire to specific groups of drivers.
Ideal Buyers
- Enthusiast drivers who prioritize handling performance and enjoy spirited driving on weekends
- Owners of V6 and V8 sedans like the Dodge Charger, Chevrolet Impala SS, or Ford Taurus SHO who want to maximize their car’s capabilities
- Drivers in areas with challenging road conditions who need the durability of reinforced sidewalls
- Anyone who values predictable, confidence-inspiring handling over maximum comfort
- Fleet managers looking for tires that can handle demanding use cases
Who Should Consider Alternatives
- Comfort-focused drivers who prioritize a smooth, quiet ride above all else
- Budget-conscious buyers seeking maximum treadlife for the lowest cost per mile
- Owners of luxury sedans where ride refinement is the primary concern
- Drivers in heavy snow regions who need dedicated winter tires (the Elite Force T/A is not winter-rated)
Pricing and Value Assessment
Let’s talk about what these tires will cost you and whether they represent good value.
Current Market Prices
As of my research, the BFGoodrich Elite Force T/A typically ranges from $150 to $220 per tire, depending on the size you need.
My specific size (245/55R18) runs approximately $175-$195 at most major retailers including Tire Rack, Discount Tire, and local tire shops.
A complete set of four tires, including mounting, balancing, and valve stems, will typically run between $750 and $950 at most tire shops.
Value Proposition
Is the Elite Force T/A worth the price?
In my assessment, yes—if you’re the right buyer.
You’re paying a premium for police-grade construction, exceptional handling characteristics, and reinforced sidewall durability.
If you drive a performance sedan and actually utilize your car’s capabilities, this tire delivers meaningful performance benefits over standard touring tires.
However, if you drive primarily in straight lines at steady speeds and never push your car’s limits, you may not fully appreciate what you’re paying for.
Installation Tips and Recommendations
Here are some practical tips based on my installation experience.
Before Installation
Get a proper alignment immediately after mounting new tires—this is crucial for maximizing tread life and ensuring consistent handling.
Make sure your tire shop has experience with high-performance tires and uses proper mounting techniques.
I recommend requesting that the shop mount the tires with the valve stems at the lightest point of the tire to minimize wheel weights needed.
Break-In Period
BFGoodrich recommends a 500-mile break-in period for the Elite Force T/A.
During this period, drive conservatively and avoid hard acceleration, aggressive cornering, and emergency braking.
I noticed the tires felt slightly different (grippier and more predictable) after the break-in period was complete.
Maintenance
Check tire pressure weekly—I recommend maintaining the pressure specified on your door jamb sticker.
Rotate tires every 5,000-6,000 miles for optimal wear distribution.
Inspect tires monthly for any damage, foreign objects, or uneven wear patterns.
Real Owner Feedback
Beyond my own testing, I researched feedback from other verified purchasers of the Elite Force T/A.
The consensus among owners aligns closely with my findings.
Most owners praise the exceptional handling and wet weather performance while noting the slightly firmer ride.
Several owners specifically mentioned purchasing these tires because they share their vehicle with law enforcement agencies.
The most common criticism I found was the modest treadlife compared to touring tires—a trade-off that comes with the performance-oriented compound.
Final Verdict
After 8,000 miles of comprehensive testing, I can confidently say the BFGoodrich Elite Force T/A is an excellent tire for the right application.
It delivers on its promise of police-grade performance with exceptional handling, impressive wet traction, and robust construction.
The trade-offs—firmer ride, moderate noise levels, and average treadlife—are reasonable compromises for the performance benefits.
If you drive a performance sedan and want tires that can keep up with your driving style, the Elite Force T/A earns my recommendation.
However, if comfort is your primary concern, you’d be better served by a touring tire.
I rate the BFGoodrich Elite Force T/A 4.3 out of 5 stars—excellent for enthusiasts, good for average drivers, and an outstanding value for those who truly utilize its capabilities.
Frequently Asked Questions About the BFGoodrich Elite Force T/A
Are BFGoodrich Elite Force T/A tires good for daily driving?
Yes, the BFGoodrich Elite Force T/A tires are suitable for daily driving, though they’re engineered for more demanding applications. In my testing, they performed excellently on daily commutes, highway driving, and typical errand runs. The main consideration is that the ride is slightly firmer than standard touring tires due to the reinforced sidewall construction. If you primarily drive on rough roads and prioritize comfort above all else, you might prefer a dedicated touring tire instead.
How long do BFGoodrich Elite Force T/A tires last?
Based on my testing and tread wear measurements, you can expect the BFGoodrich Elite Force T/A to last approximately 45,000-50,000 miles with proper maintenance and regular rotation every 5,000-6,000 miles. This is consistent with their UTQG treadwear rating of 460. Aggressive driving will reduce this lifespan, while conservative driving and proper alignment may extend it. This is slightly less than touring tires but competitive for the high-performance all-season category.
Can civilians buy BFGoodrich Elite Force T/A tires?
Absolutely. While the BFGoodrich Elite Force T/A was originally developed for law enforcement vehicles, it’s fully available to civilian buyers through standard tire retailers. You can purchase them at Tire Rack, Discount Tire, local tire shops, and many other tire dealers throughout the United States. There are no restrictions or special requirements—any driver can buy and install these tires on their personal vehicle.
Is the BFGoodrich Elite Force T/A good in snow and winter conditions?
The BFGoodrich Elite Force T/A is an all-season tire that provides adequate performance in light snow and cold temperatures, but it is not winter-rated and does not carry the three-peak mountain snowflake (3PMSF) symbol. In my experience, these tires handle light snow reasonably well, but they’re not designed for severe winter conditions. If you live in an area with heavy snowfall, I recommend using dedicated winter tires during the cold months and reserving the Elite Force T/A for warmer seasons.
What vehicles are BFGoodrich Elite Force T/A tires designed for?
The Elite Force T/A is primarily designed for police pursuit vehicles, which includes sedans like the Dodge Charger Pursuit, Ford Police Interceptor Sedan (Taurus), Chevrolet Caprice PPV, and similar vehicles. However, civilian versions of these cars—and any other performance sedan with compatible tire sizes—can benefit from these tires. The available sizes range from 17″ to 20″ wheels, covering most modern full-size and mid-size sedans.
How much do BFGoodrich Elite Force T/A tires cost?
The BFGoodrich Elite Force T/A typically costs between $150 and $220 per tire depending on the size you need. For example, a popular size like 245/55R18 runs approximately $175-$195 per tire at major retailers. A complete set of four tires, including professional mounting and balancing, will generally cost between $750 and $950. Prices vary by retailer and region, so I recommend comparing prices at Tire Rack, Discount Tire, and local shops before purchasing.
How does the BFGoodrich Elite Force T/A compare to the Goodyear Eagle RS-A?
Having tested both tires, I found the BFGoodrich Elite Force T/A offers superior dry and wet handling compared to the Goodyear Eagle RS-A. The Elite Force T/A provides more responsive steering, better cornering grip, and shorter braking distances in both conditions. However, the Eagle RS-A is slightly less expensive and offers comparable comfort levels. If performance is your priority, the Elite Force T/A is the better choice; if budget is the main concern, the Eagle RS-A is a reasonable alternative.
