70-k5

2016 XL - extended cab - 4x4 - 2.7/EB
This is my company work vehicle, I got the truck with 45K on the clock and with what I believe are the stock Goodyear Fortitude HT 265/70R17 tires, I'm at 75,000 now and these tires are horrible.
Bad weather is moving in the PNW and I need to make a purchase somewhat quickly, potentially this weekend. This limits me to what tire stores have at their local warehouses.
My last 2012 Screw I put on 285/75R17 Michelin LTX A/T's and loved them.

Looks like the choice I have now are stock sized 265/70R17 Michelin Defender LTX M/S or what I assume is max size without a level or lift 285/75R17 Cooper Discoverer AT3 XLT.

At my local tire store there is about a 60 difference between the two, the larger size being more expensive as well as the Michelins having a $70 cash rebate. Company pays for tires so really a moot point.

The majority of my miles are on road, I sell feed so I do see unimproved farm roads but nothing too serious. I don't do any serious hauling with this truck, the occasional load of gravel or top soil for the garden. I'm not worried about load range.

I know I'd be happy with the quality of the Mechelins but really wanted a bigger tire, I'd order a 285/70R17 LTX if I had more time. I dont k ow anything about the Coopers, does anyone have experience with both tires that could give me some advise?

I'm happy with the ride quality and sound from the stock tires so I imagine either would be an improvement but I dont want to second guess myself for the next 60-70,000 miles.

Takeda

Michelin Defenders

StonedFX4

I've had a couple different sets of Cooper tires on previous trucks (Y2K F150 4x4 and a Sport Trac), Rode very good, quiet, and handled the wet roads well.

chimmike

LTX M/S. Probably the best road tire for light trucks ever made. I had a set of defenders a few years ago on a different vehicle and they were OK, but the LTX is just the best. From new to worn, there are no competitors.

Wicked ace

The Cooper AT3 I put on with a set of take off wheels are better tires than the Wrangler Adventure (load range C is OEM) that came with the truck. Ride, handling, wet / light snow traction and noise all improved. The Michelin are highly rated too. I would go that route if you are not concerned about value. One word is the OEM wheels are only 7.5" wide so it limits how far you can go with a wider tire.

ABolt

I just replaced the OEM Goodyears on my 2016 with Michelin Defenders (P-rated, not LT), and could not be happier. The ride quality on the highway, combined with stopping power in the rain and traction in light snow is unmatched IMHO. I've never heard of anyone being disappointed in their Defenders. Just look at the ratings on TireRack.com...

Takeda

Defenders LTX/MS same tire:

Kingofwylietx

About 4000 miles ago, I was debating the exact same thing (though a different tire size).
In the end, I bought the Michelin Defenders. They are excellent tires. Frankly, with a 4x4, I wanted the more aggressive look of the Coopers....but the nice quiet ride and long lasting tread of the Michelin's won out.

Frankly, unless you do serious offroading, the Michelins will do everything you want.

Unleaded

don't know about the michelins but i had the at3 on an suv and they were just ok. I wouldn't buy them again for my climate - decent in the snow but awful on ice

Summers22

iTrader: (2)

Having owned Coopers and Michelins, its hands down Michelin for me. No comparison.