Cooper Discoverer S/T Maxx Review: The Ultimate Off-Road Tire

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The Cooper Discoverer S/T Maxx is an all-terrain tire designed for drivers who demand exceptional off-road capability without sacrificing on-road performance. This versatile tire is engineered to tackle a wide range of terrains, from rugged trails to city streets, making it an ideal choice for pickup trucks, SUVs, and other off-road enthusiasts.

Featuring an aggressive tread pattern with deep, interlocking grooves and sturdy shoulder lugs, the Discoverer S/T Maxx provides excellent traction and grip on loose surfaces like mud, gravel, and sand. At the same time, its optimized tread design and silica-enhanced compound ensure reliable handling and a comfortable ride on paved roads.

Cooper Tire has incorporated several key features into the Discoverer S/T Maxx, including stone ejectors, biting edges, and a high-density bead bundle, all designed to enhance durability, traction, and overall performance. The tire’s reinforced construction and cut-and-chip-resistant tread compound further contribute to its ruggedness and longevity.

Whether you’re an avid off-roader or simply need a tire that can handle occasional adventures off the beaten path, the Cooper Discoverer S/T Maxx is engineered to deliver the perfect balance of on-road comfort and off-road capability. Its versatility and dependability make it a popular choice among drivers who demand a tire that can keep up with their active lifestyles.

Tread Design and Off-Road Performance

The Cooper Discoverer S/T Maxx boasts an aggressive, mud-terrain tread pattern designed to conquer the toughest off-road conditions. The tread features a rugged, alternating shoulder lug pattern that provides exceptional grip and traction on loose surfaces like mud, rocks, and sand. The deep, staggered tread blocks and wide grooves effectively expel mud and debris, enhancing the tire’s self-cleaning capabilities and ensuring consistent traction even in the most challenging terrain.

On muddy trails, the Discoverer S/T Maxx’s tread design excels, biting into the soft ground and providing impressive forward momentum. The tire’s robust shoulder lugs and reinforced sidewalls offer reliable grip and stability when navigating over rocks and obstacles, minimizing the risk of punctures or damage.

When tackling sandy environments, the tire’s open tread pattern and specialized scooping elements effectively channel sand away from the tread, preventing it from packing and maintaining optimal traction. The Discoverer S/T Maxx’s off-road prowess extends to various terrains, delivering exceptional performance and confidence in even the most demanding outdoor adventures.

On-Road Handling and Comfort

The Cooper Discoverer S/T Maxx is designed as an all-terrain tire, but it still manages to deliver a surprisingly comfortable and composed ride on paved roads. Despite its aggressive tread pattern and rugged construction, this tire exhibits impressive steering response and cornering grip when driving on highways or city streets.

One of the standout features of the S/T Maxx is its ability to provide a smooth and compliant ride, even over rough or uneven surfaces. The tire’s advanced tread compound and internal construction help absorb road imperfections, minimizing vibrations and harshness that can often plague all-terrain tires.

In dry conditions, the tire offers excellent stability and traction, allowing for confident handling and braking. The tread design features a combination of rigid tread blocks and siping that work together to maximize grip and control during cornering maneuvers or sudden lane changes.

While the S/T Maxx performs admirably on dry pavement, its on-road capabilities are somewhat reduced in wet conditions. The tread pattern can struggle to evacuate water effectively, leading to a slight decrease in hydroplaning resistance and braking performance compared to dedicated highway tires. However, for an all-terrain tire, the wet traction remains reasonably good.

Overall, the Cooper Discoverer S/T Maxx strikes an impressive balance between off-road capability and on-road comfort and handling. While it may not match the precision and refinement of a dedicated highway tire, it offers a smooth and composed ride, with responsive steering and stable cornering characteristics that make it a versatile choice for daily driving or long road trips.

Treadwear and Durability

The Cooper Discoverer S/T Maxx is engineered for exceptional treadwear and durability, making it a reliable choice for off-road enthusiasts and those who demand long-lasting performance. With its advanced tread compound and reinforced construction, this tire is designed to withstand the rigors of challenging terrains while providing a prolonged tread life.

Cooper backs the Discoverer S/T Maxx with a generous 60,000-mile treadwear warranty, ensuring that you get the most out of your investment. This warranty is a testament to the tire’s durability and Cooper’s confidence in its product.

In terms of treadwear, the Discoverer S/T Maxx excels in various conditions. Its tread pattern and compound are optimized for excellent wear resistance, ensuring that the tire maintains its grip and performance even as the miles accumulate. Whether you’re tackling rocky trails, muddy terrain, or simply commuting on paved roads, this tire delivers consistent treadwear and longevity.

Furthermore, the Discoverer S/T Maxx is engineered to withstand the harsh elements and extreme temperatures encountered in off-road adventures. Its reinforced casing and robust construction ensure that the tire remains resilient against punctures, cuts, and impacts, providing peace of mind and reliable performance even in the toughest conditions.

Overall, the Cooper Discoverer S/T Maxx is a tire that promises exceptional treadwear and durability, backed by a comprehensive warranty and designed to handle the demands of off-road driving while delivering long-lasting performance on the road.

Noise and Vibration Levels

The Cooper Discoverer S/T Maxx is designed to strike a balance between off-road capability and on-road comfort. While it’s not the quietest tire on the market, it performs reasonably well in terms of noise and vibration levels.

On the highway, the tire emits a moderate amount of road noise, which is typical for an all-terrain tire with an aggressive tread pattern. The noise levels are noticeable but not overly intrusive, especially at speeds below 70 mph. However, as you approach higher speeds, the noise can become more pronounced.

Off-road, the tire’s tread pattern and construction help to minimize vibrations and harshness. The sturdy carcass and reinforced sidewalls provide a smooth ride over uneven terrain, absorbing impacts and reducing the transmission of vibrations into the cabin. Whether you’re navigating rocky trails or tackling muddy conditions, the Cooper Discoverer S/T Maxx delivers a comfortable and controlled ride.

On paved surfaces, the tire exhibits a slight increase in vibration and harshness compared to dedicated highway tires. This is a trade-off for its off-road capabilities, but the ride remains reasonably comfortable for daily driving. The tire’s noise and vibration levels are well-managed, making it a suitable choice for those who split their time between on-road and off-road adventures.

Overall, while the Cooper Discoverer S/T Maxx may not be the quietest or smoothest tire on the market, it strikes a good balance between off-road performance and on-road comfort. Its noise and vibration levels are acceptable for an all-terrain tire, and it provides a comfortable ride across various surfaces, making it a versatile choice for adventurous drivers.

Sizing and Fitment Options

The Cooper Discoverer S/T Maxx is available in a wide range of sizes to fit various types of vehicles, from light trucks and SUVs to larger pickup trucks and off-road rigs. The tire is offered in diameters ranging from 15 to 20 inches, with multiple width and sidewall options for each diameter.

One of the standout features of the Discoverer S/T Maxx is its broad compatibility with different wheel sizes. The tire is designed to work well with both stock and aftermarket wheels, allowing for easy fitment and customization. Cooper has carefully engineered the tire’s construction to ensure optimal load distribution and handling characteristics across the various size options.

When it comes to load ratings, the Discoverer S/T Maxx delivers impressive capabilities. The tire is available in load range C, D, and E ratings, making it suitable for hauling heavy cargo or towing trailers and campers. The higher load ratings also contribute to enhanced durability and longer tread life, particularly in demanding off-road conditions.

Whether you’re looking for a set of tires for your daily driver or a dedicated off-road rig, the Cooper Discoverer S/T Maxx offers a size and fitment option to meet your needs. With its versatile sizing and compatibility, this tire can be a great choice for those seeking a balance between on-road comfort and off-road capability.

Pricing and Value

The Cooper Discoverer S/T Maxx is positioned as a premium all-terrain tire, and its pricing reflects that positioning. Compared to some of the more budget-friendly options on the market, the S/T Maxx carries a higher price tag. However, when you consider the impressive performance capabilities and durability offered by this tire, the cost becomes more justifiable.

In terms of raw numbers, the S/T Maxx typically ranges from $200 to $350 per tire, depending on the size and retailer. While this may seem steep, it’s important to remember that you’re paying for a tire designed to excel in both on-road and off-road environments. The advanced tread compound and rugged construction contribute to the higher cost but also translate to longer treadwear and better overall longevity.

When compared to some of the top competitors in the all-terrain category, such as the BFGoodrich All-Terrain T/A KO2 or the Falken Wildpeak AT3W, the Cooper Discoverer S/T Maxx often comes in at a slightly lower price point. This makes it an attractive option for those seeking a high-performance all-terrain tire without breaking the bank.

Ultimately, the value proposition of the Cooper Discoverer S/T Maxx lies in its ability to deliver exceptional performance across a wide range of driving conditions while still offering respectable treadwear and durability. For those who demand a tire that can handle everything from daily commutes to off-road adventures, the S/T Maxx’s combination of capability and reasonable pricing makes it a compelling choice.

User Reviews and Feedback

Positive reviews for the Cooper Discoverer S/T Maxx tire frequently praise its impressive off-road capabilities and rugged tread design. Many owners report excellent traction on mud, rocks, and other challenging terrains, making it a popular choice for off-road enthusiasts and those who frequently encounter harsh conditions.

Customers also commend the tire’s durability and longevity, with some reporting impressive treadwear even after tens of thousands of miles. The tire’s sturdy construction and reinforced sidewalls are often cited as contributing factors to its resilience.

On the flip side, some negative reviews mention higher noise levels on paved roads, particularly at higher speeds. A few owners have also expressed concerns about reduced on-road handling and a somewhat rougher ride compared to dedicated highway tires.

Another common complaint revolves around the tire’s higher price point compared to some competitors, though many owners feel the performance and longevity justify the extra cost.

Overall, the Cooper Discoverer S/T Maxx receives high praise from off-road enthusiasts and those who prioritize rugged capability and durability. However, those seeking a quieter, more comfortable on-road experience may want to consider alternative options better suited for primarily highway driving.

Comparison to Competitor Tires

The Cooper Discoverer S/T Maxx is a highly capable all-terrain tire that competes with other popular options in the market, such as the BFGoodrich All-Terrain T/A KO2, the Falken Wildpeak AT3W, and the Goodyear Wrangler TrailRunner AT. While each tire has its strengths and weaknesses, the Discoverer S/T Maxx stands out in several key areas.

Compared to the BFGoodrich KO2, the Discoverer S/T Maxx offers a more aggressive tread pattern, which translates to better traction and grip on challenging off-road terrain. However, the KO2 may have a slight edge in terms of on-road comfort and noise levels. The Falken Wildpeak AT3W is another strong contender, known for its excellent off-road capabilities and impressive treadwear. However, the Discoverer S/T Maxx may have an advantage in terms of overall durability and resistance to punctures and cuts.

When it comes to the Goodyear Wrangler TrailRunner AT, the Discoverer S/T Maxx outperforms it in most off-road scenarios, thanks to its more aggressive tread design and better mud and rock crawling capabilities. However, the TrailRunner AT may offer a smoother and quieter ride on paved surfaces.

Overall, the Cooper Discoverer S/T Maxx strikes a great balance between off-road performance and on-road manners, making it a compelling choice for those seeking a versatile all-terrain tire that can handle a wide range of driving conditions. While each driver’s needs and preferences may vary, the Discoverer S/T Maxx is undoubtedly a top contender in its class.

Recommended Applications

The Cooper Discoverer S/T Maxx is a versatile all-terrain tire designed for a wide range of applications, including light trucks, SUVs, and off-road enthusiasts. Here are some recommended applications for this tire:

Vehicles:

• Full-size pickup trucks (e.g., Ford F-150, Chevrolet Silverado, Ram 1500)
• Mid-size and compact pickup trucks (e.g., Toyota Tacoma, Nissan Frontier, Ford Ranger)
• Full-size SUVs (e.g., Chevrolet Tahoe, Ford Expedition, Toyota Sequoia)
• Mid-size and compact SUVs (e.g., Jeep Grand Cherokee, Ford Explorer, Nissan Pathfinder)

Driving Conditions:

• On-road and off-road driving
• Gravel and dirt roads
• Mud and light off-road trails
• Snow and winter conditions (with appropriate tread depth)
• Towing and hauling

Scenarios Where It Excels:

• Daily commuting and highway driving
• Light off-road adventures and outdoor activities
• Hauling and towing moderate loads
• Driving in inclement weather conditions (rain, snow, mud)

Scenarios Where It May Not Be Ideal:

• Extreme off-road rock crawling or rock climbing
• Deep mud or swampy conditions
• Heavy-duty towing or hauling (consider dedicated trailer tires)
• Racing or high-performance driving (consider dedicated performance tires)

The Cooper Discoverer S/T Maxx strikes a balance between on-road comfort and off-road capability, making it a versatile choice for drivers who need a tire that can handle a variety of driving scenarios. However, for extreme off-road or heavy-duty applications, more specialized tires may be recommended.

Installation and Maintenance Tips

Proper installation is crucial for maximizing the performance and lifespan of your Cooper Discoverer S/T Maxx tires. It’s recommended to have them installed by a professional tire technician who can ensure proper balancing and alignment. Incorrect installation can lead to premature wear, vibrations, and decreased handling.

Regular rotation is also essential to promote even treadwear across all four tires. Cooper recommends rotating the Discoverer S/T Maxx tires every 6,000 to 8,000 miles, following a cross-pattern rotation sequence. This helps distribute the wear evenly and extends the overall life of the tires.

Maintaining the correct inflation pressure is another critical factor in tire care. Underinflation can cause excessive wear on the outer shoulders, while overinflation can lead to premature wear in the center of the tread. Check your owner’s manual or the tire placard on the driver’s side door jamb for the recommended inflation pressures for your vehicle and driving conditions.

When it comes to general care, it’s important to inspect your Discoverer S/T Maxx tires regularly for any signs of damage, such as cuts, bulges, or excessive treadwear. Remove any stones or debris that may become lodged in the tread grooves, as these can cause further damage over time. Avoid excessive exposure to chemicals, oils, and solvents, as they can degrade the rubber compound.

Finally, consider replacing your Discoverer S/T Maxx tires when the tread depth reaches 2/32 of an inch or less, as this can significantly reduce their ability to provide adequate traction and handling, especially in wet or off-road conditions.

Pros and Cons Summary

Pros:

• Aggressive tread pattern provides excellent off-road traction and performance in mud, sand, and rocky terrain
• Reinforced construction and cut-resistant compounds enhance durability and puncture resistance
• Stable on-road handling and decent ride comfort for an all-terrain tire
• Competitive pricing compared to premium all-terrain tire brands
• Backed by Cooper’s strong warranty coverage

Cons:

• Tread life may be shorter than some premium competitors, especially with aggressive driving
• Increased road noise compared to highway-terrain tires
• Limited sizes available, may not fit all vehicle applications
• Stiffer sidewalls can contribute to a harsher ride on paved roads
• Off-road performance may not match dedicated mud-terrain tires in extreme conditions

Final Verdict and Rating

The Cooper Discoverer S/T Maxx is an excellent all-terrain tire that delivers exceptional off-road capability while maintaining a comfortable and composed on-road driving experience. With its aggressive tread pattern and specialized compound, it excels in tackling mud, sand, and rocky terrain, providing impressive traction and stability. At the same time, its on-road performance is commendable, offering responsive handling, decent ride comfort, and acceptable noise levels.

One of the standout features of the Discoverer S/T Maxx is its durability and treadwear resistance. The tire’s robust construction and reinforced casing ensure long-lasting performance, even under demanding conditions. Additionally, Cooper’s commitment to quality manufacturing and rigorous testing is evident in the tire’s overall reliability.

Overall, the Cooper Discoverer S/T Maxx earns a rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars, making it an excellent choice for those seeking a capable and well-rounded all-terrain tire. Whether you’re an off-road enthusiast, a truck or SUV owner who occasionally ventures off the beaten path, or simply someone who values versatility and dependability, the Discoverer S/T Maxx is a tire that won’t disappoint. Its combination of off-road prowess, on-road manners, and long-lasting treadlife make it a highly recommended option in its class.