What are the causes of front wheel noise?
2 Answers
There are several reasons for front wheel noise: Severe brake pad wear: Normal brake pads are about 10mm thick. When the brake pads wear down to less than 6mm, the vehicle may experience tire noise and weak braking. In this case, the brake pads need to be replaced. Foreign objects on the brake disc: If sand, mud, or other foreign objects adhere to the brake disc, friction between them can cause noise. This situation can be resolved by simply cleaning the brake disc. Deformed front wheel hub: If the car frequently travels on bumpy roads or passes over potholes at high speed, the strong impact can deform the front wheel, leading to noise. For safety reasons, it is best to replace the wheel hub in this case.
I've been driving for over twenty years and have encountered front wheel noise issues several times. The most common cause is wheel bearing wear, where a humming sound becomes louder when turning, especially noticeable at low speeds. The suspension system shouldn't be overlooked either—issues like leaking shock absorbers or loose ball joint connections can produce clunking sounds when driving over bumps. There are also many tire-related causes: incorrect tire pressure (too high or too low) alters tread stress patterns, leading to irregular noises, or foreign objects stuck in the treads (like multiple small stones) can create a tapping sound. Brake system failures, such as worn-out brake pads or warped rotors, may cause squealing. External factors like mud buildup during rain often resolve after washing the car. None of these should be underestimated as they could lead to loss of control risks. I recommend checking tires and suspension during every car wash and seeking immediate repair for any abnormal noises—don't try to save money here. Regular maintenance can prevent major issues—safety should always come first.
