What Causes Abnormal Noises from Car Tires?
2 Answers
Abnormal noises from car tires may be caused by the following reasons: 1. Foreign objects stuck on the tire surface, which can produce a "popping" sound while driving. 2. Small stones lodged in the tire grooves, which should be removed promptly. Alternatively, a punctured tire or uneven tire pressure among the four wheels can also cause abnormal noises. 3. Worn-out brake pads that are too thin may produce a metallic scraping sound. 4. Abnormal noises from the wheel bearings. 5. Excessive tire pressure, leading to loud tire noise while driving. 6. Deformed, bulging, or severely worn tire treads, which can generate a low "thudding" sound during driving.
I've been driving for decades and have seen plenty of cases of abnormal tire noises. The most common cause is small stones or nails stuck in the tread, which produce a very noticeable clicking sound, especially at low speeds. It could also be uneven tire wear causing increased noise—for example, if one side is heavily worn while the other is fine, the sound will change with speed. If you hear a humming noise, it might be a wheel bearing issue; aging bearings often cause persistent noise. My advice is to stop and check the tire tread if you hear any unusual sounds—remove any debris first. If that doesn’t help, head to a repair shop to inspect the bearings or suspension system. Always pay attention to road conditions while driving to avoid potholes and reduce such issues. Regularly checking tire pressure is also crucial, as low pressure can amplify noise.
