What Causes Abnormal Noises from Car Tires?
1 Answers
Tire abnormal noises can be caused by nails or debris puncturing the tire, worn brake pads, uneven tire tread, or wheel bearing issues. Nails or debris in the tire: The noise occurs once per tire rotation, sounding like a "tap" or "click" hitting the ground, with the rhythm accelerating as speed increases. For debris, simply removing it may solve the issue. If it's a nail and tire pressure remains stable, you can drive directly to a repair shop for a patch in urban areas. Worn brake pads: Front brake pads usually have electronic wear indicators, while rear ones often use mechanical alarm tabs. When brake rotors become excessively thin, they produce a metallic "screeching" sound. The noise is faint when not braking but intensifies when braking becomes harsh. Immediate slow driving to replace pads is necessary. Brake pad thickness can often be checked through wheel rim gaps - replacement is critical when thickness falls below 3mm. Uneven tire tread: This manifests as a continuous "rumbling" noise, as if driving over obstacles, typically accompanied by steering wheel vibration and wandering. Tire replacement is recommended in such cases. Wheel bearing noise: This produces a "humming" sound that increases with speed. To identify the problematic bearing, lift the wheel and inspect following diagnostic procedures. Confirmed bearing issues require prompt workshop attention to prevent axle or body damage.