What Causes Abnormal Noises from the Rear Wheels While Driving?
2 Answers
Reasons for abnormal noises from the rear wheels while driving: Car tire issues: Debris stuck on the tire surface can cause a flapping noise while driving; small stones lodged in the tire treads need to be removed promptly, or if the tire is punctured, uneven tire pressure among the four wheels can lead to abnormal noises; deformed, bulging, or severely worn tire treads may produce a low thumping sound during driving. Brake pad or bearing issues: If the brake pads are too thin, they may produce a metallic scraping sound when worn down; lack of lubrication or excessive wear in the bearings can cause abnormal noises from the wheel bearings.
I've been driving for over 30 years and have seen many cases of rear wheel noise. The most common issue is worn wheel bearings—that annoying humming sound gets louder at highway speeds. It could also be tire problems, like uneven wear or small stones stuck in the tread, especially after driving on rural dirt roads for a while. Loose suspension components can cause a rumbling noise, particularly when going uphill or over bumpy roads. I've found that checking if the wheel hub feels hot after parking can give a preliminary diagnosis—bearing issues usually generate heat. Address any abnormal noise immediately, as a failed bearing could cause the wheel to lock up, which is extremely dangerous at high speeds. It's best to have a proper repair shop diagnose the problem rather than delaying or attempting DIY fixes that might make things worse. Regularly checking tire pressure and wear can help prevent major issues.
