What Causes the Rustling Sound from Tires When Driving?
2 Answers
Here are the reasons for abnormal tire noises: Nails or gravel stuck in the tire: The sound occurs once per tire rotation, resembling a "click" or "tap" hitting the ground, with the rhythm speeding up as the vehicle accelerates. If it's a stone, simply pry it out. If it's a nail and the tire pressure is still adequate, you can drive directly to a repair shop for a tire patch. Brake pads are too thin: Front brake pads on cars usually have electronic sensors, while rear ones often rely on mechanical wear indicators. When the brake disc becomes too thin, it produces a "screeching" metal friction sound. The noise is faint when not braking but becomes louder and more jarring when braking. In this case, drive slowly to replace the brake pads. You can usually check the thickness of the brake pads through the wheel rim gaps. If the estimated thickness is less than 3 millimeters, replacement is necessary. Uneven tire tread: This type of noise sounds like the tire is constantly rolling over something, producing a "rumbling" sound, often accompanied by steering wheel vibration and wobbling from side to side. In such cases, it's best to replace the tire. Wheel bearing noise: The sound is a "humming" noise that increases with speed. If you suspect a bearing issue, lift the wheel and inspect it as illustrated below. If the tire bearing is indeed the source of the noise, it's recommended to visit a repair shop as soon as possible for inspection and replacement to avoid damage to the axle or vehicle body.
Tire rustling noises can stem from several common issues. Having driven for over twenty years, I find the most frequent cause is small stones or debris lodged in the tire treads, which create friction sounds resembling sand when driving. If tires wear unevenly and develop an irregular surface, they can also produce similar rustling friction noises. Another possibility is a failing wheel bearing, which gradually wears down and generates noise. While these may seem minor, prolonged neglect can worsen the condition and compromise driving safety. Whenever I hear such sounds, I pull over in a safe spot to inspect, removing debris or checking tire condition. For prevention, regular tire rotation and maintaining proper air pressure can minimize wear-related noise. In short, don't ignore it—early intervention can prevent costly major repairs.
