What Causes Tire Noise?
3 Answers
Here are the reasons for tire noise: 1. 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 speeding up as the vehicle accelerates. If it's a stone, simply remove it. If it's a nail and the tire pressure is still adequate, you can drive directly to a repair shop for a patch. 2. Worn brake pads: Front brake pads usually have an electronic warning system, while rear brakes often have a mechanical alarm. When the brake disc wears too thin, it produces a "screeching" metal friction sound. The noise is faint when not braking but becomes louder and more piercing when braking. In this case, drive slowly to replace the brake pads. You can check the brake pad thickness through the wheel rim gap; if it's less than 3mm, replacement is necessary. 3. Uneven tire tread: This noise sounds like the tire is constantly rolling over something, accompanied by steering wheel vibration and instability. It's best to replace the tire in such cases. 4. Wheel bearing noise: This produces a "humming" sound that intensifies with speed. To check, lift the wheel and inspect as shown in the image (not included). If confirmed, visit a repair shop promptly to avoid damage to the axle or body. 5. Overinflated tire pressure: Standard tire pressure is around 2.4 bar (front and rear) when unloaded, and approximately 2.6 bar (front) and 2.7 bar (rear) when fully loaded. Specific values may vary by vehicle—refer to the owner's manual for accurate figures.
I've been hearing annoying squeaking noises from my tires while driving recently. I think it might be because the tires are severely worn out - I haven't changed them for several years; or there could be small stones or nails stuck in the treads causing flapping sounds when driving; insufficient tire pressure can also cause deformation and noise, which I've experienced before - adding some air made it much quieter. I recommend everyone regularly check tire pressure to maintain even wear. If you notice any cracks or bulges in the tires, take them to a professional repair shop immediately - safety comes first. Pay attention to sound changes while driving daily, as early prevention can avoid major problems.
Having driven for a lifetime, I've encountered numerous cases of tire noise. Common causes include uneven tire wear, especially the uneven wear caused by misaligned front wheels; both overinflation and underinflation are problematic as they increase friction noise; foreign objects stuck in the tire treads can produce rhythmic tapping sounds while driving, so it's best to clean them out promptly; if there's a continuous squeaking sound, it might indicate a damaged wheel hub bearing, which requires immediate inspection and replacement. I recommend checking tire pressure every two weeks, clearing out debris, and replacing tires when wear exceeds the tread wear indicators. Developing good habits can extend tire life and ensure a smooth and safe drive.
