What Causes Wheel Noise?
2 Answers
The causes of wheel noise are as follows: Thin brake pads: If you hear a screeching sound from the tires, it is a warning that the brake pads are too thin and need to be replaced. The rear wheel brake pads have a mechanical warning indicator that emits a screeching noise when the pads are too thin, especially when braking. The sound can be very harsh, and it is essential to visit a repair shop immediately to replace the brake pads. Continuing to drive under such conditions is highly dangerous. Bearing failure: If you hear a humming sound from the tires, be alert. This type of wheel noise is often caused by a faulty bearing. Since the bearing supports the tire, it must be inspected and repaired at a 4S shop immediately to avoid accidents. Abnormal tire pressure: While driving, it is common to hear tire noise, but there is a normal range for tire noise, around 2.4 bar. If you hear excessive tire noise while driving and the steering feels lighter or unstable, it indicates that the tire pressure is too high. In this case, some air should be released from the tires. Excessively high tire pressure is very dangerous, especially when driving on highways, as it can lead to a tire blowout.
Common causes of wheel noise include bearing wear or damage, brake pad issues such as wear or friction, tire problems like insufficient pressure or foreign objects stuck, loose or aging suspension systems, and wheel hub deformation. Based on my experience, the type of sound can provide clues: if it's a squeaking or sharp noise, it's mostly due to brake pad friction; if it's a rumbling or humming sound, it's more likely a bearing issue. I recommend starting with simple checks, such as cleaning the tire grooves or checking the pressure. If the noise persists, it's best to visit a repair shop for professional diagnosis to prevent minor issues from turning into major problems. Especially during high-speed driving, noise increases the risk of tire blowouts or loss of control, so don't take it lightly.