Why does the front wheel of a Passat make a humming noise when running?

[LailaLee]

Bearing issues can cause abnormal noises, indicating it's time to replace the tires. Below is relevant information about bearings: 1. Introduction to bearings: Bearings primarily bear weight and provide precise guidance for the rotation of the wheel hub. They withstand both axial and radial loads, making them a crucial component. 2. Functions of bearings: (1) They ensure that the shock absorber can rotate with the wheel during vehicle steering, maintaining steering flexibility. (2) The outer ring of the pressure bearing is made of rubber, maintaining a flexible connection between the vehicle body and the shock absorber, preventing vibrations from uneven road surfaces from being transmitted to the vehicle body through the shock absorber during driving.

[DeZoey]

I've been driving my Passat for ten years, and the buzzing noise is most likely due to a bad wheel bearing. Especially in older cars, the noise gets louder at high speeds because the bearing has been dry-friction worn for a long time. If the buzzing sound increases with speed, there's a 90% chance it's this issue. You can check it yourself by parking and turning the wheels left and right to listen for noise. Without tools, it's best not to mess with it. Don't ignore it—if the bearing cracks, the wheel might lock up and cause an accident. My lesson is to go to the repair shop immediately and get a new one replaced to avoid major repairs. Regularly maintain and inspect the suspension system to extend its lifespan and save on repair costs.

[ParkerLee]

The humming noise happened on my Passat, and it turned out to be caused by abnormal tire wear! If the tire tread is unevenly worn or bulged, it will produce a low-frequency humming sound while driving, which becomes more noticeable at high speeds. First, check the tire pressure—both too high and too low can damage the tires. Then, inspect whether the tread is even, especially the inner side of the front tires, which are prone to uneven wear. It's recommended to replace the tires or rotate them to alleviate the issue. Don’t delay for too long, as the risk of a blowout increases. Young car enthusiasts should develop the habit of self-inspection.

[MacJason]

The common cause of humming noise in the front wheels of a Passat is a braking system malfunction. Worn brake pads or foreign objects caught in them can cause humming during friction; uneven brake discs can also trigger abnormal noises. After parking, feel the wheels to check for excessive heat, which indicates sticking. It's best to have a professional shop lift the car to inspect the brake components and replace them promptly to prevent accidents.