Will tire aging increase tire noise?
2 Answers
Tire aging can indeed increase tire noise. When a vehicle is in motion, tire noise is generated, which is determined by the interaction between the tire and the road surface. Severe wear on the tire tread can amplify the vibration noise of the tire. Factors such as road roughness, road structure, road material, tire pressure, and tire size are all significant contributors to tire noise levels. The specific factors are as follows: 1. Road structure: Friction and vibration occur when the tire tread meets the road surface. 2. Tire pressure: Abnormal tire pressure affects tire noise, which is also why new cars may have louder tire noise. 3. Tire tread pattern design: The design of the tire tread plays a dominant role in tire noise. 4. Tire size directly determines the level of tire noise: Generally, larger tire sizes result in louder tire noise.
Yes, tire noise does increase when tires age. I have an old car that's been driven for seven or eight years, and I clearly noticed the difference when I replaced the tires recently. The tread on the old tires was completely worn down, and the rubber had hardened. Driving on concrete roads, the humming noise was particularly harsh, almost like something was scraping against the chassis, which was really annoying. After switching to new tires, the noise reduced significantly, making the whole driving experience much quieter and more comfortable. I remember a mechanic friend once told me that as tires age, their cushioning performance deteriorates, making road vibrations more easily transmitted into the cabin. Additionally, the hardened rubber naturally increases the noise from friction with the road. If you frequently drive on highways, the noise from aged tires becomes even more noticeable and may even be accompanied by steering wheel vibrations. Therefore, it's essential to regularly check the tread depth and aging cracks on your tires. Generally, it's recommended to replace tires every five years or so—this not only reduces noise but also avoids the risks associated with reduced grip. I make it a habit to roughly check my tire treads every six months, which gives me much more peace of mind.
