Denver Auto Repair

A humming or growling sound that rises with vehicle speed often comes from either a wheel bearing or a tire. The noises can sound similar from the driver’s seat because both are connected to rotating parts at each corner of the vehicle. The difference becomes clearer when you pay attention to how the sound changes during turns, across different road surfaces, and after the tires are rotated. Wheel bearing wear usually reacts to cornering load, while tire noise often follows the tread pattern and pavement texture. How Worn Wheel Bearings Create Noise A wheel bearing allows the wheel and hub assembly to rotate while supporting the vehicle’s weight. Inside the bearing, precisely machined rolling elements move along smooth metal surfaces. As those surfaces wear, pit, or lose lubrication, the bearing begins producing vibration and noise. The sound often starts as a low hum and develops into a growl, rumble, or droning noise as wear increases. It usually beco ... read more