Thumping Noise From A Tyre
A rhythmic thump that speeds up with road speed usually comes from a tyre: a bulge in the sidewall, a separated tread, a flat spot or an object stuck in the tread.
High risk
Check the tyres now. A bulge or separated tread can fail suddenly at speed.
Short answer · Why does my tyre make a thumping noise?
A tyre that is no longer perfectly round hits the road once per turn, which is heard as a thump. A sidewall bulge after hitting a pothole, a belt separation inside the tyre or a flat spot after long parking are common causes. A nail or stone in the tread makes a ticking rather than a thump.
Safe checks you can do
- Look at all four tyresCheck the sidewalls for bulges and the tread for uneven or raised areas.Do not drive on a tyre with a bulge; fit the spare or call for help.
- Check the pressuresA very low tyre can also thump and overheat.
- Note if it fades after a few milesFlat spots after long parking often disappear as the tyre warms.
Questions that narrow it down
- Did you hit a pothole or kerb recently?A sidewall bulge is likely.
- Has the car stood for weeks?Temporary flat spots are possible.
- Does the steering wheel shake too?A tyre or wheel problem is very likely.
Possible causes
Listed without ranking. Use the questions above to see which ones fit your car.
- Sidewall bulgeDamaged inner structure; replace the tyre.
- Tread or belt separationA raised area on the tread.
- Flat spotFrom long parking or a locked-wheel skid.
- Bent wheelMakes the tyre run out of round.
- Object in the treadUsually ticks rather than thumps.
Questions about Thumping Noise From A Tyre
Can a bulging tyre be repaired?
No. A sidewall bulge means internal damage and the tyre must be replaced.
Do flat spots go away?
Temporary ones from parking usually do after a few miles; skid flat spots do not.