perrys4

Would low tire pressures cause tires to be noisier than properly inflated ones? I am going to drive it soon but thought I would ask since I can't go for a while.

ekeeton

Yes it can. I don't have an explanation but I have experienced it.

Jim M.

Sorry, but I disagree, that is unless the tire pressure is much lower or very much higher than stock. Tire noise is usually based on two things: 1. tire tread design or 2. wear; a worn out tire will be much louder than the same tire when new.
If you want to reduce tire noise then insulate the "B" piller and the front of the rear wheel wells. When sitting in our cars the rear tire is only about 3 feet from your ear. A lot of noise is transmitted through the "B" piller into the cabin. If you insulate the wheel well, be sure to use something that will not absorb moisture, like closed cell foam or the polyurathane foam in a can. Also a lot of road noise comes thru the door. It's a good idea to put a layer of dynamat over the entire inside of the doors.

Jim Mayzurk
93 GTS 5-spd

Marine Blue

I noticed reduced tire noise after proper alignment.

a4sfed928

A large percentage of tire noise complaints are from "cupped or feathered" treads caused by incorrect toe settings.

Marine Blue

My case the toe and camber were way off which may explain the noise.

Tom928

Tire noise is based on more than the tire. It is also dependant upon road surface design. The interaction between tire surface (tread) and road surface (pavement type) is a 50/50 interaction; therefore, changing tires only effects part of the equation.

Tire pressure is usually not a contributing factor unless the tire is "very" low; however, under those conditions you should not be driving on it.

perrys4

I did not notice a significant difference in road noise but I do think it was reduced after getting the proper inflation. I need to drive it a couple more times on routes I take daily to decide.

perrys4

Rob came by my work and took my car out for a spin. He even agreed the tires were really noisy so I am going to grab his set of tires for my car. After riding in his the difference was huge. These yokos are NOISY!!!

ekeeton

Yes, in the instances I was referring to, the tires were under inflated by somewhere around 10psi.

Marine Blue

Try the Bridgestone SO2's, sticky (in warm weather) and not too loud.