Strange sound coming from rear wheels.

  • Thread starter Thread starter red7
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red7

red7

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Hello everyone. I have a 2004 honda civic ex with about 75,000 miles. Today I noticed a slight thumping sound from the rear, which seemingly corresponds with rotational speed of tires. Right away I checked for a puncture and air pressure differences. Tires seem fine. Got under the car and looked around for something broke or loose and: seemingly fine.

I have a pretty basic knowledge of cars but I'm no mechanic. Could this be a problem with the rear drum brakes or a bearing?
 
Could be a flat spot in the tire, have you locked up the rear tires recently? It would be worth it to swing by a Discount Tire or something and have them look at it, since it should be free.
 
A wheel being out of balance wouldn't cause a noise unless the tires have started to wear unevenly as a result of the unbalance, but he says the tires appear fine.

Could be a wheel bearing, but, I'd still say make sure the tire is good.
 
maybe some of the rim weights have fallen off? and while the tire might look good, it still can have structural damage that causes the thumping.
 
Could it be the bass on your stereo, no just kidding. It could be a bad bearing, ball joint or a hugh flat spot in your tire from doing hand brake turns. If you do that at all, but yes a good way of checking would be to jack the wheel that is doing that and then check for play by shaking the wheel on both end to see if it's loose somewhere. Might even be the bolts to hold the rim that is loose. If not the best place to take it is to a proffesional.
 
Hm. does it happen after you turn a corner, or is it all the time? Bearings typically make noise during or after a turn, or over bumps.

The good news is that a bearing or brake is...typically...relatively easy to fix with common tools. Do wear a dust mask taking that old brake drum off. I don't think you'll have asbestos brake pads, but one can never be too cautious. Get a Haynes manual for your car, too. The exact procedure is outlined word-for-word.
 

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