Tyre noise: why even quiet tyres can hum - advice from Gazprombank Autoleasing’s Alexander Kornev

Why tyre noise isn’t always about tyre quality

Tyre noise is not necessarily a sign of poor-quality tyres - in most cases, the root cause lies in a car’s design and its overall condition. Alexander Kornev, Head of Importer Relations at Gazprombank Autoleasing, explained this to “Izvestia”. He noted that even tyres marketed as quiet can produce a noticeable drone if the vehicle has weak sound insulation around the wheel arches. Workshops often suggest starting with targeted treatment of the arches, while pronounced structure-borne noise calls for comprehensive soundproofing of the body.

Vehicle condition and set-up: pressure, balance and alignment

Tyre pressure makes a major difference. Over-inflated tyres become stiffer and louder - especially winter studded tyres. Under-inflation, meanwhile, leads to vibrations, accelerates wear, and raises the overall noise level.

The expert advises following the manufacturer’s specified pressures precisely, using the values shown on the sticker in the driver’s door aperture or on the fuel-filler flap.

Extra noise can also appear when wheels are out of balance or when wheel alignment (camber/toe) is incorrect. In these situations, vibrations transfer into the body, the tyres wear unevenly, and they “bite” into the road surface more aggressively.

Choosing quieter tyres: noise label, tread pattern and type

When buying new tyres, Kornev recommends paying attention to the noise marking. It is shown with a sound-wave symbol and a decibel value: one wave indicates a quieter model, while three waves signal increased noise. Even a 1 dB difference is noticeable, and an increase of 3 dB is perceived as a doubling of loudness.

The quietest options are generally friction-type winter tyres (“studless” winter tyres), whereas summer tyres are usually stiffer. Studded tyres and off-road patterns remain the loudest.

Tread design also affects noise: symmetrical patterns are typically louder than asymmetrical ones, and directional tread tends to create more resonance. A taller tyre sidewall (higher profile) can also help reduce noise.

Noise-reduction technologies won’t fix faults

Some manufacturers use noise-reduction technologies, ranging from inner liners to special rubber compounds. However, the expert emphasises that even the most advanced tyres cannot make up for technical faults in the vehicle or for incorrect operating conditions.