Droning noise above 60mph

[Faz778]

Hi folks.

I've got a 2004 Avensis T25 1800 petrol hatch. 143000 miles. I've had it for 14 years.

I don't really do much motorway driving, however the other day I was on the motorway and hear a distinct drone coming from the front end above 60mph.

I suspected it was a wheel bearing so when I got home I jacked up each corner and checked for play top to bottom and left to right on every wheel. There was no play whatsoever and no roughness heard when I spun the wheels.

Any ideas/suggestions as to what it could be?

[Bob110023]

Hi. If it is a wheel bearing you will get a deeper louder noise when cornering. 

[Ant-Rav]

I would still suspect ur wheel bearing.

[Konrad C]

Increase the tyre pressures and see if the noise reduces. Worn tyre structure! I have had this in the past and it sounded just like a worn wheel bearing. I would also get somebody to help you locate the wheel where the noise is coming from. Like Ant-Rav, I would still suspect a wheel bearing. There is not necessary any noticeable play in a worn wheel bearing, but you may feel the roughness when spinning the wheel.

[Faz778]

Thanks folks.

I'l try increasing the tyre pressures and see how that goes. I remember a few years ago, I had a drone from the rear end and I was convinced it was a wheel bearing. It turned out to be a flat spot on the rear tyre.

I do admit that this issue does sound like a wheel bearing but there is no play whatsoever and no roughness at all when spinning the wheels. That's why I'm puzzled. Replacing a wheel bearing is no big deal for me, the problem is that there is no indication which one may be at fault.

I'll overhaul the brakes next week, just to rule out any caliper issue. In the meantime, I'm still open to suggestions.

Thank again.

[urion]

Any news about the sound??

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