Hi all, Haven't had a Honda for a while but just got a great deal on this 08 Accord. I bought it with this whirling noise that is directly related to speed. It doesn't shake or pull to either side. It is just as loud when turning left/right. The seller said it was uneven tread wear and would need new tires. I want to know if there is anyone that recognizes the sound as something else because that's exactly what it sounds like to me. Here's a video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=paSO...ature=youtu.be

 

I would start with the tires.When I purchased my 07 the tire noise was so bad that I thought for sure it had a bad wheel bearing.I think a lot has to do with the age and miles of the tires, no matter how good they look.I replaced mine with a set of Pirelli P-7's and the difference was day and night.

 

I had a similar problem when I just got my (used) car. Not as loud though. Did you have the windows opened when you took the video? Anyway, for me it was because I had old winter tires on. I replaced them with Continental Pure Contact tires and it was smooth and quiet ride after that.

 

Windows were up for the video. Noise is not as noticeable with the windows down. I just tried rotating my tires front to back and the noise is the same. I think I will be getting new tires to see if that solves the problem.

 

It is the government

 

Just put different tires on and balanced and the noise is still the same. This is so confusing because I am sure it's not a wheel bearing because it makes the noise at all speeds, even under 20mph. Still no shake or anything like that. Just the noise. Maybe need an alignment?

 

I really don't think an alignment will help.It really sounds like a rotational noise,possibly axle or rear wheel bearing if you've ruled out a bad tire.
It should be pretty apparent by spinning one wheel at a time by hand while off the ground.What is the mileage on this car?

 

The car has just over 100k miles. What should I look for when spinning the wheel?

 

When I listen to the video there is an obvious thump every time whatever is making the noise rotates.On the back wheels,just spinning the wheel should produce a repeatable sound with each rotation.The front will be a little more difficult and may require a helper.I can give you that procedure if needed.My first impression was a tire with a broken belt or flat spot.

 

Yes that would be greatly apreshiated. I was certain it was a tire problem, although the tire I replaced them with today were used I don't think it makes a difference from new because it makes the same exact sound as in the video.

 

It can be very hard to tell whether a noise is coming from the front or rear while driving.Check the back first and if they sound ok(no crunch or grinding noises) raise both front wheels slightly off the ground.Have an assistant start the car and put it in gear, accelerate to 20mph and listen for unusual noises at each wheel.If only one wheel turns, check it first and then block that wheel(with it stopped) and the other wheel should spin.

 

I took it to a mechanic to get it diagnosed and was informed it is the rear passenger wheel bearing. They told me it would be $500 some dollars to change it, how about no lol. Was able to find the part locally for $130 (wish it wasn't so urgent so I could just order online since its only $70 from many places) and will be swapping the new hub assembly in later today, looks like an easy enough process. Pull the wheel, pull the caliper, pull the rotor, 4 bolts on the hub assembly and its out. Anyone know where I could find torque values for everything when reassembling? I have looked around and haven't found much info on this.

 

I'm glad you found it.The reassembly torque values shouldn't be critical since you're replacing the bearing as a unit.Just tight should work.

 

One hour later and the new assembly is in, including drilling out the screws that hold the rotor on. That was far too easy! And yea, I just snugged everything down real tight since I couldn't find any torque specs. $100 for used tire, $70 to get them mounted, $40 for the inspection to tell me what the noise was, and $150 for the part. So about $350 later and the noise is gone! And I have better tires! Thanks for the help