tire noise or indicator of other problem?

My '03 coupe is making a terrible, and I mean terrible, noise at 50mph. I've been reading through the forums and searching for tire noise (plenty of threads out there, I know). However, I'm concerned that the noise is so loud that there could be something else wrong and wanted to solicit opinions before taking it into the dealer (already scheduled). There isn't really any noise until about 40mph at which point it increases to a volume at 50mph which makes conversation in the cabin difficult. It literally sounds like my windows are down and there is a semi tractor next to me - you know that howl when the dual tires are just off a rear quadrant? I thought maybe a bearing but the noise doesnt change in relation to shifting weight (tested by changing lanes). The tires are all but new Michelin Sports (18"). I expect & don't mind tire noise from performance tires but none of my other sports cars have made such a racket and as this car is very new to me (day #2) - I'm kinda scared that something might be wrong. thanks, k

Tire noise varies as to the kind of pavement you are traveling upon, and it is not unexpected for the tires to sing at times.

MJones, I experience the exact same concerns Kristap speaks of. I posted my concerns quite a few months back. Recently I had Hendrick Porsche in Charlotte contact the DSM and I am out of luck. My noise began about 3K miles or so and I currently have 9000K miles on the car and my tires look almost brand new with the exception of my rear tires inside row which is lower and slightly ramped or feathered if that is the correct wording. This is where my noise comes from and from about 40-55 mph it is almost impossible to hold a conversation in the car, I mean absolutely unbelievable noise. My cars alignment is dead on. I think the trick is to find a tire that has a certain tread that is less affected by this inside row being worn down. Any ideas anyone ?? Thanks and Happy Thanksgiving

Noisy tires do exist, but they shouldn't be so noisy that you can't listen to the radio with your windows closed. Sounds strange to me. What tires are you using. Check to make sure that if they are directional tires, that they are mounted correctly. Check for a stone or something else stuck between the treads. I have never had the kind of noise that you describe. Yes they get loud on certain types of pavement, but nothing that closing the window won't eliminate.

Experienced a loud noise as well that was speed dependent. Realized two things: 1. Lugs weren't tightened down 2. PSI on one tire was down to 14! Tightened the lugs and aired the tires up and everything went away. Not sure if this would apply to you but it is a good place to check and start ruling things out. Have a great Thanksgiving all!

LVDell - great idea. Doh, haven't checked these things and should have done that before posting. Will check 'em this evening and take it out for a test tomorrow morning.

My pressure is and has always been dead on per factory. 36F - 44R. I have the 18" PS Ribs. Lugs were checked by dealer, said to be perfect as well as wheel bearings. Tire direction is of course correct, I couldn't imagine the factory mounting the tires backwards...maybe on a Ford Seriously I just think it's a case of the design of the actual tread that does not respond well to the inside row being worn from camber setting. I think a tread design more like the AVS sport or those new Goodyears. Anybody ??

Tire direction is of course correct, I couldn't imagine the factory mounting the tires backwards...maybe on a Ford You would be amazed how many times the wheels are removed from cars and put on the opposite side. What do you get? Tire mounted in wrong direction.

It's got to be something simple like tires or wheels mounted incorrectly or improper tire pressure.