Tire Noise
WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2004 Pontiac Vibe. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.
Tire noise can be easily mistaken for rear axle noise. Because noise can transmit or dissipate through the vehicle body, noise coming from the front tires can also be mistaken for rear axle noise. Tires showing uneven wear, or that are not flatted, are usually noisy and may produce vibrations which can appear at other places on the vehicle. This is particularly true with low tire pressure. For tire inspection procedures, Refer to Suspension in General Diagnosis.