Intrusive noise

Toyota Toyota Advice Toyota Corolla Toyota Corolla Advice Toyota Corolla 2002
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I bought a used 2002 Corolla last March, fitted with Dunlop SP Sports 200E tyres. I thought it was a fantastic car for the price. It goes well, stops well, handles well, has great seats and good driving feel and just sips petrol when gently driven. But it has a severe shortcoming -- road noise. Is it simply a matter of just accepting it, or could I get less road noise with different tyres?

The Dunlops are regarded as relatively quiet tyres and are unlikely to be the cause of your complaint unless there is a misalignment problem with the rear suspension. If there is, the tyres could be wearing unevenly which could cause a noise problem. Other than that, the most likely cause is the body structure of the Corolla and its lack of insulation which allows the noise to be transmitted through to the interior. In that case, changing tyres is unlikely to achieve the sort of improvement that would satisfy you. Check the rear wheel alignment and adjust if needed. Other than that, I reckon you're stuck with it.

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