humming noise that gets louder as I go faster?

2003 TOYOTA COROLLA

107,500 MILES • 4 CYL • FWD • MANUAL

COLEFFBS

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I have a humming noise that gets louder as I go faster. When I have the rear seats down it seems to be amplified. I was originally thinking an engine or transmission issue, however, I am now thinking more along the line of the rear bearing/hub assy. Any other suggestions as to what it may be? Thank you.

Jun 5, 2009 at 12:33 PM

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SQM

CAR REPAIR CONTRIBUTOR
6,383 POSTS

Hello,

Any time you hear noises it is best to determine where is the noise is coming from.
If you can hear the noise from the back but it is to left or right and it changes frequency as you speed up it is a good chance the bearing are bad on that wheel.
You can also test the noise by raising the side that you hear the noise and spinning the wheel. Typically you will hear rubbing noise.
In order to replace the hub bearing you will have to remove the brake drum to access it.

Here is a helpful article:

https://www.2carpros.com/articles/bearing-hub-replacement

I have attached diagrams for your reference.

Please let me know of any questions.
Thank you.

Images (Click to enlarge)

Sep 21, 2021 at 12:57 PM