V50 Wheels/Tyres : Low howling noise on left front

[tihula]

Dear fellow Volvo drivers,

I drive an 06 V50. I have had an issue with noise coming from left front. Initially I noticed it when driving straight at any speed over 20mph, worse the faster you go. Makes no difference if its in gear or not, so it doesnt seem to be gear related.

Gradually the noise got worse, and concentrated on the left, especially when turning (right). There is no vibration, or any other unwanted feeling as such, and it steers just fine.

I took it to the local garage with the above description, wondering if it was the wheel bearing. I just got it back, with new (expensive - £150) wheel bearing, and rotated tyres, as the left front was very worn.

The noise, unfortunately, did not go away. Admittedly its a lot less than before, but thats not good enough. We discussed it with the mechanic, and he said it could be the wheel itself.

Is there any way I could check the wheel (or other possibilities), before I take it to the local Volvo garage? I am loathed to take the car back to the dealer, as they are very expensive and also, I have had far too many problems with the car, so would rather not hand the garage even more of my hard earned cash.

Any ideas greatly appreciated...

[Jonnieb2009]

Hi

Try swapping the wheel with one of the rears or try the spacesaver.
Check the brake discs haven't got deep scores in i.e worn or worn pads.

[tihula]

Just thought to update the post...We have found the problem! Its a slight buckle on the wheel. This causes uneven tyrewear, due to the slight variation of the wheen circumference (?). We jacked the car up and by spinning all the wheels you can feel and see any unregularity to the surface of the wheel (tyre).

It was a pretty harsh winter leaving plenty of potholes on road surface...and I can remember hitting more than one at some speed....

Anyway, case closed. Check your wheel before you change the bearing!!