What could be the cause of "road noise" ?
I know there generally is some but the more i listen to it the louder it seems. Ive had new tires on it fairly recently 17" same type as before but im sure theres more than there was before. anything mechcanical that could cause it?

 

Any number of reasons eg differing road surfaces (concrete roads are notorious for this), the choie of tyre you have, etc. Low profile tyres tend to be more noisy than higher profile ones because of the general stiffness of the carcass. Problem with this kind of noise is now that you have noticed it the noise will appear to get louder and louder.

Some lower profile tyres are noisier than others so, from my experience, for example, I have found Toyos to be far noisier than the Goodyears I now run. I am assuming that you do mean road/tyre noise and not something else that may have a mechanical fault as its source?

Suggestion would be to get the geometry, alignment and tracking checked to eliminate the mechanical bit and then either swap tyres to another brand or live with them as they are.

WB

 

Low profile tyres on big 17's are going to give noise, how much will vary. Try checking the pressure, very hard tyres increase noise. Also use the loud button on the stereo!!! lol.

Dan

 

Funny I get a lot of tyre road noise from my WRX MY05 Potenza's though it does tend to depend on the nature of the road surface. Was wondering if other makes are better/quieter though wouldn't change them until worn.

 

Wheel bearings ?

 

Close your window

 

take a spin in my sti ra V-LTD on 17"s and coilovers! you'll know what road noise is then!