An new old sound

135k miles on the 05 and the tires were wearing low. I got the car with 96k and what I assume were the second set. So at 135k it's about time. Thinking I was hearing the wear bars I changed the tires to Ecopia EP422. Made some difference in the ride. The handling isn't much if any better, still a little flighty now and then. But the sound of what I thought was the wear bars is still there and the slower the louder and can even feel the thumping. I don't hear any other discernible errant sounds. I have an idea what it is but I wanted to run it by the other Prius heads here to get your thoughts. Still lovin the car.

 

I don't think brakes or wheel bearing. It is heard without applying brakes. The thumping does not seem like a bearing noise. It's too regular and distinctly intermittent, like the wear bars of a tire. I was thinking maybe a CV joint even though I haven't noticed any clicking in turns.

 

Doesn't seem to change in turns but I did find it rather odd that with new Ecopias it slightly lurches off to one side a little.

 

Ok, Ed, thanks. Does Tread Wear Indicator sound better?

 

Yeah, the sound is not so noticeable at highway speeds but in town. And it gets more pronounced the slower I go.