Which of the following could cause a noise from the rear of the vehicle?

A noise from the rear of the vehicle can be attributed to various mechanical issues, and incorrectly attributing the cause could lead to ineffective repairs. When it comes to rear tires being out of balance, this can certainly lead to vibrations and noises, particularly at higher speeds. Unbalanced tires can result in uneven tire wear, and this wear may create a loud thumping or humming sound that originates from the rear of the vehicle as you drive.

While rear wheel bearings, spring separators, and spring eye bushings can also lead to noises, they typically manifest in different ways or under specific conditions. Worn wheel bearings often create a grinding or whining sound, while issues with bushings and missing separators usually produce different types of noises, like clunks or rattles. Therefore, focusing on tire balance is crucial for diagnosing noise issues effectively, especially since tire balance is a common maintenance concern that directly impacts ride quality and can lead to other suspension-related issues as well.