If your vehicle is showing rhythmic thumping or slapping noise while driving, here are the most likely causes and the parts you'll need to fix each one.
A damaged tire with a separated tread, bulge, or severe flat spot will create a rhythmic thump that increases with vehicle speed. This is a serious blowout risk and should be inspected immediately.
If the lug nuts are not tightened properly after a recent tire rotation or brake job, the wheel will wobble and create a rhythmic thumping sound. Driving on loose wheels can cause the wheel to detach completely.
Plastic underbody shields or fender liners that are missing retaining clips can catch the wind and slap rhythmically against the vehicle body or tire at higher speeds. This often happens if clips are left off after an oil change.
A failing universal joint or center support bearing on a rear-wheel or all-wheel drive vehicle can cause a heavy thumping noise under the floorboards. The noise is usually most prominent during acceleration.
A partially shredded or frayed drive belt can slap against engine components as it spins. Unlike wheel-related noises, this slapping rhythm will match engine RPM rather than vehicle speed.
A heavily worn CV joint, especially if the protective boot is torn, can cause a rhythmic thumping or clicking noise. This is usually most noticeable when accelerating through a sharp turn.
While typically producing a hum or roar, a catastrophically degraded wheel bearing can produce a rhythmic thumping or clunking noise as the wheel rotates.