There are many analytical and finite element models for predicting vibration of a tire carcass. However, experimental verification of these models is limited because of the difficulties involved in measuring vibration near the contact patch of the tire. In this research, a set of experiments were conducted using a micro-accelerometer mounted against the tire carcass, in the center of the tread pattern. The tire was mounted on Purdue University’s Tire-Pavement Test Apparatus, a machine that allows precise measurements of tire noise and vibration as the tire rolls over samples of actual pavement. Microphone and accelerometer signals were recorded simultaneously to determine the influence of pavement parameters on tire-pavement noise generation mechanisms. The vibration measurement and signal processing techniques are verified by comparing the results to previously published studies using accelerometers and laser Doppler vibrometers. The relationship between vibration characteristics and noise was investigated as a tire rolls over contraction joints in Portland cement concrete pavements. It was found that although there is a loud impulsive noise generated when the tire contacts a joint, there is much less change in the vibration levels. Therefore, increased tire-pavement noise due to contraction joints not solely the result of increased carcass vibration, and other mechanisms must also be involved.