Design/methodology/approach To solve this problem, by analyzing the wheel-rail contact relationship and establishing a vehicle dynamics model, the influence of worn typical rail profiles on the vehicle’s dynamic performance and carbody abnormal vibration is analyzed. Additionally, the effect of worn rail profiles on wheel wear is analyzed using a wear model. Findings The results showed that, compared to the standard rail profile, the three typical wear rail profiles show an increase in normal contact stress. The ride and safety indexes of the three rail profiles also increased compared with the CHN60 profile. The rail Profile 3 does not affect carbody vibration, while Profile 1 and Profile 2 can cause hunting vibrations of the carbody, with the main vibration frequencies around 7 Hz. The wheel wear depths under three typical rail profiles are 1.185 mm, 1.11 mm and 1.058 mm. Originality/value The effect of the measured typical rail profiles on the vehicle’s performance is analyzed, particularly in terms of abnormal vibrations and wheel wear. This analysis can provide guidance for the long-term maintenance of the rail system. Peer review The peer review history for this article is available at: https://publons.com/publon/10.1108/ILT-08-2023-0270/