Is driving with the windows open detrimental to your hearing? Does it save money on gas? Should you drive with your windows up or down? Here’s a new viewpoint on these questions.
Imagine this: It’s a peaceful early morning, the clock ticking at 7:45 AM. As the freeway stretches out before you, nearly empty of traffic, you settle into an unhurried pace of 55 miles per hour, feeling the refreshing wind flow in through your rolled-down windows. Isn’t it excessive to use the car’s air conditioner on such a beautiful day? What’s the point of squandering valuable gas?
But the question is: Is driving with the windows rolled down potentially harmful to your ears?
What the research says about driving with open windows
You don’t think it’s very loud. British researchers conducted tests using different types of vehicles, ranging from Mazdas to Aston Martins, during times when there was less traffic, traveling at speeds of 50, 60, and 70 miles per hour.
Their findings were consistent: irrespective of the vehicle model or speed, driving with windows down exposed the driver to a near-constant noise level of 89 decibels.
Could this level of noise create a hazard of triggering long-term harm to one’s hearing?
Indeed, exposure to 85 decibels over an 8-hour period can result in permanent hearing loss.
Prolonged exposure to extremely loud noises, like those exceeding 100 decibels in congested traffic, can result in hearing loss in as little as 15 minutes.
What contributes to increased noise with open windows?
While your car might seem loud, several factors can exacerbate the decibel levels.
A guide to engines and automobile styles
Most gas engines produce around 85 decibels of noise caused by the rapid combustion in their cylinders, representing roughly 80% of gas-powered automobiles. A slightly quieter ride may be expected in hybrid vehicles or vehicles with smaller 4-cylinder engines. Alternatively, high-performance automobiles like Ferraris can generate over 100 decibels, especially in lower gears.
Wind resistance
Air rushing past your vehicle can generate noticeable whistling and whooshing noises, contributing substantially to the total ambient sound, even in cars known for their quiet ride. Studies have demonstrated that bicyclists face around 85 decibels of wind resistance at only 15 MPH, rising to 120 decibels at 60 MPH. Driving with the windows open can have a noticeable effect on your hearing, particularly since cars face increased wind resistance.
Increased traffic results in louder sounds
Every passing car, even on multi-lane freeways, contributes to noise amplification. Along with the sound of the engine, you are also exposed to the rush of air created by other cars passing by, which contributes to a louder overall environment.
How to mitigate risks and ensure safe driving practices
Decrease the threat of hearing loss while driving with windows open by following these steps.
- Don’t forget to take breaks while on long road trips by going between having the windows up and down.
- For convertible drivers, shutting the windows while keeping the top down can decrease sound to safer levels.
- Use smartphone applications to monitor the levels of noise in regular traffic conditions (avoid using them when driving a vehicle).
- To prevent being exposed to loud noises over 100 decibels for an extended time period, it is recommended to keep your windows up when driving in heavy traffic.
- To safeguard your hearing, refrain from blasting music to mask traffic sounds.
- When operating a motorcycle or bicycle, think about purchasing helmets that are specifically made to decrease the effect of traffic noise.
- It’s important to keep a close watch on your hearing health, especially if you frequently drive with the windows up.
In summary, driving with windows open exposes you to various sources of noise, including engine and wind noise, likely impacting your hearing health.
Taking steps to protect your ears can help you maintain your hearing while still taking pleasure in the thrill of driving with the windows down.
Call us today if you are concerned about noise-related hearing loss.
