Is driving with the windows down harmful to your hearing? Does it save on gas? Should you drive with your windows up or down? Here’s a fresh perspective on these questions.
Imagine this: It’s a peaceful early morning, the clock ticking at 7:45 AM. With the highway almost deserted, you cruise along at a relaxed 55 MPH, enjoying the cool breeze through your open windows. Isn’t it unnecessary to use the car’s air conditioner on such a beautiful day? After all, why waste valuable gas?
But here’s the question: Does driving with the windows open present risks to your hearing?
What are the potential risks linked to open window driving, according to research?
Think it’s not very loud? British researchers carried out trials 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.
Does this noise level pose a risk of irreversible hearing damage?
Certainly, exposure to 85 decibels over an 8-hour time frame can result in irreversible hearing loss.
Prolonged exposure to very loud noises, such as those surpassing 100 decibels in congested traffic, can result in hearing loss in as little as 15 minutes.
What factors cause a surge in volume levels when windows are down?
Various aspects can boost the sound levels even while your vehicle might already seem noisy.
A guide to engines and vehicle styles
The majority of gasoline-powered engines produce noise as a result of the swift combustion process occurring within their cylinders, which is a characteristic of about 80% of automobiles that run on gasoline. A slightly quieter ride may be expected in hybrid vehicles or vehicles with smaller 4-cylinder engines. On the other hand, sports cars such as Ferraris are capable of over 100 decibels of noise, especially when operating in lower gears.
Wind resistance
The whooshing and hissing sounds caused by wind passing over your vehicle can substantially add to the overall noise level, even in fairly quiet cars. Studies have demonstrated that cyclists face about 85 decibels of wind resistance at only 15 MPH, escalating 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.
Traffic magnifies noise
Every car that goes by in multiple lanes increases the total noise level. Besides the engine noise, you’re subjected to the wind resistance from passing cars, further increasing overall noise levels.
How to minimize risks and ensure safe driving practices
Reduce the threat of hearing loss while driving with windows open by following these measures.
- Take breaks during long drives, alternating between windows open and closed.
- One way for drivers of convertibles to decrease noise exposure is to put up the windows while keeping the roof open.
- Use cell phone apps to keep track of noise levels in normal traffic conditions (never while driving).
- To avoid being exposed to loud noises over 100 decibels for an extended time period, it is advisable to keep your windows up when driving in heavy traffic.
- Refrain from drowning out traffic noise with loud music, as it can exacerbate hearing damage.
- If operating a motorcycle or bicycle, purchase helmets developed to reduce traffic noise.
- It’s important to keep a close watch on your hearing health, especially if you frequently drive with the windows open.
Essentially, driving with the windows rolled down can expose you to a range of potentially harmful sounds, including the roar of the engine and rushing wind, which may pose a risk to your auditory well-being.
Taking steps to protect your ears can help you maintain your hearing while still taking pleasure in the thrill of driving with the windows open.
If you are worried about hearing loss caused by noise, please get in touch with us today.