Is driving with the windows open detrimental to your hearing? Is it more fuel-efficient? Should you opt for closed or open windows while driving? Here’s a fresh viewpoint on these questions.
Envision this: It is a peaceful morning, with the clock showing 7:45 AM. As the freeway stretches out before you, nearly free of traffic, you settle into a leisurely pace of 55 miles per hour, feeling the invigorating wind rush in through your rolled-down windows. Isn’t it unnecessary to use the car’s air conditioner on such a lovely day? After all, why waste valuable gas?
But the question is: Is driving with the windows rolled down potentially harmful to your ears?
What are the potential hazards linked to open window driving, according to research?
Think it’s not very loud? British scientists carried out tests using different types of vehicles, ranging from Mazdas to Aston Martins, during times when there was minimal traffic, traveling at speeds of 50, 60, and 70 miles per hour.
The researchers’ results were uniform: regardless of the type of vehicle or its speed, driving with the windows open subjected the driver to a nearly continuous sound level of at least 89 decibels.
Does this noise level pose a danger of permanent hearing damage?
Indeed, exposure to 85 decibels over an 8-hour time frame can result in permanent hearing loss.
In congested traffic conditions where exposure surpasses 100 decibels, hearing damage can occur within a mere 15 minutes.
What contributes to escalated noise with open windows?
Numerous elements can increase the sound levels even while your vehicle might already seem noisy.
A guide to engines and automobile styles
The majority of gasoline-powered engines generate noise as a result of the swift combustion process taking place inside of their cylinders, which is a characteristic of about 80% of automobiles that use gasoline. A slightly quieter ride may be expected in hybrid vehicles or vehicles with smaller 4-cylinder engines. Alternatively, high-performance vehicles like Ferraris can produce over 100 decibels, especially in lower gears.
Resistance to Wind
Air rushing past your vehicle can generate noticeable hissing and whooshing sounds, contributing substantially to the overall ambient sound, even in cars recognized for their quiet ride. Studies have revealed that bicyclists face around 85 decibels of wind resistance at just 15 MPH, escalating to 120 decibels at 60 MPH. Given that automobiles experience even greater wind resistance, driving with windows down can indeed impact your hearing.
Traffic magnifies noise
Every car that drives by in multiple lanes adds to the total volume level. Besides the engine noise, you’re subjected to the wind resistance from passing cars, further boosting overall noise levels.
How to minimize risks and ensure safe driving practices
Reduce the risk of hearing loss while driving with windows open by following these guidelines.
- Remember to take breaks while on long road trips by switching between having the windows up and down.
- One way for owners of convertibles to reduce noise exposure is to put up the windows while leaving the roof open.
- Utilize smartphone apps to keep track of noise levels in regular traffic conditions (never while driving).
- Keep windows up in heavy traffic to minimize extended exposure to loud noises surpassing 100 decibels.
- Avoid drowning out traffic noise with loud music, as it can exacerbate hearing damage.
- If operating a motorcycle or bicycle, purchase helmets developed to mitigate traffic noise.
- It’s important to keep a close eye on your hearing health, especially if you regularly drive with the windows up.
Essentially, cruising with the windows rolled down can expose you to a variety of potentially damaging sounds, including the rumble of the engine and rushing wind, which might pose a risk to your auditory well-being.
Taking measures to protect your ears can help you maintain your hearing while still enjoying the pleasure of driving with the windows down.
If you are concerned about hearing loss caused by noise, please get in touch with us today.