Is driving with the windows open detrimental to your hearing? Does it save on gas? Should you drive with your windows up or down? Here’s a new perspective on these questions.
Imagine this: It’s a peaceful early morning, the clock ticking at 7:45 AM. As the freeway stretches before you, almost free of traffic, you settle into an unhurried pace of 55 miles per hour, feeling the invigorating wind flow in through your rolled-down windows. On such a beautiful day, running the car’s air conditioner seems unnecessary, doesn’t it? After all, why waste precious gas?
But here’s the question: Does driving with the windows open present risks to your hearing?
What the research says about driving with open windows
You don’t think it’s very loud. British scientists carried out tests using different makes 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 present a risk of permanent hearing damage?
Certainly, exposure to 85 decibels over an 8-hour period can lead to permanent hearing loss.
Prolonged exposure to very loud noises, such as those surpassing 100 decibels in congested traffic, can result in impairment in as little as 15 minutes.
What factors cause a rise in volume levels when windows are down?
Various elements can boost the noise levels even while your vehicle might already seem noisy.
A guide to engines and vehicle styles
The majority of gas engines generate around 85 decibels of noise caused by the rapid explosions in their cylinders, accounting for roughly 80% of gas-powered automobiles. A somewhat quieter ride may be expected in hybrid vehicles or vehicles with smaller 4-cylinder engines. Alternatively, high-performance automobiles like Ferraris can produce over 100 decibels, particularly in lower gears.
Wind resistance
Air rushing past your vehicle can generate noticeable hissing and whooshing sounds, contributing significantly to the total ambient sound, even in cars known for their quiet ride. Studies have shown that cyclists encounter about 85 decibels of wind resistance at just 15 MPH, escalating to 120 decibels at 60 MPH. Given that cars experience even greater wind resistance, driving with windows down can indeed impact your hearing.
Heavier traffic leads to louder sounds
Every car that goes by in multiple lanes increases the overall volume level. Aside from the engine noise, you’re subjected to the wind resistance from passing cars, further boosting overall noise levels.
Tips for decreasing risks and promoting safe driving
Decrease the threat of hearing loss while driving with windows open by following these guidelines.
- Take breaks when you are on long drives, alternating between windows open and closed.
- One way for owners of convertibles to minimize noise exposure is to roll up the windows while leaving the roof open.
- Use smartphone applications to track the levels of noise in regular traffic situations (steer clear of using them when driving a vehicle).
- To avoid being exposed to loud noises over 100 decibels for an extended period of time, it is recommended to keep your windows up when driving in heavy traffic.
- To protect your hearing, refrain from blasting music to mask traffic sounds.
- When operating a motorcycle or bicycle, think about obtaining helmets that are specifically designed to decrease the effect of traffic noise.
- Regularly track your hearing health, especially if you’ve been repeatedly driving with windows down.
In conclusion, driving with windows open exposes you to various sources of noise, including engine and wind noise, potentially impacting your hearing health.
Taking steps to protect your ears can help you preserve your hearing while still enjoying the thrill of driving with the windows open.
If you are concerned about hearing loss caused by noise, please contact us today.