Is driving with the windows down harmful 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 is a tranquil morning, with the clock showing 7:45 AM. As the highway stretches out before you, nearly free of traffic, you settle into an unhurried pace of 55 miles per hour, feeling the refreshing wind rush in through your rolled-down windows. On such a picturesque day, running the car’s air conditioner seems excessive, doesn’t it? What’s the point of wasting valuable gas?
But here’s the question: Does driving with the windows open present dangers to your hearing?
What the research says about driving with open windows
Think it’s not that loud? British researchers conducted 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.
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 present a danger of irreversible hearing damage?
Exposure to 85 decibels for 8 hours can result in irreversible harm to one’s hearing.
In congested traffic conditions where exposure exceeds 100 decibels, hearing damage can occur within a mere 15 minutes.
What factors cause a surge in noise levels when windows are open?
Numerous aspects can increase the noise levels even while your vehicle may already seem noisy.
Engine and automobile types
The majority of gasoline-powered engines generate noise because of the swift combustion process occurring inside of their cylinders, which is a characteristic of about 80% of automobiles that run on gasoline. However, hybrids, electric cars, or smaller sized 4-cylinder engines may offer a quieter ride. Conversely, high-performance vehicles like Ferraris can generate more than 100 decibels, especially in lower gears.
Resistance to Wind
The whooshing and whistling sounds caused by wind passing over your car can dramatically increase the total noise level, even in relatively quiet cars. Studies have revealed that cyclists face around 85 decibels of wind resistance at just 15 MPH, escalating to 120 decibels at 60 MPH. Driving with the windows open can have a noticeable impact on your hearing, especially since cars face increased wind resistance.
Increased traffic leads to louder sounds
Each passing car, even on multi-lane highways, adds to noise amplification. In addition to the sound of the engine, you are also exposed to the rush of air produced by other vehicles passing by, which adds to a louder overall environment.
How to minimize risks and ensure safe driving strategies
If you enjoy driving with windows down, think about these steps to reduce hearing loss threats:
- Remember to take breaks while on long road trips by switching between having the windows up and down.
- For convertible owners, shutting the windows while keeping the top down can decrease sound to safer volumes.
- Use cell phone apps to keep track of noise levels in regular traffic conditions (never while driving).
- To prevent being exposed to loud noises over 100 decibels for an extended time period, it is recommended to keep your windows closed when driving in heavy traffic.
- Refrain from drowning out traffic noise with loud music, as it can worsen hearing damage.
- If riding a motorcycle or bicycle, purchase helmets developed to mitigate traffic noise.
- It’s essential to keep a close watch on your hearing health, especially if you regularly drive with the windows up.
In conclusion, driving with windows down exposes you to various sources of noise, including engine and wind noise, potentially impacting your hearing health.
Taking measures to safeguard your ears can help you preserve 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.