Is driving with the windows open harmful to your hearing? Does it save money 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 out before you, almost 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. Isn’t it unnecessary to use the car’s air conditioner on such a lovely day? What’s the point of squandering valuable fuel?
But here’s the question: Does driving with the windows down pose risks to your hearing?
What are the potential hazards linked to open window driving, according to research?
Think it’s not that loud? British researchers 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.
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 danger of permanent hearing damage?
Exposure to 85 decibels for 8 hours can definitely cause permanent damage to one’s hearing.
Extended 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 contribute escalated noise with open windows?
While your car may seem noisy, a number of factors can exacerbate the decibel levels.
Engine and automobile types
The majority of gasoline-powered engines produce noise as a result of the swift combustion process taking place within their cylinders, which is a characteristic of around 80% of vehicles that use gasoline. However, hybrids, electric cars, or smaller sized 4-cylinder engines might provide a quieter ride. On the other hand, sports cars like Ferraris are capable of more than 100 decibels of noise, particularly when driving in lower gears.
Resistance to Wind
Air rushing past your vehicle can generate noticeable whistling and whooshing sounds, adding significantly to the total ambient sound, even in cars known for their quiet ride. At only 15 MPH, cyclists experience 85 dB of wind noise, and at 60 MPH that volume rises to 120 dB, according to recent studies. Given that cars experience even greater wind resistance, driving with windows open can certainly impact your hearing.
Increased traffic results in louder noise
Every passing vehicle, even on multi-lane freeways, contributes to noise amplification. Aside from the engine noise, you’re subjected to the wind resistance from passing vehicles, further boosting total noise levels.
Tips for decreasing risks and promoting safe driving
If you like driving with windows down, consider these measures to decrease hearing loss risks:
- Don’t forget to take breaks while on long road trips by going between having the windows up and down.
- For convertible owners, closing the windows while keeping the top down can reduce sound to safer levels.
- Use cell phone apps to keep track of noise levels in regular 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 closed 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 designed to reduce traffic noise.
- It’s essential to keep a close eye on your hearing health, especially if you frequently drive with the windows up.
In conclusion, driving with windows down exposes you to numerous sources of noise, including engine and wind noise, potentially impacting your hearing health.
By embracing preventative measures, you can safeguard your hearing while enjoying the freedom of open-road driving.
Contact us today if you are concerned about noise-related hearing loss.