Is driving with the windows down detrimental to your hearing? Is it more fuel-efficient? Should you go with closed or open windows while driving? Here’s a new perspective on these questions.
Picture this: It’s a peaceful early morning, the clock ticking at 7:45 AM. As the highway stretches before you, nearly free of traffic, you settle into a leisurely pace of 55 miles per hour, feeling the invigorating wind flow in through your rolled-down windows. On such a picturesque day, running the car’s air conditioner seems excessive, doesn’t it? After all, why waste precious gas?
But the question is: Is driving with the windows rolled down potentially harmful to your ears?
What are the potential risks linked to open window driving, according to research?
You don’t think it’s very loud. British researchers carried out tests using different makes of vehicles, ranging from Mazdas to Aston Martins, at times when there was less traffic, driving 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 irreversible hearing damage?
Certainly, exposure to 85 decibels over an 8-hour period can lead to irreversible hearing loss.
In congested traffic conditions where exposure surpasses 100 decibels, hearing damage can occur within a mere 15 minutes.
What factors contribute escalated noise with open windows?
Numerous elements can increase the sound levels even while your vehicle might already seem noisy.
Engine and automobile types
Most gas engines generate around 85 decibels of noise caused by the rapid explosions in their cylinders, accounting for approximately 80% of gas-powered automobiles. A somewhat quieter ride might be expected in hybrid vehicles or vehicles with smaller 4-cylinder engines. Alternatively, high-performance vehicles like Ferraris can generate more than 100 decibels, especially in lower gears.
Resistance to Wind
Air rushing past your vehicle can produce noticeable hissing and whooshing sounds, adding substantially to the overall 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, rising to 120 decibels at 60 MPH. Given that automobiles experience even greater wind resistance, driving with windows open can certainly impact your hearing.
Heavier traffic results in louder noise
Each passing vehicle, even on multi-lane highways, contributes to noise amplification. In addition to the sound of the engine, you are also exposed to the rush of air produced by other cars passing by, which adds to a louder overall environment.
How to reduce risks and ensure safe driving strategies
If you enjoy driving with windows down, consider these steps to decrease hearing loss threats:
- Take breaks during long drives, alternating between windows up and down.
- One way for owners of convertibles to decrease noise exposure is to roll up the windows while leaving the roof open.
- Use cell phone apps to monitor noise levels in regular traffic conditions (never while driving).
- To prevent being exposed to loud noises over 100 decibels for an extended period of time, it is recommended to keep your windows closed when driving in heavy traffic.
- To protect your hearing, avoid blasting music to hide traffic sounds.
- When operating a motorcycle or bicycle, think about purchasing helmets that are especially designed to reduce the effect of traffic noise.
- Regularly monitor your hearing health, especially if you’ve been repeatedly driving with windows open.
Essentially, cruising with the windows rolled down can expose you to a range of potentially damaging sounds, including the roar of the engine and rushing wind, which might pose a threat to your auditory health.
Taking steps to protect your ears can help you maintain your hearing while still taking pleasure in the thrill of driving with the windows down.
If you are concerned about hearing loss caused by noise, please get in touch with us today.
