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? Let’s take a fresh look at these issues.
Imagine this: It’s a peaceful early morning, the clock ticking at 7:45 AM. As the highway stretches out before you, almost free of traffic, you settle into a leisurely pace of 55 miles per hour, feeling the refreshing wind flow in through your rolled-down windows. Isn’t it excessive to use the car’s air conditioner on such a beautiful day? What’s the point of squandering valuable fuel?
But the question is: Is driving with the windows rolled down potentially dangerous to your ears?
What are the potential hazards linked to open window driving, according to research?
Think it’s not that loud? British researchers carried out trials using different types of vehicles, ranging from Mazdas to Aston Martins, during 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.
Could this volume of noise create a danger of causing long-term harm to one’s hearing?
Certainly, exposure to 85 decibels over an 8-hour period can lead to permanent hearing loss.
Prolonged exposure to extremely loud noises, such as those exceeding 100 decibels in congested traffic, can result in impairment in as little as 15 minutes.
What contributes to increased noise with open windows?
While your vehicle may seem noisy, several factors can increase the decibel levels.
Engine and automobile types
The majority of gasoline-powered engines produce noise as a result of the swift combustion process occurring within their cylinders, which is a characteristic of about 80% of vehicles that use gasoline. However, hybrids, electric cars, or smaller sized 4-cylinder engines may provide a quieter ride. On the other hand, sports cars such as Ferraris are capable of more than 100 decibels of noise, particularly when operating in lower gears.
Resistance to Wind
Air rushing past your vehicle can generate noticeable hissing and whooshing noises, adding substantially to the overall ambient sound, even in cars known for their quiet ride. Studies have shown that cyclists face around 85 decibels of wind resistance at only 15 MPH, escalating to 120 decibels at 60 MPH. Driving with the windows open can have a noticeable effect on your hearing, particularly since cars face increased wind resistance.
Traffic amplifies noise
Every car that goes by in multiple lanes increases the total noise level. Aside from the engine noise, you’re subjected to the wind resistance from passing vehicles, further increasing total noise levels.
Tips for reducing risks and promoting safe driving
Decrease the risk of hearing loss while driving with windows open by following these guidelines.
- Take breaks when you are on long drives, varying between windows up and down.
- For convertible owners, shutting the windows while keeping the top down can decrease sound to safer levels.
- Use cell phone apps to monitor noise levels in normal traffic conditions (never while driving).
- Keep windows closed in heavy traffic to avoid prolonged exposure to loud noises exceeding 100 decibels.
- To protect your hearing, refrain from blasting music to hide traffic sounds.
- When operating a motorcycle or bicycle, consider purchasing helmets that are specifically designed to decrease the impact of traffic noise.
- Regularly track your hearing health, especially if you’ve been habitually driving with windows open.
Essentially, cruising with the windows open can subject you to a range of potentially harmful sounds, such as the roar of the engine and rushing wind, which may pose a threat to your auditory well-being.
By embracing preventative precaustions, you can safeguard your hearing while enjoying the freedom of open-road driving.
Call us today if you are concerned about noise-related hearing loss.
