Is driving with the windows open detrimental to your hearing? Is it more fuel-efficient? Should you go with closed or open windows while driving? Here’s a fresh viewpoint on these questions.
Imagine this: It is a tranquil morning, with the clock reading 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 refreshing 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 valuable gas?
But here’s the question: Does driving with the windows down present dangers to your hearing?
What are the potential risks connected to open window driving, according to research?
Think it’s not very loud? British scientists carried out trials using different makes of vehicles, ranging from Mazdas to Aston Martins, at times when there was minimal traffic, driving 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 permanent hearing damage?
Exposure to 85 decibels for 8 hours can cause permanent damage to one’s hearing.
Prolonged exposure to extremely loud noises, such as those surpassing 100 decibels in congested traffic, can result in hearing loss in as little as 15 minutes.
What factors create a rise in volume levels when windows are open?
Various elements can increase the noise levels even while your vehicle may already seem noisy.
Engine and vehicle types
The majority of gas engines generate about 85 decibels of noise due to the rapid explosions in their cylinders, accounting for approximately 80% of gas-powered vehicles. However, hybrids, electric cars, or smaller 4-cylinder engines may offer a quieter ride. Conversely, high-performance vehicles like Ferraris can generate over 100 decibels, particularly in lower gears.
Resistance to Wind
Air rushing past your vehicle can produce noticeable whistling and whooshing sounds, contributing substantially to the overall ambient sound, even in cars recognized for their quiet ride. At only 15 MPH, cyclists are exposed to 85 dB of wind noise, and at 60 MPH that noise rises to 120 dB, according to recent studies. Driving with the windows open can have a noticeable effect on your hearing, particularly since cars face increased wind resistance.
Traffic amplifies noise
Each passing car, even on multi-lane highways, contributes to noise amplification. Aside from the engine noise, you’re subjected to the wind resistance from passing vehicles, further boosting total noise levels.
How to minimize risks and ensure safe driving practices
Decrease the threat of hearing loss while driving with windows open by following these measures.
- Take breaks when you are on long drives, varying between windows open and closed.
- For convertible owners, shutting the windows while keeping the top down can reduce sound to safer volumes.
- Use smartphone apps to keep track of noise levels in normal traffic conditions (never while driving).
- Keep windows up in heavy traffic to minimize extended exposure to loud noises surpassing 100 decibels.
- Avoid drowning out traffic noise with loud music, as it can exacerbate hearing damage.
- If riding 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 open.
Essentially, cruising with the windows open can expose you to a range of potentially damaging sounds, including the roar of the engine and rushing wind, which may pose a threat to your auditory health.
By adopting preventative measures, you can safeguard your hearing while enjoying the freedom of open-road driving.
Contact us today if you are worried about noise-related hearing loss.