Can driving with open windows lead to permanent harm to your hearing? Does it save on gas? Should you drive with your windows up or down? Let’s take a new look at these issues.
Imagine this: It’s a serene early morning, the clock ticking at 7:45 AM. With the freeway almost deserted, you cruise along at a relaxed 55 MPH, savoring the cool breeze through your open windows. Isn’t it unnecessary to use the car’s air conditioner on such a beautiful day? 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 hazards linked to open window driving, according to research?
Think it’s not very loud? British researchers carried out tests 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.
Does this noise level pose a risk of irreversible hearing damage?
Exposure to 85 decibels for 8 hours can definitely result in irreversible harm to one’s hearing.
Extended exposure to very loud noises, such as those exceeding 100 decibels in congested traffic, can cause hearing loss in as little as 15 minutes.
What contributes to increased noise with open windows?
Various elements can boost the noise levels even while your vehicle might already seem noisy.
A guide to engines and automobile styles
Most gas engines produce about 85 decibels of noise caused by the rapid combustion in their cylinders, accounting for approximately 80% of gas-powered vehicles. A somewhat quieter ride might be expected in hybrid vehicles or vehicles with smaller 4-cylinder engines. Alternatively, high-performance vehicles like Ferraris can produce over 100 decibels, especially in lower gears.
Resistance to Wind
Air rushing past your vehicle can generate noticeable hissing and whooshing sounds, contributing significantly to the total ambient sound, even in cars known for their quiet ride. At just 15 MPH, cyclists experience 85 dB of wind noise, and at 60 MPH that noise increases to 120 dB, according to recent research. Driving with the windows down can have a noticeable effect on your hearing, especially since cars face increased wind resistance.
Traffic amplifies noise
Each passing vehicle, even on multi-lane highways, adds to noise amplification. Along with the noise of the engine, you are also exposed to the rush of air produced by other vehicles passing by, which contributes to a louder overall environment.
How to reduce risks and ensure safe driving strategies
Decrease the threat of hearing loss while driving with windows down by following these measures.
- Don’t forget to take breaks while on long road trips by going between having the windows up and down.
- For convertible drivers, 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 normal traffic conditions (never while driving).
- To avoid 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.
- To protect your hearing, avoid blasting music to mask traffic sounds.
- If operating a motorcycle or bicycle, purchase helmets developed to reduce traffic noise.
- It’s important to keep a close eye on your hearing health, especially if you frequently drive with the windows open.
In conclusion, driving with windows down subjects you to various sources of noise, including engine and wind noise, potentially impacting your hearing health.
Taking measures to protect your ears can help you maintain your hearing while still enjoying the pleasure of driving with the windows open.
If you are worried about hearing loss caused by noise, please get in touch with us today.