Is driving with the windows open harmful to your hearing? Is it more fuel-efficient? Should you go with closed or open windows while driving? Let’s take a new look at these issues.
Picture this: It’s a peaceful early morning, the clock ticking at 7:45 AM. As the freeway stretches out before you, nearly free of traffic, you settle into an unhurried pace of 55 miles per hour, feeling the refreshing wind flow in through your rolled-down windows. Isn’t it unnecessary to run the car’s air conditioner on such a lovely day? After all, why waste precious gas?
But here’s the question: Does driving with the windows open present dangers to your hearing?
What the research says about driving with open windows
You don’t think it’s really loud. British scientists 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.
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, like those surpassing 100 decibels in congested traffic, can cause impairment in as little as 15 minutes.
What factors create a surge in noise levels when windows are open?
While your vehicle may seem loud, a number of factors can increase the decibel levels.
A guide to engines and automobile styles
Most gas engines generate about 85 decibels of noise caused by the rapid explosions in their cylinders, representing roughly 80% of gas-powered automobiles. A slightly quieter ride may be expected in hybrid vehicles or vehicles with smaller 4-cylinder engines. On the other hand, sports cars such as Ferraris are capable of over 100 decibels of noise, particularly when driving in lower gears.
Wind resistance
Air rushing past your vehicle can generate noticeable whistling and whooshing sounds, contributing significantly to the overall ambient sound, even in cars known for their quiet ride. Studies have demonstrated that cyclists encounter about 85 decibels of wind resistance at just 15 MPH, escalating to 120 decibels at 60 MPH. Driving with the windows open can have a noticeable impact on your hearing, especially since cars face increased wind resistance.
Traffic amplifies noise
Every car that drives by in multiple lanes adds to the total volume level. Besides the engine noise, you’re subjected to the wind resistance from passing cars, further boosting overall noise levels.
Tips for minimizing risks and ensuring safe driving
Decrease the threat of hearing loss while driving with windows open by following these steps.
- Take breaks during long drives, alternating between windows up and down.
- For convertible drivers, closing the windows while keeping the top down can reduce sound to safer levels.
- Utilize smartphone apps to monitor noise levels in regular traffic conditions (never while driving).
- Keep windows closed in heavy traffic to minimize prolonged exposure to loud noises surpassing 100 decibels.
- In order to safeguard your hearing, avoid blasting music to hide traffic sounds.
- When operating a motorcycle or bicycle, consider purchasing helmets that are especially designed to reduce the effect of traffic noise.
- It’s important to keep a close eye on your hearing health, particularly if you regularly drive with the windows up.
In summary, driving with windows open subjects you to various sources of noise, including engine and wind noise, potentially impacting your hearing health.
Taking steps to safeguard your ears can help you preserve your hearing while still taking pleasure in the thrill of driving with the windows open.
If you are worried about hearing loss caused by noise, please get in touch with us today.