Is driving with the windows open harmful to your hearing? Is it more fuel-efficient? Should you opt for closed or open windows while driving? Here’s a fresh viewpoint on these questions.
Imagine this: It is a peaceful morning, with the clock showing 7:45 AM. As the highway stretches out before you, nearly free of traffic, you settle into an unhurried pace of 55 miles per hour, feeling the invigorating wind flow in through your rolled-down windows. Isn’t it excessive to use the car’s air conditioner on such a lovely day? What’s the point of wasting valuable gas?
But here’s the question: Does driving with the windows down present risks to your hearing?
What are the potential risks connected to open window driving, according to research?
You don’t think it’s very loud. British researchers carried out trials using different makes of vehicles, ranging from Mazdas to Aston Martins, during times when there was less traffic, traveling 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 pose a danger of irreversible hearing damage?
Exposure to 85 decibels for 8 hours can definitely result in permanent harm to one’s hearing.
Prolonged exposure to extremely loud noises, like those exceeding 100 decibels in congested traffic, can cause hearing loss in as little as 15 minutes.
What contributes to escalated noise with open windows?
Numerous elements can boost the sound levels even while your vehicle might already seem loud.
Engine and vehicle types
The majority of gasoline-powered engines generate noise as a result of the swift combustion process occurring within their cylinders, which is a characteristic of around 80% of automobiles that run on gasoline. A somewhat quieter ride might be expected in hybrid vehicles or vehicles with smaller 4-cylinder engines. Conversely, high-performance automobiles like Ferraris can produce over 100 decibels, particularly in lower gears.
Wind resistance
The whooshing and whistling sounds caused by wind passing over your vehicle can substantially increase the total noise level, even in relatively quiet cars. Studies have demonstrated that cyclists encounter around 85 decibels of wind resistance at only 15 MPH, escalating to 120 decibels at 60 MPH. Given that automobiles experience even more wind resistance, driving with windows open can certainly impact your hearing.
Heavier traffic results in louder noise
Every car that drives by in multiple lanes increases the overall noise level. Along with the sound of the engine, you are also exposed to the rush of air created by other cars passing by, which contributes to a louder overall environment.
How to mitigate risks and ensure safe driving strategies
If you enjoy driving with windows open, think about these steps to minimize hearing loss threats:
- Don’t forget to take breaks while on long road trips by switching between having the windows up and down.
- For convertible owners, closing the windows while keeping the top down can decrease sound to safer volumes.
- Utilize smartphone apps to monitor noise levels in regular 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 up when driving in heavy traffic.
- In order to protect your hearing, refrain from blasting music to mask traffic sounds.
- When operating a motorcycle or bicycle, consider purchasing helmets that are especially made to reduce the impact of traffic noise.
- Regularly track your hearing health, especially if you’ve been habitually driving with windows down.
In conclusion, driving with windows open exposes you to numerous sources of noise, including engine and wind noise, likely impacting your hearing health.
By adopting preventative measures, you can protect your hearing while enjoying the freedom of open-road driving.
If you are concerned about hearing loss caused by noise, please get in touch with us today.