Can driving with open windows lead to irreversible damage 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 concerns.
Imagine this: It’s a serene early morning, the clock ticking at 7:45 AM. With the highway almost empty, you cruise along at a comfortable 55 MPH, enjoying the refreshing breeze through your open windows. On such a picturesque day, using the car’s air conditioner seems unnecessary, doesn’t it? What’s the point of wasting valuable fuel?
But the question is: Is driving with the windows rolled down potentially harmful to your ears?
What are the potential hazards linked to open window driving, according to research?
You don’t think it’s really loud. British scientists conducted tests using different types of vehicles, ranging from Mazdas to Aston Martins, during times when there was minimal traffic, traveling 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 permanent hearing damage?
Exposure to 85 decibels for 8 hours can definitely result in irreversible harm to one’s hearing.
In heavy traffic conditions where exposure surpasses 100 decibels, hearing damage can occur within a mere 15 minutes.
What factors cause a rise in volume levels when windows are down?
Numerous elements can increase the noise levels even while your vehicle may already seem noisy.
Engine and automobile types
The majority of gasoline-powered engines generate noise because of the swift combustion process happening within their cylinders, which is a characteristic of about 80% of automobiles that run on gasoline. However, hybrids, electric cars, or smaller sized 4-cylinder engines might offer a quieter ride. Conversely, high-performance automobiles like Ferraris can produce over 100 decibels, particularly in lower gears.
Wind resistance
The whooshing and hissing sounds caused by wind passing over your vehicle can dramatically increase the total noise level, even in relatively quiet cars. Studies have revealed that cyclists encounter about 85 decibels of wind resistance at only 15 MPH, rising to 120 decibels at 60 MPH. Given that automobiles experience even more wind resistance, driving with windows open can certainly impact your hearing.
Increased traffic leads to louder noise
Every car that drives by in multiple lanes adds to the total noise level. Aside from the engine noise, you’re subjected to the wind resistance from passing vehicles, further increasing overall 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 during long drives, alternating between windows up and down.
- For convertible owners, closing the windows while keeping the top down can reduce sound to safer volumes.
- Use cell phone apps to monitor noise levels in regular traffic conditions (never while driving).
- Keep windows closed in heavy traffic to minimize extended exposure to loud noises surpassing 100 decibels.
- To safeguard your hearing, avoid blasting music to mask traffic sounds.
- When operating a motorcycle or bicycle, think about obtaining helmets that are specifically designed to reduce the effect of traffic noise.
- It’s important to keep a close watch on your hearing health, particularly if you frequently drive with the windows up.
Essentially, driving with the windows rolled down can subject you to a range of potentially harmful sounds, such as the rumble of the engine and rushing wind, which may pose a risk to your auditory health.
Taking measures to safeguard your ears can help you maintain your hearing while still enjoying the thrill of driving with the windows down.
If you are concerned about hearing loss caused by noise, please get in touch with us today.