Is driving with the windows down detrimental to your hearing? Is it more fuel-efficient? Should you opt for closed or open windows while driving? Here’s a new viewpoint on these questions.

Picture this: It’s a peaceful early morning, the clock ticking at 7:45 AM. With the highway almost empty, you travel along at a relaxed 55 MPH, savoring the cool 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 gas?

But the question is: Is driving with the windows rolled down potentially hazardous to your ears?

What the research says about driving with open windows

Think it’s not that loud? Researchers in the UK carried out experiments with various vehicles, from Mazdas to Aston Martins, during non-peak hours at speeds of 50, 60, and 70 MPH.

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 danger of permanent hearing damage?

Exposure to 85 decibels for 8 hours can definitely result in permanent harm to one’s hearing.

In congested traffic conditions where exposure surpasses 100 decibels, hearing damage can occur within a mere 15 minutes.

What factors cause a rise in noise levels when windows are down?

Numerous aspects can boost the noise levels even while your vehicle might already seem noisy.

Engine and automobile types

The majority of gas engines produce 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. On the other hand, sports cars such as Ferraris are capable of over 100 decibels of noise, particularly when operating in lower gears.

Wind resistance

The whooshing and hissing sounds caused by wind passing over your vehicle can considerably increase the total noise level, even in relatively quiet cars. At only 15 MPH, cyclists experience 85 dB of wind noise, and at 60 MPH that volume increases to 120 dB, according to recent studies. Given that automobiles experience even more wind resistance, driving with windows open can certainly impact your hearing.

Traffic amplifies noise

Every car that goes by in multiple lanes increases the overall volume level. Aside from the engine noise, you’re subjected to the wind resistance from passing vehicles, further increasing total noise levels.

Tips for minimizing risks and ensuring safe driving

If you like driving with windows down, consider these steps to decrease hearing loss threats:

• Take breaks when you are on long drives, varying between windows open and closed.
• One way for owners of convertibles to minimize noise exposure is to roll up the windows while keeping the roof open.
• Use smartphone applications to monitor the levels of noise in regular traffic conditions (avoid utilizing them when driving a vehicle).
• To prevent being exposed to loud noises over 100 decibels for an extended period of time, it is advisable to keep your windows closed when driving in heavy traffic.
• Avoid drowning out traffic noise with loud music, as it can exacerbate hearing damage.
• When operating a motorcycle or bicycle, think about obtaining helmets that are specifically designed to reduce the impact of traffic noise.
• Regularly track your hearing health, especially if you’ve been habitually driving with windows open.

Essentially, cruising with the windows open can expose you to a range of potentially damaging 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 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.