Is driving with the windows down detrimental 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.

Envision this: It is a peaceful morning, with the clock reading 7:45 AM. With the highway almost deserted, you travel along at a relaxed 55 MPH, savoring the cool breeze through your open windows. On such a beautiful day, running the car’s air conditioner seems unnecessary, doesn’t it? What’s the point of squandering valuable fuel?

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

What the research indicates about driving with open windows

Think it’s not that loud? Researchers in the UK carried out experiments with numerous 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 risk of irreversible hearing damage?

Indeed, exposure to 85 decibels over an 8-hour period can result in irreversible hearing loss.

Extended exposure to very loud noises, like those surpassing 100 decibels in congested traffic, can cause hearing loss in as little as 15 minutes.

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

While your vehicle might seem loud, several factors can increase the decibel levels.

A guide to engines and vehicle styles

The majority of gas engines produce around 85 decibels of noise due to the rapid explosions in their cylinders, representing approximately 80% of gas-powered vehicles. However, hybrids, electric cars, or smaller sized 4-cylinder engines might offer a quieter ride. On the other hand, sports cars such as Ferraris are capable of more than 100 decibels of noise, particularly when operating in lower gears.

Wind resistance

Air rushing past your vehicle can produce noticeable hissing and whooshing sounds, adding significantly to the total ambient sound, even in cars recognized for their quiet ride. Studies have revealed that cyclists face about 85 decibels of wind resistance at just 15 MPH, escalating to 120 decibels at 60 MPH. Given that cars experience even greater wind resistance, driving with windows open can indeed impact your hearing.

Increased traffic leads to louder sounds

Each passing vehicle, even on multi-lane freeways, contributes to noise amplification. Along with the sound of the engine, you are also exposed to the rush of air created by other vehicles passing by, which adds to a louder overall environment.

Tips for minimizing risks and promoting safe driving

If you like driving with windows open, think about these measures to minimize hearing loss risks:

• Take breaks during long drives, varying between windows up and down.
• One way for drivers of convertibles to decrease noise exposure is to roll up the windows while keeping the roof open.
• Use 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 closed when driving in heavy traffic.
• To safeguard your hearing, refrain from blasting music to hide traffic sounds.
• When operating a motorcycle or bicycle, consider purchasing helmets that are specifically made to decrease the effect of traffic noise.
• Regularly track your hearing health, particularly if you’ve been repeatedly driving with windows down.

Essentially, driving with the windows rolled down can expose you to a range of potentially harmful sounds, including the rumble of the engine and rushing wind, which might pose a risk to your auditory health.

By embracing preventative measures, you can safeguard your hearing while enjoying the freedom of open-road driving.

Get in touch with us today if you are worried about noise-related hearing loss.