An intense, low-frequency pressure pulsation inside a vehicle cabin caused by Helmholtz resonance. It occurs when air rushes across a single open window or sunroof at highway speeds, turning the cabin into a giant whistle. The resulting acoustic beating can cause severe ear discomfort and vibrate interior trim panels.
Heard on the job
Crack the other back window a couple of inches, you're giving everyone in here helicopter ear.
Insider tip
The quickest way to stop the buffeting is to open a second window on the opposite side of the car, which breaks the resonance chamber effect.
Also heard as
- wind buffeting
- window thrum