"Richard Kuroski" <rlski@verizon.net> wrote in message
news:mEe1g.5719$_w6.5141@trndny09...
> OK all you sedan drivers try this. Find a nice safe stretch of road
> and take your Civic up to around 30-35 mph. The engine can be anywhere
> from 1500 to 2000 rpm. Now here's the "fun" part. Open the right rear
> window. What you should hear, if your experience is anything like mine, is
> a loud oscillating wind buffeting sound.
> Now if you never intend to drive with the rear windows down forget the
> whole thing. Otherwise get some ear plugs...the noise will drive you nuts
> otherwise. Oh by the way my dealer had me try this with another Civic.
> Same noise. That's why I consider this a design flaw.
> So far I can not find any TSB's or recalls that pertain to this issue.
> Maybe Honda doesn't think it's a problem. Other than this I think the car
> is great.
>
> Rich K.
>
Most sedans and some coupes will do that (station wagons and hatchbacks are
much more resistant). It is called "aeolian oscillation" and effectively
turns the passenger compartment into a giant subsonic whistle. The '64 Dodge
I learned to drive in was crazy with it, and I've never had a sedan that
didn't do it on at least one pair of windows. For best window ventilation on
the road, opening the driver's window an inch and doing the same with the
right rear window will get you quiet, controlled air flow.

Mike