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Many adults use ASMR to get over the stresses of daily life, from gridlock commutes in their cars to family and work drama. However, many people don’t think of their vehicles as a source of the relaxing practice. Moreover, some vehicles, like classic cars, have numerous exciting sounds and features to sample. Check out how a car could help you combat stress and calm down. 

What does ASMR stand for?

ASMR is an acronym for autonomous sensory meridian response. It refers to the pleasurable and relaxing psychological reaction to sounds or sights, like rhythmic tapping or whispering. Artists on social media platforms operate exclusively in the medium, and stimuli can span from footsteps on gravel roads to a car door. 

A radio in a 1961 Aston Martin is a solid example of relaxing ASMR sources in classic cars.
A classic Aston Martin’s radio is pleasing to work | National Motor Museum via Heritage Images via Getty Images

That’s where the car’s role in the relaxation process begins. For instance, a cursory YouTube search will reveal users tapping on vehicles’ interiors and exteriors.

What does ASMR mean on a car?

The autonomous sensory meridian response effect of some car components can have a similar effect to some of the more popular stimuli. For instance, playing with the fixtures on a classic car, like lighting knobs, tape decks, and doors, could be pleasing and relaxing. 

Moreover, some repair and maintenance videos with no dialogue are billed as ASMR content by their creators. In the video below, YouTube’s EricTheCarGuy performs brake maintenance, emphasizing various audio and visual stimuli, like turning wrenches and applying cleaning agents.

According to Nebraska Medicine, the practice of employing an autonomous sensory meridian response through stimuli could reduce a person’s heart rate, ease insomnia, and even help manage chronic pain. 

Should you listen to ASMR while driving?

While remaining relaxed behind the wheel is essential, you might want to reconsider your sleepy time playlist. Many users of the practice say its relaxing qualities often make people sleepy. Unsurprisingly, driving and drowsiness don’t go together. 

Instead, many of today’s drivers listen to streaming music or podcasts instead of rhythmic tapping and other relaxing noises. Moreover, there is no shortage of properly musical cars to enjoy. For instance, the 2018 Ford Mustang Shelby GT350 might not have a pleasing tape deck to make repetitive noise on, but it does have an orchestral flat-plane crank 5.2L Voodoo V8. 

What do you think of ASMR from vehicles and parts? Share your thoughts in the comments below!

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Staff Writer

Erik Sherman

Erik Sherman joined the MotorBiscuit team as an Autos Writer in 2022. An admitted petrolhead and an avid motorcyclist, Erik has owned everything from classic cars to motorcycles to modern driver’s cars. Erik also has extensive experience with military and emergency vehicles, ranging from ambulances and fire engines to MRAPs and M-ATVs. Erik is an eager car and motorcycle reviewer with experience covering everything from sports cars to pontoon boats and jet skis.

Erik holds a Bachelor’s Degree in International Relations (IRG) from the University of Texas at Austin and has studied Chinese, Energy, and European Politics at the University of Glasgow in Scotland. Erik’s background is unorthodox; he is a United States Marine Corps (USMC) combat veteran, water survival practitioner, and a former firefighter/EMT. Additionally, Erik is a regular volunteer and former instructor with the American Red Cross (ARC).