[Taylor95]

I've been thinking a lot lately on how I can improve the efficiency of my wife's Outback. Right now it averages around 27 mpg. The only mods I have done to it are removing the crossbars on the roof racks and removing the mudflaps. I also have synthetic motor oil in it. I plan to switch to synthetic ATF and gear oil, because I know that the AWD system is a weakness when it comes to efficiency.

One question I have in particular is that could I see a measurable difference from a mild air dam? I'm thinking about making it drop down about 2", which would cover a lot (but not all) of the parts underneath of the vehicle. I haven't come across any examples in my search of people testing a smaller air dam. In theory, a 2" air dam could in no way increase drag, correct? I plan on installing it towards the rear of the front bumper.