Glad you guys are happy with your Optima batteries, but IMHO they are overkill for a street vehicle. Unless you live in extremely climates, a normal lead acid battery is sufficient for street use. And, I have heard from people on other forums that they really don't last any longer than a conventional battery. I don't know, because I haven't owned an Optima. But I have had batteries last for 6 or 7 years before having to be replaced.
The last Consumer Reports I read that reviewed car batteries actually recommended a battery that Wal-Mart sells.
in your opinion, what would the best battery for a 99' tahoe, that will eventually have: roof rack lights/brush guard lights/towing hitch backup led's/400w amp w/ tube style sub? its a daily driver/weekend toy. i dont want to get stuck with a dead battery in the middle of nowhere! also, i need to buy one asap, because mine is dead right now. thanks for the help!
How much do you want to spend on a battery? Optims start around $140 last time I checked, and deep cycle versions quite a bit higher than that. If I were you I would stick with a good conventional battery, and consider upgrading your alternator if you are concerned with power consumption. You need a higher amperage alternator to power everything you plan to add. It's your alternator that will be powering everything 99% of the time, not the battery.