I have been leaving it on my hip in the holster but in my explorer and f150 they have high center consoles and can not been seen on Eather side. So how dose it work. Do I have to tell them I have a fire arm or just on am asked base.
I would let them know, since LEOs don't like surprises, In a case where they stop you and you don't say anything about having a firearm, and for what everreason they need you to step out of the vehicle, and then you tell them you have a firearm, you will get treated differently than if you upfront with them from the initial encounter. That being said, they can't tell you to get out of the car, just becuase of the fact you told them you have a firearm, then you go into the whole reasonable suspicion thing. I recommend You always have a recording device ready for any LEO encounter. Just make sure you dont make allot of movement in your vehicle, then tell them you have a firearm... on my phone i press 2 buttons, and im recording.
Bottom line, do what you feel comfortable with, people and the forums probably all do different things.
Forgot to add, If a situation comes where you need to use your firearm, how fast will your draw be when you are seated and the seat belt buckle is near the holster (depends on where on your hip you carry).. I have a blackhawk holster with the extra mag puch and that fits perfectly in my center console cup holder, it doesnt move at all, and its easy access.