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Getting a vehicle is a non issue this far in advance. The only time it would interfere is if your monthly vehicle payment is too high. It doesn't sound like you would run out and spend a great deal of money on a high priced vehicle so you will be fine.
No. Its not the fact of fresh inquiries. It is when people go out and get a bunch of new credit before applying for a mortgage. That makes the buyer/borrower look like they are a higher credit risk. The u/w will want a letter of explanation of each inquiry, but since you are buying a needed mode of transportation that won't be seen as risky.