Couple of things:

- The inquiry will ding your credit, but nothing rediculous. If you apply for another auto loan within <30 days, not confimred>, it will all get lumped together, as far as scoring goes.

- Have you already found your new job yet, and negotiated salary? If not, don't be araid to ask for a signing bonus, certainly a fair request right out of college (hey, you need new clothes, right?) In not, then no sweat... Just might be some easy money.

- Don't be afraid of a cosigner, but try really really hard not to jack up his credit!!!! If you think you might be late, call him and let him make the payment!!!

Otherwise, this may have more luck moved to the auto forum.