If i fill out a credit application for a car in a dealership?

Only if you sign a buyers order are you committed to buy. And generally leave a deposit.

Don't do those two things until you are ready,willing & able to buy.

But, its far smarter to arrange financing on your own from a credit union or bank.

Lower rates, less games.

Go to your local bank and/or credit union and get pre qualified for an auto loan. That way you only have to do it once and will get better finance rates. You can then check all the dealers in the area and when you find the car you want you just call the bank to complete the deal. Good Luck

This is simply to see what you are qualified to purchase. If you looking at a $25,000 car, and you get approved for $15,000 then they know what they are working with and you do to. But don't go around applying for credit all over the place that will bring your credit score down.

no one is going to force you to buy a car, even if your credit app is approved, but just be aware that multiple credit apps can have a negative effect on your credit rating.