US Auto sales took a sharp downward turn in September in the face of an ongoing credit crisis and the continued increase in fuel prices. Industry-wide sales plunged below the 1 million mark for the first time in more than 15 years. Overall industry sales were at 964,873 vehicles, the lowest level seen since February 1993. The 27% drop was sharper than expected and is a clear sign that tighter credit and falling consumer confidence is hurting consumer spending.