From the New York Times:

Retail sales fell unexpectedly in July, the government reported on Thursday, chilling hopes that consumers are ready to lead the American economy out of recession.
Consumers spent 2.4 percent more on motor vehicles and automotive parts last month compared with June as the government’s popular “cash for clunkers” car-purchase program got under way, but any money that flowed into the pockets of car dealers seemed to come at the expense of other businesses.
Retail spending excluding sales of cars and car parts fell 0.6 percent.