RSU [Abstract] RSU [Abstract] Schedule of Share-based Compensation Arrangements by Share-based Payment Award [Table] Schedule of Share-based Compensation Arrangements by Share-based Payment Award [Table] Award Type [Axis] Award Type [Axis] Award Type [Domain] Award Type [Domain] Restricted Stock Units (RSUs) [Member] Restricted Stock Units (RSUs) [Member] Long-Term Incentive Plan [Member] Long-Term Incentive Plan [Member] Long-Term Incentive Plan [Member] Salary Stock Plan [Member] Salary Stock Plan [Member] A type of stock incentive plan under which a portion of each participant's salary was accrued on each salary payment date and converted to RSUs on a quarterly basis. Stock Incentive Plans [Line Items] Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items] RSU Shares [Roll Forward] Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Non-Option Equity Instruments, Outstanding [Roll Forward] RSUs Outstanding Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Non-Option Equity Instruments, Outstanding, Number Granted Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Grants in Period Settled Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Vested in Period Forfeited or expired Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Forfeited in Period RSUs Unvested and Expected to Vest RSUs unvested and expected to vest At the balance sheet date, the number of outstanding un-vested equity-based payment instruments, excluding stock (or unit) options, that are expected to vest. RSUs Vested and Payable RSUs vested and payable The number of equity-based payment instruments, excluding stock (or unit) options, that are vested and payable at balance sheet. RSU Grant Date Fair Value (Per Share) [Abstract] Fair Value Disclosures [Abstract] Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value The weighted average grant date fair value of awards on equity-based plans excluding option plans (for example, phantom stock or unit plan, stock or unit appreciation rights plan, revenue or profit achievement stock award plan) for shares outstanding at the balance sheet date. Grants in Period, Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Grants in Period, Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value Settled, Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Vested in Period, Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value Forfeited or expired, Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Forfeitures, Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value RSUs Grant Date Fair Value, Unvested and Expected to Vest RSU weighted-average grant date fair value unvested and expected to vest Weighted average grant date fair value for unvested RSUs that are expected to vest at the end of the reporting period. RSUs Grant Date Fair Value, Vested and Payable RSUs weighted-average grant date fair value vested and payable Weighted average fair value for RSUs vested and payable at the end of the reporting period Remaining Contractual Term [Abstract] Remaining Contractual Term [Abstract] Remaining Contractual Term [Abstract] Weighted Average Remaining Contractual Term Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Outstanding, Weighted Average Remaining Contractual Terms RSUs Weighted Average Remaining Contractual Terms, Unvested and Expected to Vest Weighted Average Remaining Contractual Terms unvested and expected to vest The weighted average remaining contractual terms for equity-based awards excluding options, unvested and expected to vest at balance sheet date. RSUs Weighted Average Remaining Contractual Terms Vested and Payable Weighted Average Remaining Contractual Terms Vested and Payable The weighted average remaining contractual terms for equity-based awards excluding options vested and payable at balance sheet date. Share-based Compensation (Narratives) [Abstract] Share-based Compensation [Abstract] Number of Top Highest Compensated Employees Number of Top Highest Compensated Employee Number of top highest compensated employee whose stock-based awards will be settled in conjunction with the repayment of Troubled Asset Relief Program obligations. Incremental Settlement Percentage of Top Highest Compensated Employees Incremental Settlement Percentage of Top Highest Compensated Employees Percentage of incremental settlement for top 25 highest compensated employees whose stock-based awards are stettled in conjuction with the repayment of the Troubled Assets Relief Program obligations. Number of Next Highest Compensated Employees Number of Next Highest Compensated Employee Number of next highest compensated employees within the top 100 highest compensated employees whose stock-based awards will not be impacted by Troubled Assets Relief Program obligations repayment. RSUs Reclassified From Equity to Liability Share-based compensation awards reclassified from equity to liability during the period Share-based compensation awards reclassified from equity to liability during the period. Share-based Compensation Expense Allocated Share-based Compensation Expense Employee Service Share-based Compensation, Tax Benefit from Compensation Expense Employee Service Share-based Compensation, Tax Benefit from Compensation Expense Unrecognized Compensation Expense For Nonvested Equity Awards Employee Service Share-based Compensation, Nonvested Awards, Total Compensation Cost Not yet Recognized Weighted Average in Years for Total Unrecognized Compensation Expense Employee Service Share-based Compensation, Nonvested Awards, Total Compensation Cost Not yet Recognized, Period for Recognition Fair Value of Vested RSUs Vested Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Vested in Period, Total Fair Value Cash Used to Settle RSUs Employee Service Share-based Compensation, Cash Flow Effect, Cash Used to Settle Awards RSUs Settled with Cash Payments RSUs Settled with Cash Payments The number of equity-based payment instruments, excluding stock (or unit) options, that are settled with cash payments during the reporting period. Marketable Securities Gains and Losses & Fair Value [Abstract] Marketable Securities Gains and Losses & Fair Value [Abstract] Schedule of Marketable Securities [Table] Schedule of Marketable Securities [Table] Schedule of marketable securities which may include the cost, unrealized gain and loss, and fair value of the marketable securities by categories. Legal Entity [Axis] Legal Entity [Axis] Entity [Domain] Entity [Domain] Investment in PSA [Member] PSA [Member] PSA Investments by Category [Axis] Investments by Category [Axis] Investment Type Categorization [Domain] Investment Type Categorization [Domain] Cash and Cash Equivalents [Member] Cash and Cash Equivalents [Member] Marketable Securities - Current [Member] Marketable Securities - Current [Member] Marketable Securities - Current [Member] Marketable Securities - Noncurrent [Member] Marketable Securities - Noncurrent [Member] Marketable Securities - Noncurrent [Member] Restricted cash and marketable securities [Member] Restricted cash and marketable securities [Member] Restricted cash and marketable securities. Fair Value by Asset Class [Axis] Asset Class [Axis] Fair Value, Assets Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation, by Asset Class [Domain] Fair Value by Asset Class [Domain] US government and agencies [Member] US Treasury and Government [Member] Certificates of Deposit [Member] Certificates of Deposit [Member] Money Market Funds [Member] Money Market Funds [Member] Corporate Debt [Member] Corporate Debt Securities [Member] Security interest in GM Korea preferred shares [Member] GM Korea preferred shares [Member] Mandatorily redeemable preferred shares issued by GM Korea Sovereign debt [Member] Foreign Government Debt Securities [Member] Equity [Member] Equity Securities [Member] Other restricted marketable securities [Member] Other restricted marketable securities [Member] Other restricted marketable securities [Member] Fair Value, Hierarchy [Axis] Fair Value, Measurements, Fair Value Hierarchy [Domain] Fair Value, Measurements, Fair Value Hierarchy [Domain] Level 1 [Member] Fair Value, Inputs, Level 1 [Member] Level 2 [Member] Fair Value, Inputs, Level 2 [Member] Available For Sale and Trading Securities [Line Items] Gain (Loss) on Investments [Line Items] Cash, time deposits, and other cash equivalents Other Cash Equivalents, at Carrying Value Total Cash and Cash Equivalents Cash and Cash Equivalents, Fair Value Disclosure Total Marketable Securities - Current Marketable Securities, Current Total Marketable Securities, Noncurrent Marketable Securities, Noncurrent Total Marketable Securities Marketable Securities Restricted Cash - Other Restricted Cash - Other, Fair Value Disclosure Fair Value amounts of cash and nontradable instruments which are restricted as to withdrawal or usage and excludes marketable securities classified as restricted cash and marketable securities. Total Restricted Cash and Marketable Securities Restricted Cash and Investments Trading Securities, Fair Value Trading Securities, Fair Value Disclosure Cash Equivalents, Fair Value Disclosure Cash Equivalents, Fair Value Disclosure This element represents the portion of the balance sheet assertion valued at fair value by the entity whether such amount is presented as a separate caption or as a parenthetical disclosure. Additionally, this element may be used in connection with the fair value disclosures required in the footnote disclosures to the financial statements. The element may be used in both the balance sheet and disclosure in the same submission. Cash equivalents, excluding items classified as marketable securities, include short-term, highly liquid investments that are both readily convertible to known amounts of cash, and so near their maturity that they present minimal risk of changes in value because of changes in interest rates. Generally, only investments with original maturities of three months or less qualify under that definition. Original maturity means original maturity to the entity holding the investment. For example, both a three-month US Treasury bill and a three-year Treasury note purchased three months from maturity qualify as cash equivalents. However, a Treasury note purchased three years ago does not become a cash equivalent when its remaining maturity is three months. Available-for-sale Securities, Amortized Cost Basis Available-for-sale Securities, Amortized Cost Basis Available-for-sale Securities, Gross Unrealized Gain (Loss) Available-for-sale Securities, Gross Unrealized Gain (Loss) Available-for-sale Securities, Fair Value Disclosure Available-for-sale Securities, Fair Value Disclosure Variable Interest Entities [Abstract] Variable Interest Entities [Abstract] Schedule of Variable Interest Entities [Table] Schedule of Variable Interest Entities [Table] Variable Interest Entities [Axis] Variable Interest Entities [Axis] Variable Interest Entity, Classification [Domain] Variable Interest Entity, Classification [Domain] Variable Interest Entity [Line Items] Variable Interest Entity [Line Items] Securitizations and Cash Flows from SPEs used for Securitizations [Table Text Block] Securitizations and Cash Flows from SPEs used for Securitizations [Table Text Block] Summary of securitization activity and cash flows from special purpose entties used for securitizations Schedule of Variable Interest Entities [Table Text Block] Schedule of Variable Interest Entities [Table Text Block] Equity investment in investee [Table Text Block] Equity investment in investee [Table Text Block] The carrying amount and fair value of investment in investee common and preferred stock. Earnings Per Share [Abstract] Schedule of Earnings Per Share, Basic and Diluted [Table Text Block] Schedule of Earnings Per Share, Basic and Diluted [Table Text Block] Intangible Assets, Net (Excluding Goodwill) [Abstract] Intangible Assets, Net [Text Block] Intangible Assets Disclosure [Text Block] Income Statement [Abstract] Statement [Table] Statement [Table] Statement, Operating Activities Segment [Axis] Statement, Operating Activities Segment [Axis] Segment, Operating Activities [Domain] Segment, Operating Activities [Domain] Statement [Line Items] Statement [Line Items] Net sales and revenue Revenues [Abstract] Automotive Revenue, Net GM Financial Financial Services Revenue Total Revenues Costs and expenses Costs and Expenses [Abstract] Automotive cost of sales Cost of Goods and Services Sold GM Financial operating and other expenses Financial Services Costs And Other The aggregate costs incurred during the reporting period related to financial services rendered and other financial services expensed by an entity. Automotive selling, general and administrative expense Automotive selling, general and administrative expense The aggregate total costs related to selling a firm's product and services, as well as all other general and administrative expenses. Direct selling expenses (for example, credit, and advertising) are expenses that can be directly linked to the sale of specific products. Indirect selling expenses are expenses that cannot be directly linked to the sale of specific products, for example telephone expenses, Internet, and postal charges. General and administrative expenses include salaries of non-sales personnel, rent, utilities, communication, etc. Goodwill impairment charges Goodwill, Impairment Loss Total costs and expenses Costs and Expenses Operating income Operating Income (Loss) Automotive interest expense Interest Expense Interest income and other non-operating income, net Nonoperating Income (Expense) Loss on extinguishment of debt Gains (Losses) on Extinguishment of Debt Income before income taxes and equity income Income (Loss) from Continuing Operations before Equity Method Investments, Income Taxes, Extraordinary Items, Noncontrolling Interest Income tax expense Income Tax Expense (Benefit) Equity income, net of tax Income (Loss) from Equity Method Investments Net income Net Income (Loss), Including Portion Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest Net (income) loss attributable to noncontrolling interests Net Income (Loss) Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest Net income attributable to stockholders Net Income (Loss) Attributable to Parent Net income attributable to common stockholders Net Income (Loss) Available to Common Stockholders, Basic Basic Earnings per Share Earnings Per Share, Basic [Abstract] Basic earnings per common share Earnings Per Share, Basic Weighted-average common shares outstanding Weighted Average Number of Shares Outstanding, Basic Diluted Earnings per Share Earnings Per Share, Diluted [Abstract] Diluted earnings per common share Earnings Per Share, Diluted Weighted-average common shares outstanding Weighted Average Number of Shares Outstanding, Diluted Property, net [Abstract] Property, net [Abstract] Depreciation Amortization And Impairment Charges [Table Text Block] Depreciation Amortization And Impairment Charges [Table Text Block] Tabular disclosure on depreciation amortization and impairment charges on property, plant, and equipment and equipment on operating leases. Fair Value, Equipment on Operating Leases [Table Text Block] Fair Value Measurements, Nonrecurring [Table Text Block] Fair Value Measurement Inputs, Equipment on Operating Leases [Table Text Block] Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Nonrecurring Basis, Valuation Techniques [Table Text Block] Basis of Presentation and Recent Accounting Standards [Abstract] Basis of Presentation and Recent Accounting Standards [Abstract] Basis of Presentation and Recent Accounting Standards [Text Block] Basis of Presentation and Significant Accounting Policies [Text Block] Income Taxes [Abstract] Income Taxes [Abstract] Income Tax Examination [Table] Income Tax Examination [Table] Scenario [Axis] Scenario [Axis] Scenario, Unspecified [Domain] Scenario, Unspecified [Domain] Period Start [Member] Minimum [Member] Period End [Member] Maximum [Member] Income Tax Authority [Axis] Income Tax Authority [Axis] Income Tax Authority [Domain] Income Tax Authority [Domain] Mexico [Member] MEXICO Income Tax Examination [Line Items] Income Tax Examination [Line Items] Open tax years Open Tax Year Income Tax Matter Settlements Tax Adjustments, Settlements, and Unusual Provisions Debt Disclosure [Abstract] Debt [Text Block] Debt Disclosure [Text Block] Marketable Securities [Abstract] Marketable Securities [Text Block] Investments in Debt and Marketable Equity Securities (and Certain Trading Assets) Disclosure [Text Block] Equity in Net Assets of Nonconsolidated Affiliates [Abstract] Equity in Net Assets of Nonconsolidated Affiliates [Abstract] Schedule of Equity Method Investments [Table] Schedule of Equity Method Investments [Table] Schedule of Equity Method Investment, Equity Method Investee, Name [Axis] Equity Method Investee, Name [Axis] Equity Method Investee, Name [Domain] Equity Method Investee, Name [Domain] China JVs [Member] China JVs [Member] China joint ventures. Other nonconsolidated affiliates [Member] Other nonconsolidated affiliates [Member] Nonconsolidated affiliates other than China joint ventures. Schedule of Equity Method Investments [Line Items] Schedule of Equity Method Investments [Line Items] Total equity income, net of tax Dividends Received Proceeds from Equity Method Investment, Dividends or Distributions Undistributed earnings including dividends declared Retained Earnings, Undistributed Earnings from Equity Method Investees Inventory Disclosure [Abstract] Productive material, supplies and work in process Inventory, Work in Process and Raw Materials, Net of Reserves Finished product, including service parts Inventory, Finished Goods, Net of Reserves Total inventories Inventory, Net Equity Method Investments and Joint Ventures [Abstract] Schedule of equity income [Table Text Block] Schedule of equity income [Table Text Block] Schedule of equity in income (loss) of and disposition of interest in nonconsolidated affiliates Transactions with nonconsolidated affiliates [Table Text Block] Schedule of Related Party Transactions [Table Text Block] Inventories [Text Block] Inventory Disclosure [Text Block] Statement of Cash Flows [Abstract] Net cash provided by (used in) operating activities Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Operating Activities Cash flows from investing activities [Abstract] Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Investing Activities [Abstract] Expenditures for property Payments to Acquire Property, Plant, and Equipment Available-for-sale marketable securities, acquisitions Payments to Acquire Available-for-sale Securities Trading marketable securities, acquisitions Payments to Acquire Trading Securities Held-for-investment Available-for-sale marketable securities, liquidations Proceeds from Sale and Maturity of Available-for-sale Securities Trading marketable securities, liquidations Proceeds from Sale of Trading Securities Held-for-investment Acquisition of companies, net of cash acquired Payments to Acquire Businesses, Net of Cash Acquired Proceeds from sale of business units/investments, net of cash disposed Proceeds from Divestiture of Businesses, Net of Cash Divested Increase in restricted cash and marketable securities Increase in Restricted Cash and Marketable Securities Cash outflow associated with the increase in restricted cash and marketable securities Decrease in restricted cash and marketable securities Decrease in Restricted Cash and Marketable Securities Cash inflow associated with the decrease in restricted cash and marketable securities Purchases and funding of finance receivables Payments to Acquire Receivables Principal collections and recoveries on finance receivables Proceeds from Collection of Finance Receivables Purchases of leased vehicles, net Payments to Acquire Leases Held-for-investment Proceeds from termination of leased vehicles Proceeds from Leases Held-for-investment Other investing activities Payments for (Proceeds from) Other Investing Activities Net cash provided by (used in) investing activities Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Investing Activities Cash flows from financing activities [Abstract] Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Financing Activities [Abstract] Net increase (decrease) in short-term debt Proceeds from (Repayments of) Short-term Debt, Maturing in Three Months or Less Proceeds from issuance of debt (original maturities greater than three months) Proceeds from Other Debt Payments on debt (original maturities greater than three months) Repayments of Other Debt Dividends paid Payments of Dividends Other financing activities Proceeds from (Payments for) Other Financing Activities Net cash provided by (used in) financing activities Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Financing Activities Effect of exchange rate changes on cash and cash equivalents Effect of Exchange Rate on Cash and Cash Equivalents Net increase in cash and cash equivalents Cash and Cash Equivalents, Period Increase (Decrease) Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of period Cash and Cash Equivalents, at Carrying Value Cash and cash equivalents at end of period Supplemental cash flow information: [Abstract] Supplemental Cash Flow Information [Abstract] Non-cash property additions Capital Expenditures Incurred but Not yet Paid Statement of Financial Position [Abstract] Statement, Business Segments [Axis] Business Segments [Axis] Segment [Domain] Segment [Domain] Automotive [Member] Automotive [Member] Represents the Automotive section for segment consolidation GM Financial [Member] GM Financial [Member] Represents the GM Financial section for segment consolidation. Class of Stock [Axis] Class of Stock [Axis] Class of Stock [Domain] Class of Stock [Domain] Series A Preferred Stock [Member] Series A Preferred Stock [Member] Series B Preferred Stock [Member] Series B Preferred Stock [Member] ASSETS Assets [Abstract] Cash and cash equivalents Marketable securities Restricted cash and marketable securities Restricted Cash and Investments, Current Accounts and notes receivable, net Accounts, Notes, Loans and Financing Receivable, Net, Current GM Financial Finance Receivable, net, current Notes, Loans and Financing Receivable, Net, Current Inventories Equipment on operating leases, net Property Subject to or Available for Operating Lease, Net Deferred income taxes Deferred Tax Assets, Net of Valuation Allowance, Current Other current assets Other Assets, Current Total current assets Assets, Current Restricted cash and marketable securities Restricted Cash and Investments, Noncurrent GM Financial Finance Receivable, net, noncurrent Notes, Loans and Financing Receivable, Net, Noncurrent Equity in net assets of nonconsolidated affiliates Equity Method Investments Property, net Property, Plant and Equipment, Net Goodwill Goodwill Intangible assets, net Intangible Assets, Net (Excluding Goodwill) GM Financial equipment on operating leases, net Property subject to or available for operating leases, net noncurrent The amount of property, by major property class, net of accumulated depreciation, subject to or available for lease as of the balance sheet date, noncurrent. Deferred income taxes Deferred Tax Assets, Net of Valuation Allowance, Noncurrent Other assets Other Assets, Noncurrent Total non-current assets Assets, Noncurrent Total Assets Assets LIABILITIES AND EQUITY Liabilities and Equity [Abstract] Accounts payable (principally trade) Accounts Payable, Current Short-term debt and current portion of long-term debt Debt, Current Accrued liabilities Accrued Liabilities, Current Total current liabilities Liabilities, Current Long-term debt Long-term Debt and Capital Lease Obligations Postretirement benefits other than pensions Other Postretirement Defined Benefit Plan, Liabilities, Noncurrent Pensions Defined Benefit Pension Plan, Liabilities, Noncurrent Other liabilities and deferred income taxes Other Liabilities, Noncurrent Total non-current liabilities Liabilities, Noncurrent Total Liabilities Liabilities Commitments and contingencies Commitments and Contingencies Preferred stock, $0.01 par value Preferred Stock, Value, Issued Common stock, $0.01 par value Common Stock, Value, Issued Additional paid-in capital Additional Paid in Capital Retained earnings Retained Earnings (Accumulated Deficit) Accumulated other comprehensive loss Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax Total stockholders' equity Stockholders' Equity Attributable to Parent Noncontrolling interests Stockholders' Equity Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest Total Equity Stockholders' Equity, Including Portion Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest Total Liabilities and Equity Liabilities and Equity Schedule of Inventory, Current [Table Text Block] Schedule of Inventory, Current [Table Text Block] Derivative Financial Instruments and Risk Management [Abstract] Derivative Financial Instruments and Risk Management [Abstract] Fair Values Derivatives, Balance Sheet Location, by Derivative Contract Type [Table] Fair Values Derivatives, Balance Sheet Location, by Derivative Contract Type [Table] Business Segments [Axis] Derivatives, Fair Value [Line Items] Derivatives, Fair Value [Line Items] Schedule of Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring Basis [Table Text Block] Schedule of Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring Basis [Table Text Block] Gains (Losses) on Derivatives [Table Text Block] Schedule of Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss) in Statement of Financial Performance [Table Text Block] Delinquency [Abstract] Delinquency [Abstract] Schedule of Financing Receivables Past Due [Table] Schedule of Financing Receivables Past Due [Table] Financing Receivable, Recorded Investment, by Class of Financing Receivable [Axis] Class of Financing Receivable [Axis] Financing Receivable, Recorded Investment, Class of Financing Receivable [Domain] Class of Financing Receivable [Domain] Consumer Finance Receivable [Member] Consumer Loans Auto Financing Receivable [Member] Deliquent Contract by Repossession [Axis] Deliquent Contract by Repossession [Axis] Deliquent contracts either in repossession or not yet in repossession. Delinquent Contract by Repossession [Domain] Delinquent Contract by Repossession [Domain] Delinquent Contract by Repossession Delinquent Contract Not Yet in Repossession [Member] Delinquent Contract Not Yet in Repossession [Member] Delinquent contract not yet in repossession. Delinquent Contract in Repossession [Member] Delinquent Contract in Repossession [Member] Delinquent contract in repossession. Deliquent Contract Pass Due [Axis] Deliquent Contract Pass Due [Axis] Deliquent contract pass due by number of days. Deliquent Contract Past Due Accounts [Domain] Deliquent Contract Past Due Accounts [Domain] Deliquent contract past due accounts 31-to-60 days [Member] 31-to-60 days [Member] 31-to-60 days past due Greater-than-60 Days [Member] Greater-than-60 Days [Member] Greater-than-60 days pass due Financing Receivable, Recorded Investment, Past Due [Line Items] Financing Receivable, Recorded Investment, Past Due [Line Items] Finance Receivables, Nonaccrual Status Financing Receivable, Recorded Investment, Nonaccrual Status Finance Receivables, Past Due Financing Receivable, Recorded Investment, Past Due Percent of Contractual Amount Due Percent of Contractual Amount Due Delinquent accounts to contractual amount due, as a percentage Outstanding recorded investment Financing Receivable, Modifications, Recorded Investment Less: allowance for loan losses Allowance for Credit Losses, Change in Method of Calculating Impairment Outstanding recorded investment, net of allowance Financing Receivable, Modifications, Post-Modification Recorded Investment Unpaid principal balance Impaired Financing Receivable, Unpaid Principal Balance Product Warranty Liability [Abstract] Product Warranty Liability [Abstract] Schedule of Product Warranty Liability [Table Text Block] Schedule of Product Warranty Liability [Table Text Block] Nature of Operations [Abstract] Nature of Operations [Abstract] Nature Of Operations [Text Block] Nature of Operations [Text Block] Equity In Net Assets Of Nonconsolidated Affiliates [Text Block] Equity Method Investments and Joint Ventures Disclosure [Text Block] Nonconsolidated Affiliates [Member] Equity Method Investee [Member] Results of operations [Abstract] Automotive sales and revenue Revenue from Related Parties Automotive purchases, net Related Party Transaction, Purchases from Related Party Interest income and other non-operating income, net Financial position [Abstract] Accounts and notes receivable, net Due from Related Parties Accounts and notes payable Due to Related Parties Deferred revenue and customer deposits Other Liabilities Cash flows [Abstract] Operating Investing Product Warranties Disclosures [Abstract] Balance at beginning of period Standard Product Warranty Accrual Warranties issued and assumed in period Standard Product Warranty Accrual, Warranties Issued Payments Standard Product Warranty Accrual, Payments Adjustments to pre-existing warranties Standard Product Warranty Accrual, Preexisting, Increase (Decrease) Effect of foreign currency translation and other Standard Product Warranty Accrual, Currency Translation, Increase (Decrease) Balance at end of period Schedule of Segment Reporting Information, by Segment [Table] Net of noncontrolling interest [Member] Net of noncontrolling interest [Member] Presented net of noncontrolling interest. GMNA [Member] GMNA [Member] Represents the GM North America region for segment consolidation. GME [Member] GME [Member] Represents the GM Europe region for segment consolidation. GMIO [Member] GMIO [Member] Represents the GM International Operations region for segment consolidation. GMSA [Member] GMSA [Member] Represents the GM South America region for segment consolidation. Corporate [Member] Corporate [Member] Intersegment Elimination [Member] Corporate Elimination [Member] Segment Reporting Information [Line Items] Segment Reporting Information [Line Items] External customers Revenue from External Customers GM Financial revenue Segment Reporting Information, Intersegment Revenue Segment Reporting Information, Intersegment Revenue Total net sales and revenue Segment Reporting Information, Revenue for Reportable Segment Income (loss) before automotive interest and income taxes-adjusted Income (Loss) Before Automotive Interest And Income Taxes Adjusted The net results for the period of deducting expenses from revenues while excluding automotive interest, income taxes and adjustments for the reporting period. Adjustments Adjustments Includes items that are not part of the normal operating cycle of ongoing operations. Corporate interest income Investment Income, Interest Automotive interest expense Income (loss) before income taxes Income (Loss) From Continuing Operations Before Income Taxes Represents the income or loss from continuing operations attributable to the economic entity which may also be defined as revenue less expenses from ongoing operations, after income or loss from equity method investments, but before income taxes. Total Assets Net adjustments for pension settlement charges and various insurance recoveries Net Adjustments Net Adjustments; include items that are not part of the normal operating cycle of ongoing operations. Charge for Foreign Currency Devaluation Charge for Foreign Currency Devaluation Represents the charge for foreign currency devaluation. Preferred Stock, Redemption Amount Preferred Stock, Redemption Amount Curtailments, settlements and other losses Curtailments, settlements and other losses The aggregrate amount of net (gains) losses recognized in net period benefit cost due to settlements, curtailments and other adjustments. Number of Reportable Segments Number of Reportable Segments Finance Receivables, net [Abstract] Finance Receivables, net [Abstract] Accretable Yield [Table] Accretable Yield [Table] Accretable Yield [Table] Accretable Yield [Line Items] Accretable Yield [Line Items] Accretable Yield [Line Items] Balance at beginning of period Certain Loans Acquired in Transfer Not Accounted for as Debt Securities, Accretable Yield Ally Financial international operations acquisition Certain Loans Acquired in Transfer Not Accounted for as Debt Securities, Accretable Yield, Additions Accretion of accretable yield Certain Loans Acquired in Transfer Not Accounted for as Debt Securities, Accretable Yield, Accretion Transfer from non-accretable difference Certain Loans Acquired in Transfer Not Accounted for as Debt Securities, Accretable Yield, Reclassifications from Nonaccretable Difference Effect of foreign currency Certain Loans Acquired in Transfer Not Accounted for as Debt Securities, Accretable Yield, Translation Ajustment Amount of foreign currency translation adjustment increasing or decreasing the accretable yield balance for loans acquired in transfer not accounted for as debt securities, with evidence of deterioration of credit quality since the originanations that were acquired during the business acquisition. Balance at end of period Trading Securities (and Certain Trading Assets) [Table Text Block] Trading Securities (and Certain Trading Assets) [Table Text Block] Available-for-sale Securities [Table Text Block] Available-for-sale Securities [Table Text Block] Investments Classified by Contractual Maturity Date [Table Text Block] Investments Classified by Contractual Maturity Date [Table Text Block] Preferred and Common Stock [Abstract] Preferred and Common Stock [Abstract] Schedule of Stock by Class [Table] Schedule of Stock by Class [Table] Class of Stock [Line Items] Class of Stock [Line Items] Preferred Stock, Shares Authorized Preferred Stock, Shares Authorized Common Stock, Shares Authorized Common Stock, Shares Authorized Preferred Stock, Shares Issued Preferred Stock, Shares Issued Preferred Stock, Shares Outstanding Preferred Stock, Shares Outstanding Common Stock, Shares, Issued Common Stock, Shares, Issued Common Stock, Shares, Outstanding Common Stock, Shares, Outstanding Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income [Abstract] Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income [Abstract] Foreign Currency Translation Adjustment [Abstract] Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Foreign Currency Transaction and Translation Adjustment, Net of Tax [Abstract] Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), before Tax Effect Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Foreign Currency Translation Adjustment, before Tax Effect Accumulated pretax adjustment that results from the process of translating subsidiary financial statements and foreign equity investments into functional currency of the reporting entity, net of reclassification of realized foreign currency translation gains or losses. Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Tax Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Foreign Currency Translation Adjustment, Tax Accumulated adjustment, amount of tax effect, that results from the process of translating subsidiary financial statements and foreign equity investments into the reporting currency from the functional currency of the reporting entity, net of reclassification of realized foreign currency translation gains or losses. Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Foreign Currency Translation Adjustment, Net of Tax Other Comprehensive Loss, before Tax Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Foreign Currency Transaction and Translation Adjustment, before Tax Other Comprehensive Income Loss, Tax Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Foreign Currency Translation Gain (Loss) Arising During Period, Tax Other Comprehensive Income Loss, Net of Tax Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Foreign Currency Transaction and Translation Adjustment, Net of Tax Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), before Tax, Portion Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Foreign Currency Transaction and Translation Adjustment, before Tax, Portion Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Tax, Portion Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Foreign Currency Translation Adjustment, Tax, Portion Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax, Portion Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Foreign Currency Transaction and Translation Adjustment, Net of Tax, Portion Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest Unrealized Gain (Loss) on Securities, Net [Abstract] Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Available-for-sale Securities Adjustment, Net of Tax [Abstract] Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), before Tax Effect Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Available-for-sale Securities Adjustment, before Tax Effect Accumulated gross appreciation or the gross loss in value of the total of unsold securities. Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Tax Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Available-for-sale Securities Adjustment, Tax Accumulated appreciation or loss, effect of tax, in value of the total of available-for-sale securities at the end of an accounting period. Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Available-for-sale Securities Adjustment, Net of Tax Other Comprehensive Income Loss, before Tax Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Available-for-sale Securities Adjustment, before Tax Other Comprehensive Income Loss, Tax Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Available-for-sale Securities, Tax Other Comprehensive Income Loss, Net of Tax Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Available-for-sale Securities Adjustment, Net of Tax Defined Benefit Plans, Net [Abstract] Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Pension and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans, Adjustment, Net of Tax [Abstract] Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), before Tax Pension and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans, Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), before Tax Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Tax Pension and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans, Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Tax The tax effect of net gain (loss), prior service cost (credit), and transition assets (obligations), as well as minimum pension liability if still remaining, included in accumulated other comprehensive income associated with a defined benefit pension or other postretirement plan(s) because they have yet to be recognized as components of net periodic benefit cost. Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Pension and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans, Net of Tax Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), before Reclassification Adjustments and Tax Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Pension and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans, Adjustment, before Reclassification Adjustments and Tax Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), before Reclassification Adjustments, Tax Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Pension and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans, before Reclassification Adjustments, Tax Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), before Reclassification Adjustments, Net of Tax Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Pension and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans, Adjustment, before Reclassification Adjustments, Net of Tax Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Reclassification, Prior Service Cost (Credit), before Tax Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Amortization, Pension and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans, Net Prior Service Cost Recognized in Net Periodic Benefit Cost, before Tax Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Reclassification, Prior Service Cost (Credit), Tax Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Amortization, Pension and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans, Net Prior Service Cost Recognized in Net Periodic Pension Cost, Tax Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Reclassification, Prior Service Cost (Credit), Net of Tax Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Amortization, Pension and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans, Net Prior Service Cost Recognized in Net Periodic Pension Cost, Net of Tax Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Reclassification, Actuarial Loss, before Tax Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Reclassification, Pension and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans, Net Gain (Loss) Recognized in Net Periodic Benefit Cost, before Tax Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Reclassification, Actuarial Loss, Tax Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Reclassification, Pension and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans, Net Gain (Loss) Recognized in Net Periodic Benefit Cost, Tax Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Reclassification, Actuarial Loss, Net of Tax Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Reclassification, Pension and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans, Net Gain (Loss) Recognized in Net Periodic Benefit Cost, Net of Tax Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), before Tax Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Pension and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans, Adjustment, before Tax Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Tax Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Pension and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans, Tax Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Pension and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans, Adjustment, Net of Tax Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) [Abstract] Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax [Abstract] Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), before Tax Effect Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), before Tax Effect Accumulated change in equity from transactions and other events and circumstances from non-owner sources, before tax effect. Excludes Net Income or Loss, and accumulated changes in equity from transactions resulting from investments by owners and distributions to owners. Includes foreign currency items, minimum pension liability adjustments, and unrealized gains and losses on certain investments in debt and equity securities as well as changes in the fair value of derivatives related to the effective portion of a designated cash flow hedge. Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Tax Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Tax Accumulated change in equity from transactions and other events and circumstances from non-owner sources, effect of tax, at period end. Excludes Net Income (Loss), and accumulated changes in equity from transactions resulting from investments by owners and distributions to owners. Includes foreign currency translation items, certain pension adjustments, unrealized gains and losses on certain investments in debt and equity securities, other than temporary impairment (OTTI) losses related to factors other than credit losses on available-for-sale and held-to-maturity debt securities that an entity does not intend to sell and it is not more likely than not that the entity will be required to sell before recovery of the amortized cost basis, as well as changes in the fair value of derivatives related to the effective portion of a designated cash flow hedge. Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) before Reclassification Adjustment, before Tax Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) before Reclassification Adjustment, before Tax Before tax amount of other comprehensive income (loss) attributable to both parent entity and noncontrolling interest before reclassification adjustments. Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) before Reclassification Adjustment, Tax Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) before Reclassification Adjustment, Tax Tax effect of other comprehensive income (loss) attributable to both parent entity and noncontrolling interest before reclassification adjustments. Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) before Reclassification Adjustment, Net of Tax Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) before Reclassification Adjustment, Net of Tax Net of tax amount of other comprehensive income (loss) attributable to both parent entity and noncontrolling interest before reclassification adjustments. Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Reclassification Adjustment, before Tax Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Reclassification Adjustment, before Tax Before tax amount of the income statement impact of the reclassification adjustment on other comprehensive income (loss) attributable to both parent entity and noncontrolling interest. Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Reclassification Adjustment, Tax Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Reclassification Adjustment, Tax Tax effect of the income statement impact of the reclassification adjustment on other comprehensive income (loss) attributable to both parent entity and noncontrolling interest. Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Reclassification Adjustment, Net of Tax Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Reclassification Adjustment, Net of Tax Other comprehensive income (loss), net of tax, adjustments total. Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), before Tax Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), before Tax Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Tax Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Tax Other comprehensive income (loss), net of tax Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), before Tax, Portion Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), before Tax, Portion Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Tax, Portion Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Tax, Portion Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax, Portion Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax, Portion Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest Pensions and Other Postretirement Benefits [Abstract] Pensions and Other Postretirement Benefits [Abstract] Components of Net Periodic Pension and OPEB Expense [Table Text Block] Schedule of Net Benefit Costs [Table Text Block] Statement of Stockholders' Equity [Abstract] Statement, Equity Components [Axis] Equity Components [Axis] Equity Component [Domain] Equity Component [Domain] Common Stock [Member] Common Stock [Member] Additional Paid-in Capital [Member] Additional Paid-in Capital [Member] Retained Earnings [Member] Retained Earnings [Member] Accumulated Other Comprehensive Loss [Member] Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) [Member] Noncontrolling Interests [Member] Noncontrolling Interest [Member] Balance Net income attributable to stockholders Net income attributable to noncontrolling interests Net income Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax, Portion Attributable to Parent Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax, Portion Attributable to Parent Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax, Portion Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest Other comprehensive income (loss) Exercise of common stock warrants Adjustments to Additional Paid in Capital, Warrant Issued Stock based compensation Adjustments to Additional Paid in Capital, Share-based Compensation, Requisite Service Period Recognition Cumulative dividends and cash dividends paid on Series A Preferred Stock and cumulative dividends on Series B Preferred Stock Dividends, Preferred Stock, Cash Dividends declared or paid to noncontrolling interests Noncontrolling Interest, Decrease from Distributions to Noncontrolling Interest Holders Other Stockholders' Equity, Other Balance Intangible Assets, net [Abstract] Intangible Assets, net [Abstract] Schedule of Finite-Lived Intangible Assets by Major Class [Table Text Block] Schedule of Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Table Text Block] Schedule of Finite-Lived Intangible Assets Amortization Expense [Table Text Block] Schedule of Finite-Lived Intangible Assets Amortization Expense [Table Text Block] Tabular disclosure of amortization expense for finite-lived intangible assets. Schedule of Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Future Amortization Expense [Table Text Block] Schedule of Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Future Amortization Expense [Table Text Block] Schedule of Goodwill [Abstract] Schedule of Goodwill [Abstract] Schedule of Goodwill [Table] Schedule of Goodwill [Table] GM Korea [Member] GM Korea [Member] GM Korea Goodwill [Line Items] Goodwill [Line Items] Goodwill from business combinations Goodwill, Acquired During Period Effect of foreign currency translation and other Goodwill, Translation Adjustments Accumulated impairment charges Goodwill, Impaired, Accumulated Impairment Loss Short-Term and Long-Term Debt [Abstract] Short-Term and Long-Term Debt [Abstract] Line of Credit Facility [Table] Line of Credit Facility [Table] Long-term Debt, Type [Axis] Long-term Debt, Type [Axis] Long-term Debt, Type [Domain] Long-term Debt, Type [Domain] Senior Notes 2016 to 2023 [Member] Senior Notes 2016 to 2023 [Member] Senior Notes 2016 to 2023 - 2.8% to 4.3% Extinguishment of Debt [Axis] Extinguishment of Debt [Axis] Extinguishment of Debt, Type [Domain] Extinguishment of Debt, Type [Domain] GM Korea preferred shares [Member] Securitization notes payable [Member] Securitization notes payable [Member] Securitization notes payable other than private securitization Fair Value, Hierarchy [Axis] Fair Value, Inputs, Level 3 [Member] Fair Value, Inputs, Level 3 [Member] Fair Value, Inputs, Level 2 [Member] Long-term and Short-term Debt, Type [Axis] Long-term and Short-term Debt, Type [Axis] Long-term and Short-term Debt, Type [Axis] Short-term Debt, Type [Domain] Short-term Debt, Type [Domain] Revolving Credit Facility [Member] Revolving Credit Facility [Member] Unsecured Debt [Member] Unsecured Debt [Member] Senior Notes [Member] Senior Notes [Member] Range [Axis] Range [Axis] Range [Domain] Range [Domain] Minimum [Member] Maximum [Member] Business Acquisition [Axis] Business Acquisition [Axis] Business Acquisition, Acquiree [Domain] Business Acquisition, Acquiree [Domain] Ally International Operations - Europe and Latin America except Brazil [Member] Ally International Operations - Europe and Latin America except Brazil [Member] Ally International Operations - European and Latin American automotive finance operations except for Brazil Intersegment Elimination [Member] One Year from Date of Balance Sheet [Member] One Year from Date of Balance Sheet [Member] This element represents disclosure of information (usually monetary impacts such as expected receipts or disbursements in settlement of contractual obligations) occurring within one year from the date of the statement of financial position. Such element is provided in connection with a five-year and thereafter disclosure requirement. More than One and within Two Years from the Date of Balance Sheet [Member] More than One and within Two Years from the Date of Balance Sheet [Member] This element represents disclosure of information (usually monetary impacts such as expected receipts or disbursements in settlement of contractual obligations) occurring after one and within two years from the date of the statement of financial position. Such element is provided in connection with a five-year and thereafter disclosure requirement. More than Two and within Three Years from the Date of Balance Sheet [Member] More than Two and within Three Years from the Date of Balance Sheet [Member] This element represents disclosure of information (usually monetary impacts such as expected receipts or disbursements in settlement of contractual obligations) occurring after two and within three years from the date of the statement of financial position. Such element is provided in connection with a five-year and thereafter disclosure requirement. More than Three and within Four Years from the Date of Balance Sheet [Member] More than Three and within Four Years from the Date of Balance Sheet [Member] This element represents disclosure of information (usually monetary impacts such as expected receipts or disbursements in settlement of contractual obligations) occurring after three and within four years from the date of the statement of financial position. Such element is provided in connection with a five-year and thereafter disclosure requirement. More than Four and within Five Years from the Date of Balance Sheet [Member] More than Four and within Five Years from the Date of Balance Sheet [Member] This element represents disclosure of information (usually monetary impacts such as expected receipts or disbursements in settlement of contractual obligations) occurring after four and within five years from the date of the statement of financial position. Such element is provided in connection with a five-year and thereafter disclosure requirement. More than Five Years from the Date of Balance Sheet and Thereafter [Member] More than Five Years from the Date of Balance Sheet and Thereafter [Member] This element represents disclosure of information (usually monetary impacts such as expected receipts or disbursements in settlement of contractual obligations) occurring after five years from the date of the statement of financial position. Such element is provided in connection with a five-year and thereafter disclosure requirement. Debt Instrument [Axis] Debt Instrument, Name [Domain] Secured Debt [Member] Secured Debt [Member] Short term and long term debt [Line Items] Line of Credit Facility [Line Items] Revolving Credit Facilities, Termination Years Revolving Credit Facilities, Termination Years Revolving Credit Facilities, Termination Years Line of Credit Facitlity, Armotization Period after Revolving Period Ends Line of Credit Facitlity, Armotization Period after Revolving Period Ends Line of credit facitlity, armotization period of the outstanding debt balance after revolving period ends. Extinguishment of Debt, Amount Extinguishment of Debt, Amount Repayments of Debt Repayments of Debt Line of Credit Facility, Amount Outstanding Line of Credit Facility, Amount Outstanding Securitization Notes Payable Securitization Notes Payable Amount of securitized debt issued by securitization trusts to third-party investors accounted for as secured borrowings. Secured Debt Secured Debt Senior Notes Senior Notes Unsecured Debt Unsecured Debt Carrying Amount Debt, Long-term and Short-term, Combined Amount Line of Credit Facility, Fair Value of Amount Outstanding Line of Credit Facility, Fair Value of Amount Outstanding Securitization notes payable, fair value Securitization notes payable, fair value The fair value measurement of securitized debt issued by securitization trusts to third-party investors accounted for as secured borrowings. Securitized Notes Payable, Fair Value Secured debt, fair value Fair value as of the balance sheet date , including the current and noncurrent portions, of collateralized debt obligations (with maturities initially due after one year or beyond the operating cycle, if longer). Such obligations include mortgage loans, chattel loans, and any other borrowings secured by assets of the borrower. Bank lines and credit facilities, carrying amount outstanding Bank lines and credit facilities, carrying amount outstanding Bank lines and credit facilities, carrying amount outstanding Bank lines and credit facilities, fair value outstanding Bank lines and credit facilities, fair value outstanding Bank lines and credit facilities, fair value outstanding Senior Notes, Fair Value Senior Notes, Fair Value The fair value of the amount outstanding at the balance sheet date related to senior notes. Unsecured debt, fair value Unsecured debt, fair value Fair value as of the balance sheet date , including the current and noncurrent portions, of uncollateralized debt obligations (with maturities initially due after one year or beyond the operating cycle, if longer). Fair Value Debt, fair value The fair value amount of long-term and short-term debt whether such amount is presented as a separate caption or as a parenthetical disclosure. Additionally, this element may be used in connection with the fair value disclosures required in the footnote disclosures to the financial statements. The element may be used in both the balance sheet and disclosure in the same submission. Debt Instrument, Increase, Additional Borrowings Debt Instrument, Increase, Additional Borrowings Debt, Weighted Average Interest Rate Debt, Weighted Average Interest Rate Debt Instrument, Interest Rate, Stated Percentage Debt Instrument, Interest Rate, Stated Percentage Debt Instrument, Face Amount Debt Instrument, Face Amount Debt Instrument, Maturity Date Debt Instrument, Maturity Date Long-term Debt, Maturities, Repayments of Principal in Next Twelve Months Long-term Debt, Maturities, Repayments of Principal in Next Twelve Months Long-term Debt, Maturities, Repayments of Principal in Year Two Long-term Debt, Maturities, Repayments of Principal in Year Two Long-term Debt, Maturities, Repayments of Principal in Year Three Long-term Debt, Maturities, Repayments of Principal in Year Three Long-term Debt, Maturities, Repayments of Principal in Year Four Long-term Debt, Maturities, Repayments of Principal in Year Four Long-term Debt, Maturities, Repayments of Principal in Year Five Long-term Debt, Maturities, Repayments of Principal in Year Five Long-term Debt, Maturities, Repayments of Principal after Year Five Long-term Debt, Maturities, Repayments of Principal after Year Five Long-term debt, Maturities, Repayments of Principal, Total Long-term Debt, Maturities, Repayments of Principal Total repayments of long-term debt principal based on contractual maturities. Interest Payable Interest Payable Long-term Debt, Maturities, Repayments of Principal and Interest Long-term Debt, Maturities, Repayments of Principal and Interest Long-term Debt, Maturities, Repayments of Principal and Interest Depreciation, Amortization and Impaiment Charges [Text Block] Depreciation, Amortization and Impairment Charges [Text Block] Disclosure on depreciation, amortization and impairment charges of long-lived assets, including disclosures on impairment charges and fair value of the equipment on operating leases. Stock Incentive Plans [Abstract] Stock Incentive Plans [Abstract] Schedule of Restricted Stock Units Activity [Table Text Block] Schedule of Nonvested Restricted Stock Units Activity [Table Text Block] Schedule of Compensation Cost for Stock Incentive Plans [Table Text Block] Schedule of Compensation Cost for Share-based Payment Arrangements, Allocation of Share-based Compensation Costs by Plan [Table Text Block] GM Financial Finance Receivables [Text Block] Financing Receivables [Text Block] Goodwill [Abstract] Goodwill [Abstract] Schedule of Goodwill [Table Text Block] Schedule of Goodwill [Table Text Block] Earnings Per Share [Table] Schedule of Earnings Per Share, Diluted, by Common Class, Including Two Class Method [Table] Preferred Stock [Axis] Preferred Stock [Axis] Preferred Stock [Domain] Preferred Stock [Domain] Earnings (Loss) Per Share [Line Items] Earnings Per Share, Diluted, by Common Class, Including Two Class Method [Line Items] Less: cumulative dividends on preferred stock Preferred Stock Dividends, Income Statement Impact Less: undistributed earnings allocated to Series B Preferred Stock participating securities Undistributed Earnings Allocated to Participating Securities Less: undistributed earnings allocated to Serioes B participating securities, diluted Undistributed Earnings Allocated to Participating Securities, Diluted For diluted earnings per share calculation, earnings allocated (not distributed) to participating securities under the two-class method to the extent that participating securities may share in earnings as if all of the earnings for the period had been distributed. Add: preferred dividends to holders of Serioes B Preferred Stock Convertible Preferred Dividends, Net of Tax Net income attributable to common stockholders - Basic Net income attibutable to common stockholders - Diluted Net Income (Loss) Available to Common Stockholders, Diluted Weighted-average common shares outstanding - basic Dilutive effect of warrants Incremental Common Shares Attributable to Call Options and Warrants Dilutive effect of conversion of Series B Preferred Stock Incremental Common Shares Attributable to Conversion of Preferred Stock Divlutive effect of restricted stock units Incremental Common Shares Attributable to Share-based Payment Arrangements Weighted-average common shares outstanding - diluted Earned but undeclared dividends Preferred Stock, Amount of Preferred Dividends in Arrears Earnings Per Share,Narratives [Abstract] Earnings Per Share, Basic and Diluted, Other Disclosures [Abstract] Lower share price boundary for two class method Lower share price boundary for two class method Lower Share price boundary for two class method Higher share price boundary for two class method Higher Share Price Boundary For Two Class Method Higher share price boundary for two class method Number of common stock consecutive trading days Number of common stock consecutive trading days Number of common stock consecutive trading days that are used in the calculation of the average closing price of stock. Change of method impact to earnings per share Change of method impact to earnings per share Dollar amount impact to earnings per share due to change of applicable method (i.e. from if-converted to two-class method). Warrants excluded from diluted EPS Antidilutive Securities Excluded from Computation of Earnings Per Share, Amount Segment Reporting [Abstract] Schedule of Segment Reporting Information, by Segment [Table Text Block] Schedule of Segment Reporting Information, by Segment [Table Text Block] Derivative Financial Instruments and Risk Management [Text Block] Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities Disclosure [Text Block] Schedule of Accounts, Notes, Loans and Financing Receivable [Table] Schedule of Accounts, Notes, Loans and Financing Receivable [Table] Class of Financing Receivable [Axis] Class of Financing Receivable [Domain] Finance Receivable by Occurence [Axis] Finance Receivable by Occurence [Axis] Finance Receivable by Occurence [Axis] Pre-acquisition [Domain] Pre-acquisition [Domain] Pre-acquisition Post Acquisition [Member] Post-acquisition [Member] After the acquisition of the reporting entity. Financing Receivable Information by Portfolio Segment [Axis] Portfolio Segment [Axis] Financing Receivable Allowance [Domain] Financing Receivable Allowance [Domain] Commercial Finance Receivables [Member] Commercial Portfolio Segment [Member] Finance Receivable [Line Items] Accounts, Notes, Loans and Financing Receivable [Line Items] Allownace for Loan Losses - Current Allowance for Notes, Loans and Financing Receivable, Current Pre-acquisition finance receivables, outstanding balance Certain Loans Acquired in Transfer Not Accounted for as Debt Securities, Outstanding Balance Pre-acquisition finance receivables, carrying amount Certain Loans Acquired in Transfer Not Accounted for as Debt Securities, Carrying Amount, Net Financing Receivable, Gross Financing Receivable, Gross Allowance for Loan Losses Financing Receivable, Allowance for Credit Losses Finance Receivables, Net Financing Receivable, Net Ally Financial international operations acquisition Business Combination, Acquired Receivables, Fair Value Loans funded or purchased Payments to Acquire Loans Receivable Charge-offs Financing Receivable, Allowance for Credit Losses, Write-downs Principal collections and other all other finance recievables Change in carrying amount adjustment Certain Loans Acquired in Transfer Not Accounted for as Debt Securities, Change in Carrying Amount Adjustment The changes of carrying amount adjustments (for example, unamortized accretable yield and allowance for loan losses) during the reporting period. This relates to loans not accounted for debt securities with evidence of deterioration of credit quality since origination that were acquired by completion of a transfer for which it is probable, at acquisition, that the investor will be unable to collect all contractually required payments receivable. Effect of foreign currency Finance Receivables, Translation Adjustment Amount of foreign currency translation adjustment increasing or decreasing the finance recievables amount. Finance Receivables, Fair Value Receivables, Fair Value Disclosure Short-Term and Long-Term Debt Automotive [Abstract] Short-Term and Long-Term Debt Automotive [Abstract] Schedule of Maturities of Long-term Debt [Table Text Block] Schedule of Maturities of Long-term Debt [Table Text Block] Debt carrying amount and fair value [Table Text Block] Schedule of Carrying Values and Estimated Fair Values of Debt Instruments [Table Text Block] Commitments and Contingencies [Abstract] Commitments and Contingencies [Abstract] Schedule of Guarantor Obligations [Table] Schedule of Guarantor Obligations [Table] Geographical [Axis] Geographical [Axis] Segment, Geographical [Domain] Segment, Geographical [Domain] Brazil [Member] BRAZIL Market Incentive Programs [Axis] Market Incentive Programs [Axis] Consists of residual support, risk sharing, and vehicle repurchase agreements with Ally Financial. Market Incentive Programs [Domain] Market Incentive Programs [Domain] Market Incentive Programs [Domain] Vehicle repurchase obligations [Member] Vehicle repurchase obligations [Member] This agreement requires the repurchase of the investee's financed inventory invoiced to dealers with limited exclusions, in the event of a qualifying voluntary or involuntary termination of the dealer's sales and service agreement. Guarantor Obligations, Nature [Axis] Guarantor Obligations, Nature [Domain] Third party comercial loans and other obligations [Member] Guarantee Type, Other [Member] Guarantees of Product Related Claims [Member] Guarantees of other product-related claims. Ally Financial [Member] Ally Financial [Member] Investment in Ally Financial Common Stock. Loss Contingencies by Nature of Contingency [Axis] Loss Contingency Nature [Axis] Loss Contingency, Nature [Domain] Loss Contingency, Nature [Domain] Korean Labor [Member] Korean Labor [Member] Korean Labor [Member] Canadian Dealer Litigation [Member] Canadian Dealer Litigation [Member] Canadian Dealer Litigation UAW Lawsuit [Member] UAW Lawsuit [Member] UAW Lawsuit [Member] Nova Scotia Claims Litigation [Member] Nova Scotia Claims Litigation [Member] Nova Scotia Claims Litigation Commitment and Contingencies [line items] Guarantor Obligations [Line Items] Guarantees [Abstract] Guarantees [Abstract] Liability Recorded Guarantor Obligations, Current Carrying Value Maximum Liability Guarantor Obligations, Maximum Exposure, Undiscounted Other contingencies [Abstract] Other contingencies except for guarantees. Other Litigation Liability Estimated Litigation Liability Product Liability Loss Contingency Accrual, Product Liability, Gross Environmental Liability Accrual for Environmental Loss Contingencies Other Litigation-Related Liability and Tax Administrative Matters [Abstract] Other Litigation Related Liability Footnote [Abstract] Other Litigation Related Liability Footnote [Abstract] Indirect Tax-Related Escrow Deposit Indirect Tax-Related Escrow Deposit Represents the contingent indirect tax-related escrow deposit amount that may be required. Number of Employees Involved in Litigation Number of Employees Involved in Litigation The number of employees involved in a specific legal case. Dealers in Purported Class Dealers in Purported Class The number of GMCL dealers in a purported class action suit. Litigation Claims Loss Contingency, Damages Sought, Value Loss Contingency, Range of Possible Loss, Portion Not Accrued Loss Contingency, Range of Possible Loss, Portion Not Accrued Dealers in Defined Class That Will Not Participate in Class Action Dealers in Defined Class That Will Not Participate in Class Action The number of dealers within the certified class definition that have indicated that they will not participate in the class action lawsuit. Estimate of Possible Loss Loss Contingency, Estimate of Possible Loss Number of Claims Asserted Number of Claims Asserted Reperesents the number of claims asserted. Notes Payable Notes Payable Number of Intercompany Loans Number of Intercompany Loans Represents the number of intercompany loans made. Loans Payable Liabilities Subject to Compromise, Debt and Accrued Interest Intercompany Loans Payable Amount After Compromised in Bankruptcy Intercompany loans payable compromised in bankruptcy Recorded amount of intercompany loans payable after compromised in bankruptcy. Estimated Maximum Possible Loss Loss Contingency, Range of Possible Loss, Maximum Increase in Excise Tax Rate Increase in Excise Tax Rate Reperesents the increase (decrease) in the excise tax rate. Environmental Liability [Abstract] Environmental Remediation Obligations [Abstract] Environmental Remediation Years of Cost to Incur, Min Enrironmental Remediation Years of Cost to Incur, Min The minimum number of years over which the accrued enrironmental remediation cost to incur. Environmental Remediation Years of Cost to Incur, Max Enrironmental Remediation Years of Cost to Incur, Max The maximum number of years over which the accrued enrironmental remediation cost to incur. Environmental Remediation Losses, Low Estimate Environmental Exit Costs, Reasonably Possible Additional Losses, Low Estimate Environmental Remediation Losses, High Estimate Environmental Exit Costs, Reasonably Possible Additional Losses, High Estimate GME Planned Spending Guarantee [Abstract] Planned Spending Guarantee Footnote [Abstract] Planned Spending Guarantee Footnote [Abstract] Planned Spending Guarantee - Euro Planned Spending Guarantee - Euro Planned spending guarantee amount during the required period. Inventory Pledged as Collateral Pledged Assets, Not Separately Reported, Other Goodwill [Text Block] Goodwill Disclosure [Text Block] Earnings Per Share [Text Block] Earnings Per Share [Text Block] Restructuring and Other Initiatives [Abstract] Restructuring and Other Initiatives [Abstract] Restructuring and Other Initiatives [Text Block] Restructuring and Related Activities Disclosure [Text Block] Short-term Debt, Type [Axis] Short-term Debt, Type [Axis] Short-term Debt [Member] Short-term Debt [Member] Variable Interest Entities Balance Sheet And Off-Balance Sheet Items [Axis] Variable Interest Entities Balance Sheet And Off-Balance Sheet Items [Axis] Variable Interest Entities Balance Sheet And Off-Balance Sheet Items [Axis] Variable Interest Entities Balance Sheet And Off-Balance Sheet Items [Domain] Variable Interest Entities Balance Sheet And Off-Balance Sheet Items [Domain] Variable Interest Entities Balance Sheet And Off-Balance Sheet Items [Domain] Accounts and Notes Receivable [Member] Accounts and Notes Receivable [Member] Accounts and Notes Receivable Other Liabilities [Member] Other Liabilities [Member] Loan Commitments [Member] Loan Commitments [Member] Represents the commitments to assume repayment of loans. Other Liquidity Arrangements [Member] Other Liquidity Arrangements [Member] Other lquidity arangements including additional contingent future capital funding requirements. Total Off-Balance Sheet Arrangements [Member] Total Off-Balance Sheet Arrangements [Member] Total Off-Balance Sheet Arrangements Classification of Debt [Axis] Classification of Debt [Axis] Classification of Debt Classification of Debt [Domain] Classification of Debt [Domain] Classification of Debt Current Derivative [Member] Derivative [Member] Long-term Debt [Member] Long-term Debt [Member] Variable Interest Entities Assets [Axis] Variable Interest Entities Assets [Axis] Variable Interest Entities Assets Variable Interest Entities Assets [Domain] Variable Interest Entities Assets [Domain] [Domain] for Variable Interest Entities Assets Equity Method Investments [Member] Equity Method Investments [Member] Variable Interest Entities Liabilities [Axis] Variable Interest Entities Liabilities [Axis] Variable Interest Entities Liabilities Variable Interest Entity Liabilities [Domain] Variable Interest Entity Liabilities [Domain] [Domain] for Variable Interest Entity Liabilities Accounts Payable [Member] Accounts Payable [Member] Accrued Liabilities [Member] Accrued Liabilities [Member] Variable Interest Entities Off-Balance Sheet Items [Axis] Variable Interest Entities Off-Balance Sheet Items [Axis] Variable Interest Entities Off-Balance Sheet Items Consolidated VIE [Member] Variable Interest Entity, Primary Beneficiary, Aggregated Disclosure [Member] Variable Interest Entity, Primary Beneficiary [Member] Variable Interest Entity, Primary Beneficiary [Member] Nonconsolidated VIEs [Member] Variable Interest Entity, Not Primary Beneficiary, Aggregated Disclosure [Member] Restricted cash Restricted Cash and Cash Equivalents Securitized Assets Securitized Assets The debt issued by special purpose entities is backed by the cash flows related to finance receivables and leasing related assets transferred by GM Financial to the VIEs. Consolidated VIE [Abstract] Consolidated VIE [Abstract] Consolidated VIE [Abstract] Total Assets Variable Interest Entity, Consolidated, Carrying Amount, Assets Total Liabilities Variable Interest Entity, Consolidated, Carrying Amount, Liabilities Revenue, Net Net income Non-Recourse Debt Non-Recourse Debt Non-consolidated VIE [Abstract] Non-consolidated VIE [Abstract] Non-consolidated VIE [Abstract] Carrying Amount of Assets Variable Interest Entity, Nonconsolidated, Carrying Amount, Assets Carrying Amount of Liabilities Variable Interest Entity, Nonconsolidated, Carrying Amount, Liabilities Maximum Exposure to Loss Variable Interest Entity, Reporting Entity Involvement, Maximum Loss Exposure, Amount Cost Method Investee Ownership Percent Cost Method Investee Ownership Percent Represents the cost method investee ownership percent. Investment in Ally Financial [Abstract] Investment in Ally Financial [Abstract] Fair value and carrying amount of Ally Financial common and preferred stock Carrying Amount Other Investments and Securities, at Cost Fair Value Cost Method Investments, Fair Value Disclosure Schedule of Finite-Lived Intangible Assets by Major Class [Table] Schedule of Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Table] Finite-Lived Intangible Assets by Major Class [Axis] Finite-Lived Intangible Assets by Major Class [Axis] Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Major Class Name [Domain] Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Major Class Name [Domain] Technology and Intellectual Property [Member] Unpatented Technology [Member] Brands [Member] Trade Names [Member] Dealer Network and Customer Relationships [Member] Customer Relationships [Member] Favorable contracts [Member] Contractual Rights [Member] PSA Technology and Intellectual Property [Member] PSA Technology and Intellectual Property [Member] PSA Technology and Intellectual Property [Member] Intangible Assets [Line Items] Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items] Gross Carrying Amount Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Gross Accumulated Amortization Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Accumulated Amortization Net Carrying Amount Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Net Non amortizing in process research and development Indefinite-Lived Intangible Assets (Excluding Goodwill) Total Intangible Assets, Gross Total Intangible Assets, Gross Sum of the amounts of all intangible assets, excluding goodwill, as of the balance sheet date, before accumulated amortization and impairment charges. Total Intangible Assets, Net Amortization Expense Related to Intangible Assets Amortization of Intangible Assets Purchase Obligation - Acquired Finite-Lived Intagible Asset Purchase Obligation Payments to acquire intangible assets Payments to Acquire Intangible Assets Acquired Finite-lived Intangible Asset, Amount Acquired Finite-lived Intangible Asset, Amount Estimated Amortization Expense [Abstract] Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Net, Amortization Expense, Fiscal Year Maturity [Abstract] 2014 Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Amortization Expense, Next Twelve Months 2015 Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Amortization Expense, Year Two 2016 Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Amortization Expense, Year Three 2017 Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Amortization Expense, Year Four 2018 Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Amortization Expense, Year Five Acquisition and Disposal of Businesses [Abstract] Acquisition and Disposal of Businesses [Abstract] Schedule of Business Acquisitions, by Acquisition [Table] Schedule of Business Acquisitions, by Acquisition [Table] Ally International Operations [Member] Ally International Operations [Member] Ally Financial International Operations Ally International Operations - Europe and Latin America except France, Portugal and Brazil [Member] Ally International Operations - Europe and Latin America except France, Portugal and Brazil [Member] Ally International Operations - European and Latin American automotive finance operations except for France, Portugal and Brazil Ally International Operations - Brazil and GMAC-SAIC [Member] Ally International Operations - Brazil and GMAC-SAIC [Member] Ally International Operations - Brazil and GMAC-SAIC Automotive Finance Company Limited Ally International Operations - France and Portugal [Member] Ally International Operations - France and Portugal [Member] Ally International Operations - France and Portugal HKJV [Member] HKJV [Member] SAIC GM Investment Limited, General Motors India Private Limited and Chevrolet Sales India Private Limited collectively called India Operation. GMAC SA [Member] GMAC SA [Member] GMAC SA [Member] Receivable Type [Axis] Receivable Type [Axis] Receivable Type [Domain] Receivable Type [Domain] Not Subject to ASC 310-30 [Member] Not Subject to ASC 310-30 [Member] Not Subject to ASC 310-30 Business Acquisition [Line Items] Business Acquisition [Line Items] Percentage of Voting Interests to be Acquired in the Business Combination Percentage of Voting Interests to be Acquired in the Business Combination Percentage of voting equity interests to be acquired in the business combination. Effective Date of Acquisition Business Acquisition, Effective Date of Acquisition Aggregate consideration for acquisitions Business Acquisition, Cost of Acquired Entity, Purchase Price Contingent consideration for acquisitions Business Acquisition, Cost of Acquired Entity, Liabilities Incurred Repayments of Assumed Debt Repayments of Assumed Debt Expected Total Consideration of Unconsummated Transaction Expected Total Consideration of Unconsummated Transaction Expected total consideration of unconsummated transaction that will depend on the amount of assets and liabilities as well as other adjustments as of the date of closing. Net Intercompany Receivables Acquired Net Intercompany Receivables Acquired Net intercompany receivables acquired in a business combination that will be eliminated in consolidation. Cash Business Acquisition, Purchase Price Allocation, Current Assets, Cash and Cash Equivalents Finance receivables Other assets, including identifiable intangible assets Business Acquisition, Purchase Price Allocation, Other Noncurrent Assets Secured and unsecured debt Business Combination, Recognized Identifiable Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed, Financial Liabilities Other liabilities Business Acquisition, Purchase Price Allocation, Other Noncurrent Liabilities Identifiable net assets acquired Business Combination, Recognized Identifiable Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed, Net Goodwill resulting from the acquisition Business Acquisition, Purchase Price Allocation, Goodwill Amount Receivables acquired with deteriroated credit quality, Contractually Required Payments Receivable at Acquisition Certain Loans Acquired in Transfer Not Accounted for as Debt Securities, Acquired During Period, Contractually Required Payments Receivable at Acquisition Receivables acquired with deteriroated credit quality, Cash Flows Expected to be Collected at Acquisition Certain Loans Acquired in Transfer Not Accounted for as Debt Securities, Acquired During Period, Cash Flows Expected to be Collected at Acquisition Receivables acquired with deteriroated credit quality, at Acquisition, Fair Value Certain Loans Acquired in Transfer Not Accounted for as Debt Securities, Acquired During Period, at Acquisition, at Fair Value Acquired Receivables, contractually required payments receivable at acquisition Business Combination, Acquired Receivables, Gross Contractual Amount Acquired Receivables, cash flows not expected to be collected Business Combination, Acquired Receivables, Estimated Uncollectible Total net sales and revenue Pro forma total net sales and revenue Business Acquisition, Pro Forma Revenue Pro forma net income to stockholders Business Acquisition, Pro Forma Net Income (Loss) Cumulative Percentage Ownership in HKJV Subsidiary or Equity Method Investee, Cumulative Percentage Ownership after All Transactions Cost of Acquired Entity, Cash Paid Business Acquisition, Cost of Acquired Entity, Cash Paid Percentage of Voting Interests Acquired Business Acquisition, Percentage of Voting Interests Acquired Stockholders' Equity Note [Abstract] Stockholders' Equity [Text Block] Stockholders' Equity Note Disclosure [Text Block] Variable Interest Entities [Text Block] Variable Interest Entities [Text Block] Disclosure of the significant judgments and assumptions made in determining whether a variable interest (as defined) held by the entity requires the variable interest entity (VIE) (as defined) to be consolidated and (or) disclose information about its involvement with the VIE, individually or in aggregate (as applicable); the nature of restrictions, if any, on the consolidated VIE's assets and on the settlement of its liabilities reported by an entity in its statement of financial position, including the carrying amounts of such assets and liabilities; the nature of, and changes in, the risks associated with involvement in the VIE; how involvement with the VIE affects the entity's financial position, financial performance, and cash flows; the lack of recourse if creditors (or beneficial interest holders) of the consolidated VIE have no recourse to the general credit of the primary beneficiary (if applicable); the terms of arrangements, giving consideration to both explicit arrangements and implicit variable interests, if any, that could require the entity to provide financial support to the VIE, including events or circumstances that could expose the entity to a loss; the methodology used by the entity for determining whether or not it is the primary beneficiary of the variable interest entity; the significant factors considered and judgments made in determining that the power to direct the activities of a VIE that most significantly impact the VIE's economic performance are shared (as defined); the carrying amounts and classification of assets and liabilities of the VIE included in the statement of financial position; the entity's maximum exposure to loss, if any, as a result of its involvement with the VIE, including how the maximum exposure is determined and significant sources of the entity's exposure to the VIE; a comparison of the carrying amounts of the assets and liabilities and the entity's maximum exposure to loss; information about any liquidity arrangements, guarantees, and (or) other commitments by third parties that may affect the fair value or risk of the entity's variable interest in the VIE; whether or not the entity has provided financial support or other support (explicitly or implicitly) to the VIE that it was not previously contractually required to provide or whether the entity intends to provide that support, including the type and amount of the support and the primary reasons for providing the support; and supplemental information the entity determines necessary to provide. Contractual Maturity Table [Abstract] Contractual Maturity Table [Abstract] Trading Securities, Unrealized Holding Loss Trading Securities, Unrealized Holding Loss Due in one year or less, amortized cost Available-for-sale Securities, Debt Maturities, Next Twelve Months, Amortized Cost Basis Due in one year or less, fair value Available-for-sale Securities, Debt Maturities, Next Twelve Months, Fair Value Due after one year through five years, amortized cost Available-for-sale Securities, Debt Maturities, Year Two Through Five, Amortized Cost Basis Due after one year through five years, fair value Available-for-sale Securities, Debt Maturities, Year Two Through Five, Fair Value Total contractual maturities of available-for-sale securities, amortized cost Available-for-sale Securities, Debt Maturities, Amortized Cost Basis Total contractual maturities of available-for-sale securities, fair value Available-For-Sale Securites, Debt Maturities, Fair Value This item represents the fair value of debt securities by contractual maturity range from the balance sheet date and which are categorized neither as held-to-maturity nor trading securities. Proceeds from Sale and Maturity of Marketable Securities [Abstract] Proceeds from Sale and Maturity of Marketable Securities [Abstract] Available-for-sale Securities, Sale Proceeds Available-for-sale Securities, Gross Realized Gains (Losses), Sale Proceeds Schedule of Restructuring and Related Costs [Table] Schedule of Restructuring and Related Costs [Table] Restructuring Type [Axis] Restructuring Type [Axis] Type of Restructuring [Domain] Type of Restructuring [Domain] Oshawa Consolidated Plant Closing [Member] Oshawa Consolidated Plant closing [Member] Oshawa Consolidated Plant closing [Member] Germany and United Kingdom Separation Programs [Member] Germany and United Kingdom Separation Programs [Member] Germany separation program. Korea and Australia Separation Programs [Member] Korea and Australia Separation Program [Member] Korea and Australia Separation Program [Member] Separation Program in Brazil [Member] Separation Program in Brazil [Member] Separation program in Brazil. 2011 UAW Labor Agreement [Member] 2011 UAW Labor Agreement [Member] 2011 UAW Labor Agreement Germany Separation Program GERMANY Restructuring Cost and Reserve [Line Items] Restructuring Cost and Reserve [Line Items] Restructuring Reserve [Roll Forward] Restructuring Reserve [Roll Forward] Beginning Balance Restructuring Reserve Additions, interest accretion and other Restructuring Charges Payments Restructuring Reserve, Settled with Cash Revisions to Estimates Restructuring Reserve, Accrual Adjustment Effect of Foreign Currency Restructuring Reserve, Translation Adjustment Ending Balance Remaining Payments Including Temporary Layoffs Benefits Remaining Payments Including Temporary Layoffs Benefits The amount of temporary layoffs benefits included in the payments related to restructuring and other initiatives. Restructuring and Related Cost, Expected Cost Restructuring and Related Cost, Expected Cost Restructuring and Related Cost, Cost Incurred to Date Restructuring and Related Cost, Cost Incurred to Date Number of Employees Affected Number of Employees Affected Number of employees affected by restructuring and early retirement programs. Number Of Additional Employees Affected Number Of Additional Employees Affected Number of additional employees affected by restructuring and early retirement program in the future. Defined Benefit Plans and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans Disclosures [Table] Defined Benefit Plans and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans Disclosures [Table] Pension Plan Amendments [Axis] Pension Plan Amendments [Axis] Includes settlements or amendments to existing pension plans. Pension Plan Amendments [Domain] Pension Plan Amendments [Domain] Includes settlements and amendments to existing pension plans. Canadian Salaried Defined Benefit Pension Plan [Member] Canadian Salaried Defined Benefit Pension Plan [Member] Canadian Salaried Defined Benefit Pension Plan Canadian Salaried Retiree Healthcare Plan [Member] Canadian Salaried Healthcare Plan [Member] Canadian Salaried Healthcare Plan U.S. Salaried Defined Benefit Pension Plan [Member] U.S. Salaried Defined Benefit Pension Plan [Member] U.S. Salaried Defined Benefit Pension Plan Defined Benefit Plans and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans Disclosures [Axis] Defined Benefit Plans and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans [Axis] Defined Benefit Plans and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans [Domain] Defined Benefit Plans and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans [Domain] US Pension Plans [Member] United States Pension Plans of US Entity, Defined Benefit [Member] Non-US Pension Plans [Member] Foreign Pension Plans, Defined Benefit [Member] US OPEB Plans [Member] United States Postretirement Benefit Plans of US Entity, Defined Benefit [Member] Non-US OPEB Plans [Member] Foreign Postretirement Benefit Plans, Defined Benefit [Member] Defined Benefit Plans and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans [Line Items] Defined Benefit Plans and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans Table Text Block [Line Items] Defined Benefit Plan, Net Periodic Benefit Cost [Abstract] Defined Benefit Plan, Net Periodic Benefit Cost [Abstract] Service Cost Service and Administratative cost The actuarial present value of benefits attributed to the pension benefit formula to services rendered by employees during the period and administrative expenses Service Cost Defined Benefit Plan, Service Cost Interest Cost Defined Benefit Plan, Interest Cost Expected Return on Plan Assets Defined Benefit Plan, Expected Return on Plan Assets Amortization of Prior Service Credit Defined Benefit Plan, Amortization of Prior Service Cost (Credit) Recognized net actuarial loss Defined Benefit Plan, Amortization of Gains (Losses) Curtailments, settlements and other (gains) losses Net Periodic Benefit (Income) Expense Defined Benefit Plan, Net Periodic Benefit Cost Defined Benefit Plan, Curtailments Defined Benefit Plan, Curtailments Defined Benefit Plan, Plan Amendments Defined Benefit Plan, Plan Amendments Defined Benefit Plan, Interim Remeasurement Defined Benefit Plan, Interim Remeasurement Represents the change to pension liability and corresponding change to the net actuarial gain/loss component of Accumulated other comprehensive income/loss relating to goodwill impairment testing. Condensed Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income [Abstract] Condensed Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income [Abstract] Other comprehensive income (loss), net of tax Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax [Abstract] Foreign currency translation adjustments Cash flow hedging losses, net Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Derivatives Qualifying as Hedges, Net of Tax Unrealized losses on securities, net Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Unrealized Holding Gain (Loss) on Securities, Net of Tax Net of tax amount of unrealized holding gain (loss) after reclassification adjustments and transfers on available-for-sale securities. Defined benefit plans, net Comprehensive income Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax, Including Portion Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest Comprehensive (income) loss attributable to noncontrolling interests Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax, Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest Comprehensive income attributable to stockholders Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax, Attributable to Parent Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheet Parenthetical [Abstract] Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheet Parenthetical [Abstract] Preferred Stock, par value Preferred Stock, Par or Stated Value Per Share Common Stock, par value Common Stock, Par or Stated Value Per Share Allowance for Doubtful Accounts and Notes Receivable, Current Allowance for Doubtful Accounts Receivable, Current Gross Finance Receivables Transferred to Special Purpose Entities Gross Finance Receivables Transferred to Special Purpose Entities Gross Finance Receivables Transferred to Special Purpose Entities Gross Finance Receivables Transferred to Special Purpose Entities Noncurrent Gross Finance Receivables Transferred to Special Purpose Entities Noncurrent Gross Finance Receivables Transferred to Special Purpose Entities Noncurrent Operating Lease Assets Transferred to Special Purpose Entities Operating Lease Assets Transferred to Special Purpose Entities Operating lease assets transferred to special purpose entities, by major property class, net of accumulated depreciation, subject to or available for lease as of the balance sheet date. Securitized Notes Payable Stock Incentive Plans [Text Block] Disclosure of Compensation Related Costs, Share-based Payments [Text Block] Product Warranty Liability [Text Block] Product Warranty Disclosure [Text Block] Commitment and contingencies [Table Text Block] Schedule of Loss Contingencies by Contingency [Table Text Block] Acquisition And Disposals Of Businesses [Abstract] Acquisition and Disposals of Businesses [Abstract] Acquisition of Businesses [Text Block] Business Combination Disclosure [Text Block] Schedule of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Loss [Table Text Block] Schedule of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) [Table Text Block] Pensions and Other Postretirement Benefits [Text Block] Pension and Other Postretirement Benefits Disclosure [Text Block] Business Combinations [Abstract] Schedule of Business Acquisitions, by Acquisition [Table Text Block] Schedule of Business Acquisitions, by Acquisition [Table Text Block] Business Acquisition, Pro Forma Information [Table Text Block] Business Acquisition, Pro Forma Information [Table Text Block] Document And Entity Information [Abstract] Document and Entity Information(Abstract) Document Information [Table] Document Information [Table] Document Information, Document [Axis] Document Information, Document [Axis] Document [Domain] Document [Domain] Document Information [Line Items] Document Information [Line Items] Entity Registrant Name Entity Registrant Name Entity Central Index Key Entity Central Index Key Current Fiscal Year End Date Current Fiscal Year End Date Entity Filer Category Entity Filer Category Document Type Document Type Document Period End Date Document Period End Date Document Fiscal Year Focus Document Fiscal Year Focus Document Fiscal Period Focus Document Fiscal Period Focus Amendment Flag Amendment Flag Entity Common Stock, Shares Outstanding Entity Common Stock, Shares Outstanding Entity Well-known Seasoned Issuer Entity Well-known Seasoned Issuer Entity Voluntary Filers Entity Voluntary Filers Entity Current Reporting Status Entity Current Reporting Status Income Tax Expense (Benefit) [Abstract] Income Taxes [Text Block] Income Tax Disclosure [Text Block] Derivative Instrument Risk [Axis] Derivative Instrument Risk [Axis] Derivative Contract Type [Domain] Derivative Contract Type [Domain] Foreign Exchange Contract [Member] Foreign Exchange Contract [Member] Level 3 [Member] Collateral for Derivatives Collateral for Derivatives Collateral for derivatives provided to counter parties. Derivative, Notional Amount Derivative, Notional Amount Derivative Assets, Current Derivative Assets, Current Derivative Assets, Noncurrent Derivative Assets, Noncurrent Derivative Asset, Fair Value, Gross Asset Derivative Asset, Fair Value, Gross Asset Derivative Liabilities, Current Derivative Liabilities, Current Derivative Liabilities, Noncurrent Derivative Liabilities, Noncurrent Derivative Liability, Fair Value, Gross Liability Derivative Liability, Fair Value, Gross Liability Derivative Asset, Fair Value, Gross Asset Derivative Instruments Not Designated as Hedging Instruments, Asset, at Fair Value Derivative Liability, Fair Value, Gross Liability Derivative Instruments Not Designated as Hedging Instruments, Liability, at Fair Value Realized/Unrealized Gain (Loss) Included in Earnings Fair Value, Measurement with Unobservable Inputs Reconciliation, Recurring Basis, Asset, Gain (Loss) Included in Earnings Gains (Losses) on Derivative [Abstract] Derivative, Gain (Loss) on Derivative, Net [Abstract] Gains (Losses) Recorded in Interest income and other non-operating income, net Derivative, Gain (Loss) on Derivative, Net GM Financial Derivatives [Abstract] Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities Disclosure [Abstract] Derivative Asset, Notional Amount Derivative Asset, Notional Amount Derivative Liability, Notional Amount Derivative Liability, Notional Amount Loans Provided to Aquired Ally Entities Loans and Leases Receivable, Gross, Foreign Schedule of Financing Receivable, Allowance for Credit Losses [Table] Schedule of Financing Receivable, Allowance for Credit Losses [Table] Financing Receivable, Allowance for Credit Losses [Line Items] Financing Receivable, Allowance for Credit Losses [Line Items] Balance at beginning of period Provision for loan losses Provision for Loan, Lease, and Other Losses Charge-offs Recoveries Financing Receivable, Allowance for Credit Losses, Recovery Balance at end of period Basis of Presentation and Significant Accounting Policies [Abstract] Basis of Presentation and Significant Accounting Policies [Abstract] Use of Estimates in the Preparation of the Financial Statements [Policy Text Block] Use of Estimates, Policy [Policy Text Block] Recently Adopted Accounting Principles [Policy Text Block] New Accounting Pronouncements, Policy [Policy Text Block] Schedule of Restructuring and Related Costs [Table Text Block] Schedule of Restructuring and Related Costs [Table Text Block] Accounts, Notes, Loans and Financing Receivable [Line Items] Finance receivables, net [Table Text Block] Schedule of Accounts, Notes, Loans and Financing Receivable [Table Text Block] Finance Receivable Activity [Table Text Block] Finance Receivable Activity [Table Text Block] Tabular disclosure of Finance Receivables activities during reporting period (examples include loans purchased, credit losses, principal collections and carrying value adjustments). Finance Receivables Fair Value [Table Text Block] Finance Receivables Fair Value [Table Text Block] Tabular disclosure summarizing the estimated fair value, carrying amount and methods and assumptions used in valuing finance receivables. Accretable Yield [Table Text Block] Accretable Yield [Table Text Block] Tabular disclosure summarizing changes in the accretable yield balance Allowance for Credit Losses on Finance Receivables [Table Text Block] Allowance for Credit Losses on Financing Receivables [Table Text Block] Finance Receivables Credit Quality [Table Text Block] Financing Receivable Credit Quality Indicators [Table Text Block] Consumer Finance Receivables Delinquentcy [Table Text Block] Past Due Financing Receivables [Table Text Block] Troubled Debt Restructurings on Finance Receivables [Table Text Block] Troubled Debt Restructurings on Financing Receivables [Table Text Block] Commitments and Contingencies Disclosure [Abstract] Commitments And Contingencies [Text Block] Commitments Contingencies and Guarantees [Text Block] Schedule of Financing Receivable, Recorded Investment, Credit Quality Indicator [Table] Schedule of Financing Receivable, Recorded Investment, Credit Quality Indicator [Table] Consumer Loans Auto Financing Receivable [Member] Credit Quality Indicator [Axis] Credit Quality Indicator [Axis] Financing Receivable, by Credit Quality Indicator [Domain] Financing Receivable, by Credit Quality Indicator [Domain] FICO Scores Less Than 540 [Member] FICO Scores Less Than 540 [Member] FICO Scores Less Than 540 [Member] FICO score 540 to 599 [Member] FICO score 540 to 599 [Member] FICO score 540 to 599 [Member] FICO score 600 to 659 [Member] FICO score 600 to 659 [Member] FICO score 600 to 659 [Member] FICO score 660 and greater [Member] FICO score 660 and greater [Member] FICO score 660 and greater Group I [Member] Group I [Member] Credit quality indicators that are developed and used internally by the company, the first Group. Group II [Member] Group II [Member] Credit quality indicators that are developed and used internally by the company, the second Group. Group III [Member] Group III [Member] Credit quality indicators that are developed and used internally by the company, the third Group. Group IV [Member] Group IV [Member] Credit quality indicators that are developed and used internally by the company, the fourth Group. Group V [Member] Group V [Member] Credit quality indicators that are developed and used internally by the company, the fifth Group. Group VI [Member] Group VI [Member] Credit quality indicators that are developed and used internally by the company, the sixth Group. Financing Receivable, Recorded Investment [Line Items] Financing Receivable, Recorded Investment [Line Items] Finance Receivables, Carrying Value Finance Receivables, Carrying Value Finance receivables carrying amount before the fair value adjustment. Finance Receivables Credit Indicator, Percentage Finance Receivables Credit Indicator, Percentage Carrying amount of finance receivables in a specific credit indicator bucket as percentage of total carrying amount of finance receivables. Segment Reporting [Text Block] Segment Reporting Disclosure [Text Block] Schedule of Property, Plant and Equipment [Table] Property, Plant and Equipment by Type [Axis] Property, Plant and Equipment, Type [Axis] Property, Plant and Equipment, Type [Domain] Property, Plant and Equipment, Type [Domain] Long-lived assets [Member] Long-lived assets [Member] Long-lived assets [Member] Equipment on Operating Leases [Member] Assets Leased to Others [Member] Depreciation, Amortization and Impairment Charges [Line Items] Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items] Depreciation and amortization Depreciation Impairment Charges Tangible Asset Impairment Charges Assets Fair Value, Nonrecurring Assets Fair Value, Nonrecurring This element represents the aggregate of the assets measured at fair value on a nonrecurring basis by the entity during the reporting periods. This element is intended to be used in connection with the fair value disclosures required in the footnote disclosures to the financial statements. Estimated Net Revenue, Fair Value Input Estimated Revenue, Fair Value Input The estimated future revenue used for fair value measurment for equipment on operating leases. Estimated Costs, Fair Value Input Estimated Cost, Fair Value Input The estimated future cost used in fair value measurment for equipment on operating leases.