Level 4- Restricted Cash and Marketable Securities [Abstract] Level 4- Restricted Cash and Marketable Securities [Abstract] Restricted Cash and Marketable Securities [Text Block] Restricted Cash and Marketable Securities [Text Block] The entire disclosure for cash and investments whose use in whole or in part is restricted for current and non-current assets, generally by contractual agreements or regulatory requirements. Equity in Net Assets of Nonconsolidated Affiliates [Abstract] Equity in Net Assets of Nonconsolidated Affiliates [Abstract] Statement [Table] Statement [Table] Class of Stock [Axis] Class of Stock [Axis] Class of Stock [Domain] Class of Stock [Domain] Common Stock [Member] Common Stock [Member] Preferred Stock [Member] Preferred Stock [Member] Statement [Line Items] Statement [Line Items] carrying amount of investment in Ally Financial common stock Carrying amount of investment in investee common stock Carrying amount of investment in investee common stock UST capital contribution to Ally Financial Governement capital contribution to investee Government capital contribution to investee UST conversion of Ally Financial non-convertible preferred stock for mandatory convertible preferred securities Government conversion of investee non-convertible preferred stock for mandatory convertible preferred securities Government conversion of investee non-convertible preferred stock for mandatory convertible preferred securities UST converted mandatory convertible preferred securities into common stock of Ally Financial Government converted mandatory convertible preferred securities into common stock of investee Government converted mandatory convertible preferred securities into common stock of investee Ownership percent of Ally Financial before UST conversions Ownership percent of investee before Government conversions Ownership percent of investee before government conversions Ownership percent of Ally Financial after UST conversion Ownership percent of investee after Government conversion Ownership percent of investee after government conversion Ownership percent of Ally Financial held directly Ownership percent of investee held directly Ownership percent of investee held directly Ownership percent of Ally Financial held indirectly Ownership percent of investee held indirectly Ownership percent of investee held indirectly Maximum percent of our allowed directly held voting and total common equity interests in Ally Financial Maximum percent of directly held voting and total common equity interests in investee allowed Maximum percent of directly held voting and total common equity interests in investee allowed UST conversion of Ally Financial preferred securities Government conversion of investee preferred securities Government conversion of investee preferred securities Shares of Ally Financial common stock the UST received for conversion of Ally FInancial preferred securities Shares of investee common stock the Government received for conversion of investee preferred securities Shares of investee common stock the government received for conversion of investee preferred securities Equity ownership in Ally Financial Total common equity ownership in investee Total common equity ownership in investee Impairment charge on Ally Financial common stock Impairment charge on investee common stock Impairment charge on investee common stock Fair value of Ally Financial common stock Fair value of investee common stock Fair value of investee common stock Proceeds from Sale of Other Investments Proceeds from Sale of Other Investments Ally Financial increase in provision for loan losses Investee increase in provision for loan losses Investee increase in provision for loan losses Fair value amount of investment in Ally Financial common stock Fair value amount of investment in investee common stock Fair value amount of investment in investee common stock Cost-method Investments, Realized Gain (Loss) Cost-method Investments, Realized Gain (Loss) Carrying amount of investment in Ally Financial preferred stock Carrying amount of investment in investee preferred stock Carrying amount of investment in investee preferred stock Fair value amount of investment in Ally Financial preferred stock Fair value amount of investment in investee preferred stock Fair value amount of investment in investee preferred stock Number of shares Old GM purchased of Ally Financial Class B Common Membership Interests Number of shares Predecessor purchased of investee Class B Common Membership Interests Number of shares Predecessor purchased of investee Class B Common Membership Interests UST max conversion under the UST Ally Financial Loan Agreement into Ally Financial Calls B Common Membership Government max conversion under the Loan Agreement into investee Class B Common Membership Government max conversion under the Loan Agreement into investee Class B Common Membership Old GM net gain on extinguishment of debt and disposition of common membership interest Predecessor net gain on extinguishment of debt and disposition of common membership interest Predecessor net gain on extinguishment of debt and disposition of common membership interest Old GM gain on the disposition of Ally Financial Common Membership Interest Predecessor gain on the disposition of investee Common Membership Interest Predecessor gain on the disposition of investee Common Membership Interest Old GM loss on extinguishment of the UST Ally Financial Loan Predecessor loss on extinguishment of the Government Loan to investee Predecessor loss on extinguishment of the government loan to investee Financial Information - Predecessor [Abstract] Financial Information - Predecessor [Abstract] Financial Information - Predecessor [Abstract] Ally Financial Total financing revenue and other interest income Investee total financing revenue and other interest income Investee total financing revenue and other interest income Ally Financial Total interest expense investeeTotal interest expense investee Total interest expense Ally Financial Depreciation expense on operating lease assets Investee Depreciation expense on operating lease assets Investee Depreciation expense on operating lease assets Ally Financial Gain on extinguishment of debt Investee Gain on extinguishment of debt Investee Gain on extinguishment of debt Ally Financial Total other revenue Investee Total other revenue Investee Total other revenue Ally Financial Total noninterest expense Investee Total noninterest expense Investee Total noninterest expense Ally Financial Loss from continuing operations before income tax expense Investee Loss from continuing operations before income tax expense Investee Loss from continuing operations before income tax expense Ally Financial Income tax expense from continuing operations Investee Income tax expense from continuing operations Investee Income tax expense from continuing operations Ally Financial Net income (loss) from continuing operations Investee Net income (loss) from continuing operations Investee Net income (loss) from continuing operations Ally Financial Loss from discontinued operations, net of tax Investee Loss from discontinued operations, net of tax Investee Loss from discontinued operations, net of tax Ally Financial Net income (loss) Investee Net income (loss) Investee Net income (loss) Ally Financial membership interest beginning balance Investee membership interest beginning balance Investee membership interest beginning balance Old GM's proportionate share of Ally Financial's losses Predecessor proportionate share of investee losses Predecessor proportionate share of investee losses Investment in Ally Financial Common Membership Interests Investment in investee Common Membership Interests Investment in investee Common Membership Interests Gain on disposition of Ally Financial Common Membership Interests Gain on disposition of investee Common Membership Interests Gain on disposition of investee Common Membership Interests Conversion of Ally Financial Common Membership Interests Conversion of Investee Common Membership Interests Conversion of Investee Common Membership Interests Ally Financial Other, primarily accumulated other comprehensive loss Investee Other, primarily accumulated other comprehensive loss Investee Other, primarily accumulated other comprehensive loss Ally Financial membership interest ending balance Investee membership interest ending balance Investee membership interest ending balance Finance Receivables, net [Abstract] Finance Receivables, net [Abstract] Financing Receivables [Text Block] Acquisition and Disposal of Businesses - AmeriCredit [Abstract] Acquisition and Disposal of Businesses - AmeriCredit [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] Schedule of Business Acquisition by Acquisition - Strasbourg [Table Text Block] Schedule of Business Acquisition by Acquisition - Strasbourg [Table Text Block] Schedule of Business Acquisition by Acquisition - Strasbourg allocation of purchase price Schedule of Acquisitions, by Acquisition - Delphi [Table Text Block] Schedule of Acquisitions, by Acquisition - Delphi allocation of purchase price to assets and liabilities acquired. Schedule of Business Acquistion, by Acquisition - Nexteer [Table Text Block] Schedule of Business Acquistion, by Acquisition - Nexteer [Table Text Block] Schedule of Business Acquistion, by Acquisition - Nexteer [Table Text Block] Amounts Reclassified from Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) into Earnings Related to Effective Cash Flow Hedging Relationships [Abstract] Amounts Reclassified from Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) into Earnings Related to Effective Cash Flow Hedging Relationships [Abstract] Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss) by Hedging Relationship, by Income Statement Location, by Derivative Instrument Risk [Table] Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss) by Hedging Relationship, by Income Statement Location, by Derivative Instrument Risk [Table] Statement, Business Segments [Axis] Segment [Domain] Automotive [Member] Represents the Automotive section for segment consolidation Derivative Instrument Risk [Axis] Derivative Instrument Risk [Axis] Derivative Contract Type [Domain] Derivative Contract Type [Domain] Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss) by Income Statement Location [Axis] Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss) by Income Statement Location [Axis] Income Statement and Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) Location [Domain] Income Statement and Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) Location [Domain] Sales [Member] Cost of Sales [Member] Reorganization Gains, Net [Member] Reorganization Gains, Net [Member] Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss) by Hedging Relationship [Axis] Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss) by Hedging Relationship [Axis] Hedging Relationship [Domain] Hedging Relationship [Domain] Cash Flow Hedging [Member] Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss) [Line Items] Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss) [Line Items] Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss) Reclassified from Accumulated OCI into Income, Effective Portion, Net Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss) Reclassified from Accumulated OCI into Income, Effective Portion, Net Schedule of Restricted Cash and Cash Equivalents [Table] Schedule of Restricted Cash and Cash Equivalents [Table] Restricted Cash and Cash Equivalents, Cash and Cash Equivalents [Axis] Restricted Cash and Cash Equivalents, Cash and Cash Equivalents [Axis] Restricted Cash and Cash Equivalents, Cash and Cash Equivalents [Domain] Restricted Cash and Cash Equivalents, Cash and Cash Equivalents [Domain] GM Financial [Member] Represents the GM Financial section for segment consolidation. Restricted Cash and Cash Equivalents Items [Line Items] Restricted Cash and Cash Equivalents Items [Line Items] Health Care Trust Fund, Assets Limited as to Use, Current Health Care Trust Fund, Assets Limited as to Use, Current Other Restricted Assets, Current Other Restricted Assets, Current Restricted Cash and Investments, Current Restricted Cash and Investments, Current Collateral for insurance related activities Collateral for insurance related activities Collateral for insurance related activities Other Restricted Assets, Noncurrent Other Restricted Assets, Noncurrent Restricted Cash and Investments, Noncurrent Restricted Cash and Investments, Noncurrent Total restricted cash and investments Total restricted cash and investments Total cash and investments whose use in whole or in part is restricted for current and non-current, generally by contractual agreements or regulatory requirements. Health Care Trust Fund, Assets limited as to use, original amount Trust Fund Assets limited as to use original amount The original amount of the portion of trust fund assets classified as current assets because they are expected to be liquidated to pay current liabilities as of the balance sheet date. Health Care Trust Fund Assets Limited As To Use, funded amount Trust Fund Assets Limited As To Use funded amount Trust Fund Assets limited as to use, funded amount Health Care Trust Fund Assets, remaining funds released Trust Fund Assets remaining funds released Trust Fund Assets, remaining funds released Restricted cash securitization notes payable and credit facilities Restricted cash securitization notes payable and credit facilities Restricted cash securitization notes payable and credit facilities Restricted Cash - Automotive Financing Restricted Cash - Automotive Financing Total Restricted Cash - Automotive Financing Note 19. Derivative Financial Instruments and Risk Management [Abstract] Note 19. Derivative Financial Instruments and Risk Management [Abstract] Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) [Member] Accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Reclassification Adjustment on Derivatives Included in Net Income, Net of Tax Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Reclassification Adjustment on Derivatives Included in Net Income, Net of Tax Note 18. Pensions and Other Postretirement Benefits [Abstract] Note 18. Pensions and Other Postretirement Benefits [Abstract] Schedule of Defined Benefit Plans Disclosures [Table] Schedule of Defined Benefit Plans Disclosures [Table] Defined Benefit Plans and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans Disclosures [Axis] Defined Benefit Plans and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans Disclosures [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] Defined Benefit Plan, Fair Value of Plan Assets by Measurement [Axis] Defined Benefit Plan, Fair Value of Plan Assets by Measurement [Axis] Fair Value Plan Asset Measurement [Domain] Fair Value Plan Asset Measurement [Domain] Fair Value, Inputs, Level 1 [Member] Fair Value, Inputs, Level 2 [Member] Fair Value, Inputs, Level 3 [Member] Defined Benefit Plan by Plan Asset Categories [Axis] Defined Benefit Plan by Plan Asset Categories [Axis] Plan Asset Categories [Domain] Plan Asset Categories [Domain] Cash equivalents and other short-term investments [Member] Cash and Cash Equivalents [Member] Common and preferred stocks Equity Securities [Member] US Treasury and Government [Member] US Treasury and Government [Member] Corporate Debt Securities [Member] Agency mortgage and asset-backed securities [Member] Mortgage-backed Securities, Issued by US Government Sponsored Enterprises [Member] Non-agency mortgage and asset-backed securities [Member] Mortgage-backed Securities, Issued by Private Enterprises [Member] Group annuity contracts [Member] Group annuity contracts [Member] A contract or policy issued by an insurance company that is supported by separately managed investment accounts which hold high quality fixed income securities. Equity funds [Member] Equity Funds [Member] Fixed income funds [Member] Fixed Income Funds [Member] Funds of hedge funds [Member] Funds of Hedge Funds [Member] Investment in funds that primarily invest in a portfolio of alternative investment funds. Global macro funds [Member] Hedge Funds, Global Macro [Member] Investment in funds that primarily invest in macro economic events through leveraged transaction utilizing a variety of equity, fixed income, and derivative instruments. Multi-strategy funds [Member] Hedge Funds, Multi-strategy [Member] Other investment funds Other Investment Funds [Member] Funds that employ broad-ranging strategies and styles such as event-driven or relative value. Private equity and debt investments [Member] Private Equity Funds [Member] Real estate assets [Member] Real Estate Assets [Member] Investments in core and opportunistic income producing real estate properties such as apartments, industrial, office and retail buildings, hotels, senior living and self storage facilities. Also, includes investments in energy, infastructure, natural resources, real estate mezzanine loans and real estate investment trusts. Other investments [Member] Other pension investments [Member] Other pension investments. Total assets [Member] Assets, Total [Member] Common and preferred stocks [Member] Equity securities sold short [Member] Investment liability for common and preferred stock securities sold short. Agency mortgage and asset-backed securities sold short Agency mortgage and asset-backed securities sold short [Member] Agency mortgage and asset-backed securities sold short [Member] Corporate debt securities [Member] Debt Securities Sold Short [Member] Investment liability for debt securities sold short. Real estate assets Real Estate Securities Sold Short [Member] Investment liability for real estate securities sold short. Interest rate contract [Member] Interest Rate Contract [Member] Foreign Exchange Contract [Member] Foreign Exchange Contract [Member] Equity contracts [Member] Equity Contract [Member] Credit contracts [Member] Credit Risk Contract [Member] Total liabilities [Member] Liabilities, Total [Member] Net plan assets subject to leveling Net Plan Assets Subject to Leveling [Member] Net plan assets subject to leveling [Member] Other plan assets and liabilities Other plan assets and liabilities [Member] Other plan assets and liabilities including cash held by the plans and miscellaneous payables. Derivatives, Fair Value, by Balance Sheet Location [Axis] Balance Sheet Location [Domain] Other Assets Other Assets [Member] Other Liabilities Other Liabilities [Member] Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items] Fair Value, Measurement with Unobservable Inputs Reconciliation, Recurring Basis, Asset Value Fair Value, Measurement with Unobservable Inputs Reconciliation, Recurring Basis, Asset Value Defined Benefit Plan, Fair Value of Plan Assets Defined Benefit Plan, Fair Value of Plan Assets General Motors Common Stock Warrant For Common Stock Warrant For Common Stock Net Realized / Unrealized Gains (Loss) Net Realized / Unrealized Gains (Loss) Net Realized / Unrealized Gains (Loss) Goodwill [Abstract] Goodwill [Abstract] Goodwill Disclosure [Text Block] Goodwill Disclosure [Text Block] Significant Accounting Policies [Abstract] Significant Accounting Policies [Abstract] Revenue Recognition, Policy [Policy Text Block] Revenue Recognition, Policy [Policy Text Block] Advertising Costs, Policy [Policy Text Block] Advertising Costs, Policy [Policy Text Block] Research and Development Expense, Policy [Policy Text Block] Research and Development Expense, Policy [Policy Text Block] Cash and Cash Equivalents, Policy [Policy Text Block] Cash and Cash Equivalents, Policy [Policy Text Block] Marketable Securities, Policy [Policy Text Block] Marketable Securities, Policy [Policy Text Block] Finance, Loans and Leases Receivable, Policy [Policy Text Block] Finance, Loans and Leases Receivable, Policy [Policy Text Block] Inventory, Policy [Policy Text Block] Inventory, Policy [Policy Text Block] Lease, Policy [Policy Text Block] Lease, Policy [Policy Text Block] Equity and Cost Method Investments, Policy [Policy Text Block] Equity and Cost Method Investments, Policy [Policy Text Block] Property, Plant and Equipment, Policy [Policy Text Block] Property, Plant and Equipment, Policy [Policy Text Block] Goodwill and Intangible Assets, Policy [Policy Text Block] Goodwill and Intangible Assets, Policy [Policy Text Block] Impairment or Disposal of Long-Lived Assets, Policy [Policy Text Block] Impairment or Disposal of Long-Lived Assets, Policy [Policy Text Block] Pension and Other Postretirement Plans, Pensions, Policy [Policy Text Block] Pension and Other Postretirement Plans, Pensions, Policy [Policy Text Block] Share-based Compensation, Option and Incentive Plans Policy [Policy Text Block] Share-based Compensation, Option and Incentive Plans Policy [Policy Text Block] Standard Product Warranty, Policy [Policy Text Block] Standard Product Warranty, Policy [Policy Text Block] Income Tax, Policy [Policy Text Block] Income Tax, Policy [Policy Text Block] Fair Value of Financial Instruments, Policy [Policy Text Block] Fair Value of Financial Instruments, Policy [Policy Text Block] Derivatives, Policy [Policy Text Block] Derivatives, Policy [Policy Text Block] Foreign Currency Transactions and Translations Policy [Policy Text Block] Foreign Currency Transactions and Translations Policy [Policy Text Block] Property, net [Abstract] Property, net [Abstract] Property, Plant and Equipment Disclosure [Text Block] Property, Plant and Equipment Disclosure [Text Block] Note 5. Finance Receivables, net [Abstract] Note 5. Finance Receivables, net [Abstract] Schedule of Accounts, Notes, Loans and Financing Receivable [Table] Schedule of Accounts, Notes, Loans and Financing Receivable [Table] Statement, Business Segments [Axis] Segment [Domain] GM Financial [Member] Accounts, Notes, Loans and Financing Receivable [Line Items] Accounts, Notes, Loans and Financing Receivable [Line Items] Financing Receivable, Recorded Investment, Nonaccrual Status Financing Receivable, Recorded Investment, Nonaccrual Status Certain Loans Acquired in Transfer Not Accounted for as Debt Securities, Accretable Yield, Reclassifications from Nonaccretable Difference Certain Loans Acquired in Transfer Not Accounted for as Debt Securities, Accretable Yield, Reclassifications from Nonaccretable Difference Earnings Per Share [Abstract] Earnings Per Share [Text Block] Earnings Per Share [Text Block] Plan Contributions [Abstract] Plan Contributions [Abstract] Schedule of pension contributions to the defined benefit pension plans [Table Text Block] Schedule of pension contributions to the defined benefit pension plans [Table Text Block] Summarizes pension contributions to the defined benefit pension plans or direct payments to plan beneficiaries [Table Text Block] Contributions to the U.S. OPEB Plans [Table Text Block] Contributions to the U.S. OPEB Plans [Table Text Block] Contributions to the U.S. OPEB Plans [Table Text Block] Contributions to defined contribution plans [Table Text Block] Contributions to defined contribution plans [Table Text Block] Contributions to defined contribution plans [Table Text Block] Pension and OPEB Obligations and Plan Assets [Table Text Block] Pension and OPEB Obligations and Plan Assets [Table Text Block] Rollforward of Pension and OPEB Obligations; Rollforward of Plan Assets;Amounts recorded in the balance sheet; Amounts recorded in AOCI. Schedule of Accumulated Benefit Obligations in Excess of Fair Value of Plan Assets [Table Text Block] Schedule of Accumulated Benefit Obligations in Excess of Fair Value of Plan Assets [Table Text Block] Components of Net Periodic Pension and OPEB Expense with Assumptions [Table Text Block] Components of Net Periodic Pension and OPEB Expense with Assumptions [Table Text Block] Components of Net Periodic Pension and OPEB Expense with Assumptions Schedule of Health Care Cost Trend Rates [Table Text Block] Schedule of Health Care Cost Trend Rates [Table Text Block] Schedule of Effect of One-Percentage-Point Change in Assumed Health Care Cost Trend Rates [Table Text Block] Schedule of Effect of One-Percentage-Point Change in Assumed Health Care Cost Trend Rates [Table Text Block] Target Allocations by Asset Category [Table Text Block] Target Allocations by Asset Category [Table Text Block] Target Allocations by Asset Category [Table Text Block] Schedule of Allocation of Plan Assets [Table Text Block] Schedule of Allocation of Plan Assets [Table Text Block] Schedules of U.S. and Non-US Pension Rollforward [Table Text Block] Schedules of U.S. and Non-US Pension Rollforward [Table Text Block] Schedules of U.S. and Non-US Pension Rollforward [Table Text Block] Schedule of Expected Benefit Payments [Table Text Block] Schedule of Expected Benefit Payments [Table Text Block] Interest Expense [Abstract] Schedule of Interest [Table] Schedule of Interest [Table] Schedule of Interest [Table] Long-term Debt, Type [Axis] Long-term Debt, Type [Axis] Long-term Debt, Type [Domain] Long-term Debt, Type [Domain] Canadian Loan Agreement [Member] Canadian Loan Agreement [Member] Amounts relating to the Canadian Loan debt obligation. VEBA Notes [Member] VEBA Notes [Member] Represents notes payable issued to the UAW VEBA. Short-term Debt, Type [Axis] Short-term Debt, Type [Domain] US Treasury Loan [Member] Amounts relating to US Treasury Loan Agreement debt obligation. Total [Member] Total [Member] Represents Total GM for segment consolidation. Debt Instrument [Axis] Debt Instrument, Name [Domain] Convertible Debt [Member] Investee [Member] Investee [Member] Debt, Other [Member] Amounts related to debt obligations which are not otherwise defined in the taxonomy. Bridge Loan [Member] Other Debt Obligations [Member] Interest Expense Interest Expense Pre-Acquisition Finance Receivables, Carrying Value beginning balance Pre-Acquisition Finance Receivables, Carrying Value Pre-Acquisition Finance Receivables, Carrying Value Post-Acquisition Finance Receivables, Carrying Value beginning balance Post-Acquisition Finance Receivables, Carrying Value Post-Acquisition Finance Receivables, Carrying Value Finance Receivables Purchased Finance Receivables Purchased Finance Receivables Purchased during the period Charge-offs Financing Receivable, Allowance for Credit Losses, Charge-offs Principal Collection and Recoveries on Receivables Principal Collection and Recoveries on Receivables The cash inflow associated with the proceeds from collection of receivables during the period. Change in Carrying Value Adjustment Change in Carrying Value Adjustment Change in Carrying Value Adjustment Finance Receivables, Carrying Value Finance Receivables, Carrying Value Finance Receivables, Carrying Value Valuation and Qualifying Accounts [Abstract] Schedule of Valuation and Qualifying Accounts Disclosure [Text Block] Schedule of Valuation and Qualifying Accounts Disclosure [Text Block] Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities Disclosure [Abstract] Derivative Financial Instruments And Risk Management Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities Disclosure [Text Block] Income Taxes [Abstract] Income Taxes [Abstract] Income Tax Reconciliation, Income Tax Expense (Benefit), at Federal Statutory Income Tax Rate Income Tax Reconciliation, Income Tax Expense (Benefit), at Federal Statutory Income Tax Rate Current Federal Tax Expense (Benefit) Current Federal Tax Expense (Benefit) Income (Loss) from Continuing Operations before Income Taxes, Domestic Income (Loss) from Continuing Operations before Income Taxes, Domestic Income (Loss) from Continuing Operations before Income Taxes, Foreign Income (Loss) from Continuing Operations before Income Taxes, Foreign Income (loss) before income taxes and equity income Income (Loss) from Continuing Operations before Equity Method Investments, Income Taxes, Extraordinary Items, Noncontrolling Interest Current Foreign Tax Expense (Benefit) Current Foreign Tax Expense (Benefit) Current State and Local Tax Expense (Benefit) Current State and Local Tax Expense (Benefit) Current Income Tax Expense (Benefit) Current Income Tax Expense (Benefit) Deferred Federal Income Tax Expense (Benefit) Deferred Federal Income Tax Expense (Benefit) Deferred Foreign Income Tax Expense (Benefit) Deferred Foreign Income Tax Expense (Benefit) Deferred State and Local Income Tax Expense (Benefit) Deferred State and Local Income Tax Expense (Benefit) Deferred Income Tax Expense (Benefit) Deferred Income Tax Expense (Benefit) Income Tax Expense (Benefit), Continuing Operations Income Tax Expense (Benefit), Continuing Operations Deferred Tax Liability Not Recognized, Amount of Unrecognized Deferred Tax Liability Deferred Tax Liability Not Recognized, Amount of Unrecognized Deferred Tax Liability Income Tax Reconciliation, State and Local Income Taxes Income Tax Reconciliation, State and Local Income Taxes IncomeTaxReconciliationForeignIncomeTaxRateDifferentialnetof FTC IncomeTaxReconciliationForeignIncomeTaxRateDifferentialnetof FTC May include: -The portion of the difference, between total income tax expense or benefit as reported in the Income Statement for the period and the expected income tax expense or benefit computed by applying the domestic federal statutory income tax rates to pretax income from continuing operations, that is attributable to total foreign income tax expense or benefit. The foreign income tax expense or benefit difference represents the income tax expense or benefit at applicable domestic statutory income tax rates applied to foreign earnings or loss for the period versus the foreign income tax expense or benefit calculated by applying the appropriate foreign tax rates. -The portion of the difference between the effective income tax rate and domestic federal statutory income tax rate that can be explained by foreign tax credits generated or utilized under enacted tax laws during the period. -The sum of income tax expense or benefit for the period that has been allocated among continuing operations, discontinued operations, extraordinary items, other comprehensive income, and items charged or credited directly to shareholders' equity. -The portion of the difference between total income tax expense or benefit as reported in the Income Statement for the period and the expected income tax expense or benefit computed by applying the domestic federal statutory income tax rates to pretax income from continuing operations attributable to nondeductible expenses under enacted tax laws, or differences in the methodologies used to determine expense amounts for financial statements prepared in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles, for non-US entities not otherwise listed in the existing taxonomy. Income Tax Reconciliation, Repatriation of Foreign Earnings Income Tax Reconciliation, Repatriation of Foreign Earnings Income Tax Reconciliation, Change in Deferred Tax Assets Valuation Allowance Income Tax Reconciliation, Change in Deferred Tax Assets Valuation Allowance Income Tax Reconciliation, Change in Enacted Tax Rate Income Tax Reconciliation, Change in Enacted Tax Rate IncomeTaxReconciliationResearchAndDevelopmentIncentives IncomeTaxReconciliationResearchAndDevelopmentIncentives May include: -The portion of the difference between the effective income tax rate and domestic federal statutory income tax rate attributable to nondeductible research and development expenses, including expenses associated with in-process research and development activities, under enacted tax laws. -The sum of the differences between the effective income tax rate and domestic federal statutory income tax rate that can be explained by general business credits generated or utilized under enacted tax laws during the period. Gain On Sale Of Domestic Supplier Gain On Sale Of Domestic Supplier The portion of the difference between total income tax expense or benefit as reported in the Income Statement for the period and the expected income tax expense or benefit computed by applying the domestic federal statutory income tax rates to pretax income from continuing operations attributable to nondeductible expenses under enacted tax laws, for the disposition of a domestic supplier. Income Tax Reconciliation, Nondeductible Expense, Impairment Losses Income Tax Reconciliation, Nondeductible Expense, Impairment Losses Income Tax Reconciliation, Tax Settlements Income Tax Reconciliation, Tax Settlements IncomeTaxReconciliationVEBAContribution IncomeTaxReconciliationVEBAContribution The portion of the difference between total income tax expense or benefit as reported in the Income Statement for the period and the expected income tax expense or benefit computed by applying the domestic federal statutory income tax rates to pretax income from continuing operations attributable to nondeductible expenses under enacted tax laws, or differences in the methodologies used to determine expense amounts for financial statements prepared in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles, for voluntary employees' beneficiary association (VEBA) contributions. Income Tax Reconciliation, Nondeductible Expense, Restructuring Charges Income Tax Reconciliation, Nondeductible Expense, Restructuring Charges IncomeTaxReconciliationForeignCurrencyRemeasurement IncomeTaxReconciliationForeignCurrencyRemeasurement The portion of the difference between total income tax expense or benefit as reported in the Income Statement for the period and the expected income tax expense or benefit computed by applying the domestic federal statutory income tax rates to pretax income from continuing operations attributable to nondeductible expenses under enacted tax laws, or differences in the methodologies used to determine expense amounts for financial statements prepared in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles, for subsidiaries that use the U.S. dollar as their functional currency remeasure monetary assets and liabilities at exchange rates in effect at the end of each period, and inventories, property, and nonmonetary assets and liabilities at historical rates. Income Tax Reconciliation Pensions Income Tax Reconciliation Pensions Income Tax Reconciliation Pensions contribution permanent difference Income Tax Reconciliation, Other Adjustments Income Tax Reconciliation, Other Adjustments Statement of Cash Flows [Abstract] Statement, Scenario [Axis] Statement, Scenario [Axis] Scenario, Unspecified [Domain] Scenario, Unspecified [Domain] Successor [Member] Successor [Member] Predecessor [Member] Predecessor [Member] Segment, Business [Domain] Automotive [Member] Cash flows from operating activities Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Operating Activities [Abstract] Net income (loss) Net Income (Loss), Including Portion Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest Less: GM Financial income, net GM Financial income (loss) The GM Financial profit or loss for the period, net of income taxes, including the portion attributable to the noncontrolling interest. Adjustments to Reconcile Net Income (Loss) to Cash Provided by (Used in) Operating Activities Adjustments to Reconcile Net Income (Loss) to Cash Provided by (Used in) Operating Activities Adjustments to reconcile net income (loss) to net cash provided by (used in) operating activities [Abstract] Adjustments to reconcile net income (loss) to net cash provided by (used in) operating activities [Abstract] Adjustments to reconcile net income (loss) to net cash provided by (used in) operating activities [Abstract] Depreciation, impairment charges and amortization expense Depreciation, impairment charges and amortization expense The amount of expense recognized in the current period that reflects the allocation of the cost of tangible assets and finite-lived intangible assets over the assets' useful lives, as well as impairment charges on tangible and intangible assets. Includes production and non-production related depreciation and amortization. Foreign currency remeasurement and transaction loss Foreign currency translation and transaction (gain) loss The aggregate unrealized foreign currency transaction gain (loss) (pretax) or remeasurement gain (loss) (pretax) included in determining net income for the reporting period. Represents the aggregate of gains (losses) on foreign currency transactions that are unsettled as of the balance sheet date, which is therefore an adjustment to reconcile income (loss) from continuing operations to net cash provided by or used in continuing operations. Also includes the gains (losses) associated with remeasuring foreign currency denominated entities into the functional currency of those entities. Excludes foreign currency transactions designated as hedges of net investment in a foreign entity and intercompany foreign currency transactions that are of a long-term nature, when the entities to the transaction are consolidated, combined, or accounted for by the equity method in the reporting entity's financial statements. For certain entities, primarily banks, that are dealers in foreign exchange, foreign currency transaction gains (losses) may be disclosed as dealer gains (losses). Amortization of discount and issuance costs on debt issues Amortization of Financing Costs and Discounts (Gain) loss related to Saab deconsolidation and bankruptcy filing Deconsolidation, Gain (Loss), Amount Undistributed (earnings) losses of nonconsolidated affiliates and gain on disposal of investments Income (Loss) And Gain On Disposition From Equity Method Investments Net Of Dividends Or Distributions This element represents the undistributed income (or loss) and gains on disposition of investments in equity method investments, net of dividends or other distributions received from unconsolidated subsidiaries, certain corporate joint ventures and certain noncontrolled corporations; such investments are accounted for under the equity method of accounting. This element excludes distributions that constitute a return of investment, which are classified as investing activities. Pension contributions and OPEB payments Pension and Other Postretirement Benefit Contributions Pension and OPEB (income) expense, net Pension and Other Postretirement Benefit Expense Withdrawals (contributions) from/to VEBA Withdrawals (contributions) from/to VEBA The amount of cash or cash equivalents contributed during the reporting period by the entity to fund the VEBA and the withdrawals from the VEBA during the reporting period by the entity. (Gain) loss on extinguishment of debt Gains (Losses) on Extinguishment of Debt Gain on disposition of Ally Financial Common Membership Interests Gain on Sale of Investments Reorganization gains, net (including cash payments $408) Reorganization Non-Cash Gains Net The amount of the non-cash gain recorded associated with the bankruptcy proceedings and 363 sales transaction during the reporting period. Provisions (benefits) for deferred taxes Change in other investments and miscellaneous assets Change in other investments and miscellaneous assets The increase (decrease) during the reporting period in the aggregate amount of other investments and miscellaneous assets. Increase (decrease) in other operating assets and liabilities Increase (Decrease) in Other Operating Assets and Liabilities, Net Other Other Operating Activities, Cash Flow Statement Net cash provided by (used in) operating activities Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Operating Activities Cash flows from investing activities 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 other than cash acquired with GM Financial Payments to Acquire Businesses, Net of Cash Acquired Increase due to consolidation of business units Increase due to consolidation of business units Increase in cash and cash equivalents resulting from the consolidation of certain business units. Distributions from (investments in) Ally Financial Distributions from (investments in) Ally Financial Cash distributions from and cash investments in Ally Financial. Operating leases, liquidations Proceeds from Leases Held-for-investment Proceeds from sale of business units/investments, net 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 Other investing activities Payments for (Proceeds from) Other Investing Activities Purchases of receivables Payments to Acquire Receivables Principal collections and recoveries on receivables Principal Collections And Recoveries On Receivables The cash inflow associated with the proceeds from collection of receivables during the period. Purchases of leased vehicles Payments to Acquire Equipment on Lease Net cash provided by (used in) investing activities Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Investing Activities GM Financial cash on hand at acquisition GM Financial cash on hand at acquisition Amount of cash on hand at acquisition of GM Financial. Cash flows from financing activities 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 Proceeds from issuance of stock Proceeds from Issuance of Preferred Stock and Preference Stock Payments to repurchase stock Payments for Repurchase of Preferred Stock and Preference Stock Cash, cash equivalents and restricted cash retained by MLC Cash, cash equivalents and restricted cash retained by MLC Amount of cash, cash equivalents and restricted cash retained by MLC. Payments to acquire noncontrolling interest Payments to Acquire Additional Interest in Subsidiaries Debt issuance costs and fees paid for debt modification Payments of Debt Issuance Costs Cash dividends paid (including premium paid on redemption of stock) Payments of Capital Distribution 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 transactions between members Net Transactions Net transactions between members Net increase (decrease) in cash and cash equivalents Cash and Cash Equivalents, Period Increase (Decrease) Cash and cash equivalents reclassified as assets held for sale-Automotive Cash and cash equivalents reclassified (to) from assets held for sale Represents cash and cash equivalents reclassified as held for sale. Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of period Cash and Cash Equivalents, at Carrying Value Cash and cash equivalents at end of period Other Automotive Expenses, net [Abstract] Other Automotive Expenses, net [Abstract] Other Automotive Expenses [Text Block] Diclosure of total other automotive expense, net for the period. Short-Term and Long-Term Debt [Abstract] Short-Term and Long-Term Debt [Abstract] Automotive Financing Debt [Table] Automotive Financing Debt [Table] Automotive Financing Debt [Table] Fair Value by Measurement Basis [Axis] Fair Value, Disclosure Item Amounts [Domain] Carrying (Reported) Amount, Fair Value Disclosure [Member] Estimate of Fair Value, Fair Value Disclosure [Member] Automotive Financing [Line Items] Automotive Financing [Line Items] Medium-term note facility Medium-term note facility Borrowings under the Medium-term note facility Syndicated warehouse facility Syndicated warehouse facility Borrowings under the Syndicated warehouse facility Lease Funding Facilities Lease Funding Facilities Amounts due under the Lease Funding Facilities Bank funding facilities Bank funding facilities Borrowings under the Bank funding facilities Line of Credit Facility, Amount Outstanding Line of Credit Facility, Amount Outstanding Secured Debt Secured Debt Senior Notes and Convertible Senior Notes Senior Notes and Convertible Senior Notes The amount outstanding at the balance sheet date related to Senior Notes and Convertible Senior Notes Total Automotive Financing Debt Total Automotive Financing Debt Total Automotive Financing Debt Basis of Presentation [Abstract] Basis of Presentation [Abstract] Stockholders’ Equity (Deficit) and Noncontrolling Interests [Abstract] Stockholders’ Equity (Deficit) and Noncontrolling Interests [Abstract] Schedule of Preferred Stock by class Schedule of Stock by Class [Table] first traunche of warrants held by predecessor [Member] first traunche of warrants held by predecessor [Member] first traunche of warrants held by predecessor [Member] Second traunche of warrants held by predecessor [Member] Second traunche of warrants held by predecessor [Member] Second traunche of warrants held by predecessor [Member] Series A Preferred Stock [Member] Series A Preferred Stock [Member] Series B Preferred Stock [Member] Series B Preferred Stock [Member] Schedule Of Other Comprehensive Income Loss [Axis] Schedule Of Other Comprehensive Income Loss Axis. Schedule Of Other Comprehensive Income Loss [Domain] Schedule Of Other Comprehensive Income Loss. PreTaxAmount [Member] Represents the Pre-Tax amount of other comprehensive income components. Tax Expense Benefit [Member] Represents the Tax Expense (Benefit) amount of other comprehensive income components. Net Amount [Member] Represents the net amount of other comprehensive income components. Consolidated [Abstract] Preferred Stock, Liquidation Preference Per Share Preferred Stock, Liquidation Preference Per Share The per share liquidation amount of nonredeemable preferred stock (or preferred stock redeemable solely at the option of the issuer) that has a preference in liquidation or redemption at option of the company. Dividend Rate Per Annum Preferred Stock, Dividend Rate, Percentage Dividends Paid Payments of Dividends, Preferred Stock and Preference Stock Series A Preferred Stock Narrative [Abstract] Series A Preferred Stock Narrative. Series ARedemption Date Series ARedemption Date The date upon which Series A Preferred Stock may be redeemed, in whole or in part, for cash at a price per share equal to the liquidation amount, plus any accrued and unpaid dividends. Series A Total Redemption Of Purchased Amount Series A Total Redemption Of Purchased Amount at par value Represents the amount if all the Series A preferred stock were to be redeemed or purchased at its par value. Number of Shares Purchased Held By UST Number of Shares Purchased Held By the Government Number of Shares Purchased Held By the Government. Percent Of Liquidation Amount Percent Of Liquidation Amount Percent Of Liquidation Amount of shares held by UST. Amount Of Shares Purchased Held By UST Purchase Amount Of Shares Purchased Held By the Government Represent the total amount paid for the Series A shares puchased from the Government Charge Recorded In Cummulative Dividends Preferred Stock Dividends and Other Adjustments Series B Preferred Stock Narrative [Abstract] Series B Preferred Stock Narrative. Series B Conversion Date Series B Conversion Date The date upon which Series B Preferred Stock will automatically convert into a number of shares of our common stock. Commen Stock Trading Days Commen Stock Trading Days Number of common stock trading days used in the calculation of the average closing price of the common stock Convertible Preferred Stock, Shares Issued upon Conversion Convertible Preferred Stock, Shares Issued upon Conversion Price range of common stock Price range of common stock Represents the price range of common stock during conversion that the holder will receive a variable number of shares of common stock with a value equal to the security's liquidation value of $50 per share plus accumulated dividends on Series B Preferred Stock. Market Value of Common Stock Lower Range Market Value of Common Stock Lower Range Represents the market value of our common stock lower end of the range related to our mandatory conversation of Series B Preferred Stock. Market Value of Common Stock Upper Range Market Value of Common Stock Upper Range Upper range in the market value of our common stock related to the mandatory conversion of our Series B Preferred Stock. Common Stock [Abstract] Common Stock [Abstract] Common Stock. Stock issued during period, shares, employee benefit stock issued during period, shares, employee benefit shares issued during period to an employee benefit plan, such as a defined benefit plan Number Of Shares Issued For Exercised Warrants During The Period Number Of Shares Issued For Exercised Warrants During The Period Number Of Shares Issued For Exercised Warrants During The Period. Number Of Shares Issued For The Settlement Of Salary And Restricted Stock Awards. Number Of Shares Issued For The Settlement Of Salary And Restricted Stock Awards. Number Of Shares Issued For The Settlement Of Salary And Restricted Stock Awards. Number Of Restricted Common Stock Issued Number Of Restricted Common Stock Issued Number Of Restricted Stock Awards Issued. Warrants Narrative [Abstract] Warrants Narrative. Tranche of warrants issued to MLC Number Of Warrants Issued To Predecessor Related to 363 Sale Number Of Warrants Issued To Predecessor Related to 363 Sale. Class of Warrant or Right, Number of Securities Called by Warrants or Rights Class of Warrant or Right, Number of Securities Called by Warrants or Rights Tranche of warrants issued to New VEBA Warrant Issued Related To Benefit Trust Number Of Warrant Issued Related To Benefit Trust. New Veba Class Of Warrant Or Right Number Of Securities Called By Warrants Or Rights Benefit Trust Class Of Warrant Or Right Number Of Securities Called By Warrants Or Rights The specified number of securities that each class of warrants or rights outstanding give the holder the right but not the obligation to purchase from the issuer at a specific price, on or before a certain date related to a benefit trust in connection to the 363 Sale. Warrant expiration date Investment Warrants Expiration Date Exercise Price of Warrants or Rights Class of Warrant or Right, Exercise Price of Warrants or Rights MLC Second Warrant Exercise Price MLC Second Warrant Exercise Price Represents MLC Second Warrant Exercise Price. New Veba Warrant Exercise Price Benefit Trust Warrant Exercise Price Represents Benefit Trust warrant exercise price. Class of Warrant or Right, Outstanding Class of Warrant or Right, Outstanding Noncontrolling Interests Narrative [Abstract] Noncontrolling Interests Narrative. Payments to Acquire Additional Interest in Subsidiaries Prior Ownership Interest In GM Korea Prior Ownership Interest In Subsidiary Prior Ownership Interest In Subsidiary. Ownership interest in GM Korea Noncontrolling Interest, Ownership Percentage by Parent Additional percentage in GM Korea Business Acquisition, Percentage of Voting Interests Acquired Ownership percentage in GM Korea Subsidiary or Equity Method Investee, Cumulative Percentage Ownership after All Transactions Acquisition Cost Of Noncontrolling Interests In CAMI Acquisition Cost Of Noncontrolling Interests In Joint Venture Acquistion Cost Of Noncontrolling Interests In Joint Venture. Prior Ownership Percentage In CAMI Prior Ownership Percentage In Joint Venture Prior Ownership Percentage In Joint Venture. Ownership in CAMI Ownership In Joint Venture Ownership In Joint Venture. Net income (loss) attributable to common stockholders Net Income (Loss) Available to Common Stockholders, Basic Increase in capital surplus resulting from GM Korea equity rights offering Increase In Capital Surplus Resulting From Subsidiary Increase in capital surplus resulting from Subsidiary. Increase in capital surplus resuting from acquisition of additional interest in GM Korea Increase In Capital Surplus Resuting From Acquisition Of Additional Interest in Subsidiary Increase In Capital Surplus Resuting From Acquisition Of Additional Interest in Subsidiary. Changes from net (income) loss attributable to common stockholderes and transfers from (to) noncontrolling interests related to GM Korea Changes From Net Loss Attributable To Common Stockholderes And Transfers From (To) Noncontrolling Interests Related To Subsidiary Changes From Net Loss Attributable To Common Stockholderes And Transfers From (To) Noncontrolling Interests Related To Subsidiary Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax [Abstract] Foreign currency translation gain Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Foreign Currency Translation Adjustment, Net of Tax Cash flow hedging gains (losses), net Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Cumulative Changes in Net Gain (Loss) from Cash Flow Hedges, Effect Net of Tax Net unrealized gain (loss) on securities Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Available-for-sale Securities Adjustment, Net of Tax Defined benefit plans, net Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Pension and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans, Net of Tax Accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) [Abstract] Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) [Abstract] Other Comprehensive Income (Loss). Foreign currency translation gain Foreign Currency Translation Gain Loss During Period Represents the foreign currency translation gain (loss) 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. Cash flow hedging gains (losses), net Cash Flow Hedging Gains Losses Net During Period Represents the gains and losses from derivative instruments designated and qualifying as the effective portion of cash flow hedges. Includes an entity's share of an equity investee's Increase or Decrease in deferred hedging gains or losses. Unrealized gain (loss) on securities Unrealized Gain Loss On Securities During Period Represents the appreciation or loss in value of the total of available-for-sale securities. Defined benefit plans [Abstract] Defined Benefit Plans [Abstract] Defined Benefit Plans. Prior service benefit from plan amendments Prior Service Benefit Cost From Plan Amendments During Period Represents the prior service benefit cost from plan amendments during the period. Less: amortization of prior service cost included in net periodic benefit cost Amortization Of Prior Service Cost Included In Net Periodic Benefit CostDuringPeriod Represents the amortization of prior service cost included in net periodic benefit cost during the period. Net prior service benefit (cost) Net Prior Service Benefit Costs Credit During Period Represents the (cost) credit resulting from a plan amendment that grants (increased) decreased benefits based on service rendered in prior periods. It also represents the adjustment to other comprehensive income for prior service costs recognized as a component of net period benefit cost during the period. Actuarial gain (loss) from plan measurements Actuarial Gain Loss From Plan Measurements During Period Represents the actuarial gain (loss) from plan measurements during the period. Less: amortization of actuarial loss included in net periodic benefit cost (a) Amortization Of Actuarial Gain Loss Included In Net Periodic Benefit CostDuringPeriod Represents the amortization of actuarial gain (loss) included in net periodic benefit cost during the period. Net actuarial amounts Net Actuarial Gain Loss During Period Represents the accumulated change in the value of either the projected benefit obligation or the plan assets resulting from experience different from that assumed or from a change in an actuarial assumption that has not been recognized in net periodic benefit cost. It also represents the adjustment to other comprehensive income for actuarial gains or losses recognized as a component of net periodic benefit cost during the period. Net transition assets from plan initiations Net Transition Assets From Plan Initiations During Period Represents the net transition assets from plan initiations during the period. Less: amortization of transition asset/obligation included in net periodic benefit cost Amortization Of Transition Asset Obligation Included In Net Periodic Benefit Cost During Period Represents the amortization of transition asset/obligation included in net periodic benefit cost during the period. Net transition amounts Net Transition Amounts During Period Represents the net transition amounts during the period. Defined benefit plans, net Defined Benefit Plans Net Represents the activity 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. Sale of interest in nonconsolidated affiliate OtherComprehensiveIncomeSaleOfInterestInNonconsolidatedAffiliate The increase (decrease) to accumulated comprehensive income during the period related to sales of interest in non-consolidated affiliate. Other comprehensive income (loss) Other Comprehensive Income Loss Period Increase Decrease This element represents Other Comprehensive Income or Loss for the period, including both controlling (parent) and noncontrolling interests. Includes deferred gains or losses on qualifying hedges, unrealized holding gains or losses on available-for-sale securities, minimum pension liability, and cumulative translation adjustment. Less: other comprehensive loss attributable to noncontrolling interests Other Comprehensive Income Loss Attributable To Noncontrolling InterestsPeriodIncreaseDecrease This element represents Other Comprehensive Income or Loss for the period for the noncontrolling interests. Other comprehensive income (loss) attributable to common stockholders Other Comprehensive Income Loss Attributable To Common Stockholders Period Increase Decrease This element represents Other Comprehensive Income or Loss for the period for the common stockholders. Pensions and Other Postretirement Benefits [Abstract] Pensions and Other Postretirement Benefits [Abstract] Pension and Other Postretirement Benefits Disclosure [Text Block] Pension and Other Postretirement Benefits Disclosure [Text Block] Preferred Stock [Table Text Block] Schedule of Stock by Class [Table Text Block] Noncontrolling interests [Table Text Block] Noncontrolling interests [Table Text Block] Tabular disclosure of noncontrolling interests included in the Balance sheet. Schedule of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) [Table Text Block] Schedule of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) [Table Text Block] Schedule of Comprehensive Income (Loss) [Table Text Block] Schedule of Comprehensive Income (Loss) [Table Text Block] Chapter 11 Proceedings and the 363 Sale [Abstract] Chapter 11 Proceedings and the 363 Sale [Abstract] Shares Issued in Reorganization [Table] Shares Issued in Reorganization [Table] Shares issued to selected creditors in reorganization. stock issued to [Axis] stock issued to [Axis] Other Significant Noncash Transaction, Name [Domain] UST [Member] US Treasury [Member] EDC [Member] Canadian Development Corporation (GEN Investment) New VEBA [Member] New VEBA entity MLC [Member] MLC entity (Motors Liquidation Company). Shares Issued in Reorganization [Line Items] Shares Issued in Reorganization [Line Items] Number Of Warrants Issued Each Tranche Number Of Warrants Issued Number of warrants issued Stock Issued During Period, Shares, New Issues Stock Issued During Period, Shares, New Issues Shares of Preferred Stock Issued Shares of Preferred Stock Issued Shares of Preferred Stock Issued during the period 7/10/2009 to 12/31/2009 Trance of Warrant or Right, Reason for Issuing to Nonemployees Class of Warrant or Right, Reason for Issuing to Nonemployees Commitments and Contingencies [Abstract] Commitments and Contingencies [Abstract] Contract Cancellation [Table] Contract Cancellation [Table] Tabular disclosure of contract cancellation charges. GMNA [Member] Represents the GM North America region for segment consolidation. GME [Member] Represents the GM Europe region for segment consolidation. GMIO [Member] Represents the GM International Operations region for segment consolidation. GMSA [Member] GMSA [Member] Represents the GM South America region for segment consolidation. Contract Cancellation [Line Items] None Gain (Loss) on Contract Termination Gain (Loss) on Contract Termination Favorable Changes to Estimated Cancellation Charges Favorable Changes to Estimated Cancellation Charges Favorable Changes to Estimated Cancellation Charges Segment Reporting [Abstract] Schedule of Segment Reporting Information, by Segment [Table Text Block] Schedule of Segment Reporting Information, by Segment [Table Text Block] Schedule of Revenue from External Customers and Long-Lived Assets, by Geographical Areas [Table Text Block] Schedule of Revenue from External Customers and Long-Lived Assets, by Geographical Areas [Table Text Block] Schedule Of Revenues From External Customers And Long Lived Assets By U.S. And Non-U.S. [Table Text Block] Schedule Of Revenues From External Customers And Long Lived AssetsBy U.S. And Non-U.S. [Table Text Block] Tabular disclosure of information concerning material long-lived assets (excluding financial instruments, customer relationships with financial institutions, mortgage and other servicing rights, deferred policy acquisition costs, and deferred taxes assets) located in U.S. and Non-U.S. areas and/or the amount of revenue from external customers attributed to U.S. and Non-U.S. Interest and Other Income [Abstract] Interest and Other Income [Text Block] Finance receivables, net [Table Text Block] Finance receivables, net [Table Text Block] Tabular disclosure summarizing the components of financing receivables. 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 Financing Receivables [Table Text Block] Allowance for Credit Losses on Financing Receivables [Table Text Block] Financing Receivable Credit Quality Indicators [Table Text Block] Financing Receivable Credit Quality Indicators [Table Text Block] Past Due Financing Receivables [Table Text Block] Past Due Financing Receivables [Table Text Block] Available for Sale Securities by Contractual Maturity [Abstract] Available for Sale Securities by Contractual Maturity [Abstract] Schedule of Available-for-sale Securities [Table] Schedule of Available-for-sale Securities [Table] Schedule of Available-for-sale Securities [Line Items] Schedule of Available-for-sale Securities [Line Items] Available-for-sale Securities, Debt Maturities, within One Year, Amortized Cost Basis Available-for-sale Securities, Debt Maturities, within One Year, Amortized Cost Basis Available-for-sale Securities, Debt Maturities, after One Through Five Years, Amortized Cost Basis Available-for-sale Securities, Debt Maturities, after One Through Five Years, Amortized Cost Basis Available-for-sale Securities, Amortized Cost Basis Available-for-sale Debt Securities, Amortized Cost Basis Available-for-sale Securities, Debt Maturities, within One Year, Fair Value Available-for-sale Securities, Debt Maturities, within One Year, Fair Value Available-for-sale Securities, Debt Maturities, after One Through Five Years, Fair Value Available-for-sale Securities, Debt Maturities, after One Through Five Years, Fair Value Available-for-sale Securities, Fair Value Disclosure Available-for-sale Securities, Fair Value Disclosure Supplemental Information for Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows [Abstract] Supplemental Information for Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows [Abstract] Schedule of Cash Flow, Supplemental Disclosures [Table Text Block] Schedule of Cash Flow, Supplemental Disclosures [Table Text Block] Acquisition And Disposals Of Businesses [Abstract] Acquisition and Disposals of Businesses [Abstract] Acquisition And Disposals Of Businesses Business Combination Disclosure [Text Block] Sale of domestic supplier [Abstract] Sale of domestic supplier [Abstract] Schedule of Equity Method Investments [Table] Schedule of Equity Method Investments [Table] Schedule of Equity Method Investment, Equity Method Investee, Name [Axis] Schedule of Equity Method Investment, Equity Method Investee, Name [Axis] Equity Method Investee, Name [Domain] Equity Method Investee, Name [Domain] Schedule of Equity Method Investments [Line Items] Schedule of Equity Method Investments [Line Items] Proceeds from Sale of Equity Method Investments Proceeds from Sale of Equity Method Investments Equity Method Investment, Ownership Percentage Equity Method Investment, Ownership Percentage New Delphi Class A interest issued and outstanding Affiliate equity interest issued and outstanding Affiliatei Class A equity interest issued and outstanding Line of Credit Facility, Increase (Decrease), Other, Net Line of Credit Facility, Increase (Decrease), Other, Net Gain on sale of New Delphi Class A Membership Interests Gain (Loss) on Sale of Stock in Subsidiary or Equity Method Investee Reorganization under Chapter 11 of US Bankruptcy Code Disclosure [Text Block] Reorganization under Chapter 11 of US Bankruptcy Code Disclosure [Text Block] Schedule of Goodwill [Table Text Block] Schedule of Goodwill [Table Text Block] Goodwill balances and key assumptions utilized for each of our reporting units that required a Step 2 analysis [Table Text Block] Goodwill balances and key assumptions utilized for each of our reporting units that required a Step 2 analysis [Table Text Block] Goodwill balances and key assumptions utilized for each of our reporting units that required a Step 2 analysis [Table Text Block] Marketable Securities [Abstract] 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] 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] Schedule of Realized Gain (Loss) [Table Text Block] Schedule of Realized Gain (Loss) [Table Text Block] Investments Classified by Contractual Maturity Date [Table Text Block] Investments Classified by Contractual Maturity Date [Table Text Block] Marketable Securities classified as cash equivalents and restricted marketable securities [Table Text Block] Marketable Securities classified as cash equivalents and restricted marketable securities [Table Text Block] Marketable Securities classified as cash equivalents and restricted marketable securities measured at fair value on recurring basis[Table Text Block] Marketable securities classified as other assets and restricted cash [Table Text Block] Marketable securities classified as other assets and restricted cash [Table Text Block] Marketable securities classified as other assets and restricted cash [Table Text Block] Inventory Disclosure [Abstract] Inventories Inventory Disclosure [Text Block] Defined Benefit Plans and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans Disclosures [Table] Defined Benefit Plans and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans Disclosures [Table] Defined Benefit Plans and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans Table Text Block [Line Items] Defined Benefit Plans and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans Table Text Block [Line Items] Defined Benefit Plan, Curtailments Defined Benefit Plan, Curtailments Loss Contingencies [Table] Loss Contingencies [Table] Loss Contingencies by Nature of Contingency [Axis] Loss Contingencies by Nature of Contingency [Axis] Loss Contingency, Nature [Domain] Loss Contingency, Nature [Domain] Loss Contingencies [Line Items] Loss Contingencies [Line Items] Delphi Charges Other Operating Expense, Net Delphi Charges Other Operating Expense, Net Dalphai charges on various agreements recorded in Other automotive expenses, net for the reporting period. Delphi Charges Cost of Sales Delphi Charges Cost of Sales Delphi charges on various agreements recorded in Automotive cost of sales for the reporting period Reorganization (Gain) Loss Debtor Reorganization Items, (Gain) Loss on Settlement of Other Claims, Net Total Delphi Charges Charges related to a domestic supplier Total charges recorded with respect to the various agreements with a domestic supplier for the reporting period. Fair Value of Class C Membership Interest Fair Value of Class C Membership Interest Fair Value of PBGC's Class C Membership Interest in New Delphi Purchase From Supplier, Low End Purchase From Supplier, Low End 2005 to 2008 annual purchase from supplier, low end Purchase from Supplier, High End Purchase from Supplier, High End 2005 to 2008 annual purchase from the supplier, high end Settlement Agreement Payment Settlement Agreement Payment Settlement Agreement payment for the reporting period PBGC Disposition Agreement Payment Disposition Agreement Payment Payment to government agency in accordance with Disposition Agreement Class C Membership Interests Class C Membership Interests PBGC Class C membership interests in New Delphi Value of Waived Claims Against Delphi Value of Waived Claims Value of waived claims against acquiree upon consummation of the acquisition. Consolidated Statements of Operations [Abstract] Consolidated Statements of Operations [Abstract] Earnings Per Share, Basic [Member] Earnings Per Share, Basic [Member] Earnings Per Share, Diluted [Member] Earnings Per Share, Diluted [Member] Net sales and revenue Revenues [Abstract] Automotive sales and revenue Revenue, Net GM Financial revenue Financial Services Revenue Total net sales and revenue 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. Other automotive expenses, net Other Operating Income (Expense), Net Goodwill impairment charges Goodwill, Impairment Loss Total costs and expenses Costs and Expenses Operating income (loss) Operating Income (Loss) Equity in income of and disposition of interest in Ally Financial Total equity in income of and disposition of interest in investee Total equity in income of and disposition of interest in investee. Automotive interest expense Interest income and other non-operating income, net Nonoperating Income (Expense) Gain (loss) on extinguishment of debt Reorganization gains, net (Note 32) Reorganization Gains Net, The amount of the gain recorded associated with the bankruptcy proceedings and 363 sales transaction during the reporting period. Income tax expense (benefit) Income Tax Expense (Benefit) Equity income, net of tax and gain on disposal of investments Equity Income Loss and Gain on Disposal of Investments This item represents the entity's proportionate share for the period of the net income (loss) of its investee (such as unconsolidated subsidiaries and joint ventures) to which the equity method of accounting is applied. Such amount typically reflects adjustments similar to those made in preparing consolidated statements, including adjustments to eliminate intercompany gains and losses, and to amortize, if appropriate, any difference between cost and underlying equity in net assets of the investee at the date of investment. This item also includes the gain and loss on disposal and the impairment charges related to the investment in non-consolidated entities. Net income (loss) Net (income) loss attributable to noncontrolling interests Net Income (Loss) Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest Net income (loss) attributable to stockholders Net Income (Loss) Attributable to Parent Basic Earnings Per Share, Basic [Abstract] Basic earnings (loss) per share Earnings Per Share, Basic Weighted-average common shares outstanding Weighted Average Number of Shares Outstanding, Basic Diluted Earnings Per Share, Diluted [Abstract] Diluted earnings (loss) per share Earnings Per Share, Diluted Weighted-average common shares outstanding Weighted Average Number of Shares Outstanding, Diluted Statement of Stockholders' Equity [Abstract] Statement, Equity Components [Axis] Statement, Equity Components [Axis] Equity Component [Domain] Equity Component [Domain] Capital Surplus [Member] Additional Paid-in Capital [Member] Retained Earnings (Accumulated Deficit) [Member] Retained Earnings [Member] Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (loss) [Member] Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) [Member] Noncontrolling Interests [Member] Noncontrolling Interest [Member] Comprehensive Income (loss) [Member] Comprehensive Income [Member] Balance Stockholders' Equity, Including Portion Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest Other comprehensive income (loss) Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax [Abstract] Foreign currency translation adjustments Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Foreign Currency Transaction and Translation Adjustment, Net of Tax Cash flow hedging gains (losses), net Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Unrealized Gain (Loss) on Derivatives Arising During Period, Net of Tax Unrealized gain (loss) on securities Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Unrealized Holding Gain (Loss) on Securities Arising During Period, Net of Tax Defined benefit plans, net Other Comprehensive Income Defined Benefit Plans During Period Net Of Tax Represents the after tax (cost) credit resulting from a plan amendment that grants (increased) decreased benefits based on service rendered in prior periods. It also represents the adjustment to other comprehensive income for prior service costs recognized as a component of net period benefit cost during the period, after tax. Represents the accumulated change in the value of either the projected benefit obligation or the plan assets resulting from experience different from that assumed or from a change in an actuarial assumption that has not been recognized in net periodic benefit cost, after tax. It also represents the adjustment to other comprehensive income for actuarial gains or losses recognized as a component of net periodic benefit cost during the period, after tax. Other comprehensive income (losses) Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax Comprehensive income (loss) Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax, Including Portion Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest Dividends declared or paid to noncontrolling interests Noncontrolling Interest, Decrease from Distributions to Noncontrolling Interest Holders Common Stock And Warrants Related To Settlement Of UAW Hourly Retiree Medical Plan Common Stock And Warrants Related To Settlement Of UAW Hourly RetireeMedicalPlan Represents the equity impact of the value of common stock and warrants related to settlement of UAW hourly retiree medical plan. Purchase of noncontrolling interest shares Noncontrolling Interest, Decrease from Redemptions or Purchase of Interests Dividends on Preferred Stock Dividends, Preferred Stock, Cash Reclassification Of Series A Preferred Stock To Permanent Equity Reclassification Of Series A Preferred Stock To Permanent Equity Represents the reclassification of Series A Preferred Stock to permanent equity. Sale Of Businesses Sale Of Businesses Equity impact of the sale of businesses during the period. Stock based compensation Adjustments to Additional Paid in Capital, Share-based Compensation, Requisite Service Period Recognition Effects of adoption of amendments to ASC 810-10 regarding variable interest entities Effects Of Adoption Of Amendments To Asc81010 Regarding Variable Interest Entities Effects of adoption of amendments to ASC 810-10 regarding variable interest entities. The adjustment to noncontrolling interest resulting from initial consolidation of previously unconsolidated affiliate. Effect of adoption of amendments in ASU 2010-28 regarding goodwill impairment Effect Of Adoption Of Amendments To ASU 2010-28 Regarding Goodwill Impairment Effect of adoption of amendments to ASU 2010-28 regarding goodwill impairment. Exercise of common stock warrants Adjustments to Additional Paid in Capital, Warrant Issued Pension plan stock contribution Stock Issued During Period, Value, Employee Benefit Plan Deconsolidation of noncontrolling interest shares Noncontrolling Interest, Decrease from Deconsolidation Other Stockholders' Equity, Other Balance Stock Issued During Period, Value, New Issues Stock Issued During Period, Value, New Issues Balance at Jul. 09, 2009 before adjustments for fresh-start reporting Stockholders' Equity, Including Portion Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest Before Adjustments for Fresh-Start Reporting Stockholders' Equity, Including Portion Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest Before Adjustments for Fresh-Start Reporting Elimination Of Predecessor Common Stock Capital Surplus And Accumulated Deficit Elimination Of Predecessor Common Stock Capital Surplus And RetainedEarnings Represents the elimination of predecessor common stock, capital surplus and retained earnings. Elimination Of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Loss Elimination Of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Loss Represents the elimination of accumulated other comprehensive loss. Issuance of common stock Issuance of common stock Equity impact of the value of new common stock issued during the period. Includes shares issued in an initial public offering or a secondary public offering. Derivative Financial Instruments and Risk Management [Abstract] Derivative Financial Instruments and Risk Management [Abstract] Schedule of Segment Reporting Information, by Segment [Table] Segment Reporting Information [Line Items] Schedule of Derivative Instruments [Table Text Block] Schedule of Derivative Instruments [Table Text Block] Fair Value, Assets Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation [Table Text Block] Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on a Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation [Table Text Block] Tabular disclosure of the fair value measurement of assets and liabilities using significant unobservable inputs (Level 3), a reconciliation of the beginning and ending balances, separately presenting changes during the period attributable to the following: (1) total gains or losses for the period (realized and unrealized), segregating those gains or losses included in earnings (or changes in net assets) and gains or losses recognized in other comprehensive income, and a description of where those gains or losses included in earnings (or changes in net assets) are reported in the statement of income (or activities); (2) purchases, sales, issuances, and settlements (each type disclosed separately); and (3) transfers in and transfers out of Level 3 (for example, transfers due to changes in the observability of significant inputs), by class of asset. [Table Text Block] Schedule of Future Mimimum Commitments for Operating Leases [Table] Schedule of Future Minimum Commitments for Opearating Leases [Table] Schedule of Future Minimum Commitments for Opearating Leases [Table] Operating Leases Minimum Commitment Future Periods [Axis] Operating Leases Minimum Commitment Future Periods [Axis] Five Year Disclosure [Domain] 2012 [Member] One Year from Balance Sheet Date [Member] 2013 [Member] More than One and within Two Years from Balance Sheet Date [Member] 2014 [Member] More than Two and within Three Years from Balance Sheet Date [Member] 2015 [Member] More than Three and within Four Years from Balance Sheet Date [Member] 2016 [Member] More than Four and within Five Years from Balance Sheet Date [Member] 2017 and Thereafter [Member] More than Five Years from Balance Sheet Date and Thereafter [Member] Operating Leased Assets [Line Items] Operating Leased Assets [Line Items] Operating Leases, Rent Expense, Net Operating Leases, Rent Expense, Net Minimum Commitment on Operating Lease Operating Leases, Future Minimum Payments Due Sublease Income Operating Leases, Future Minimum Payments Due, Future Minimum Sublease Rentals Net Minimum Commitment on Operating Lease Net Minimum Commitment on Operating Lease The total of future contractually required payments on leases defined as operating, net of contractually required future rental payments receivable on noncancelable subleasing arrangements. Restructuring and Other Initiatives [Abstract] Restructuring and Other Initiatives [Abstract] Schedule of Restructuring and Related Costs [Table] Schedule of Restructuring and Related Costs [Table] Business Acquisition [Axis] Business Acquisition [Axis] Business Acquisition, Acquiree [Domain] Business Acquisition, Acquiree [Domain] Restructuring Cost and Reserve [Axis] Restructuring Cost and Reserve [Axis] Type of Restructuring [Domain] Type of Restructuring [Domain] Restructuring Cost and Reserve [Line Items] Restructuring Cost and Reserve [Line Items] Restructuring Reserve [Abstract] Restructuring Reserve [Abstract] Restructuring Reserve Restructuring Reserve Restructuring Charges Restructuring Charges Restructuring Interest Accretion and Other Restructuring Interest Accretion and Other Restructuring Interest Accretion and Other. Payments for Restructuring Payments for Restructuring Restructuring Reserve, Accrual Adjustment Restructuring Reserve, Accrual Adjustment Restructuring Reserve, Translation Adjustment Restructuring Reserve, Translation Adjustment Effect Of Application Of Fresh Start Reporting Restructuring And Other Initiatives Effect Of Application Of Fresh Start Reporting Restructuring And Other Initiatives Effect Of Application Of Fresh Start Reporting. Restructuring And Other Initiatives Ending Balance Including Effect Of Application Of Fresh-Start Reporting Restructuring And Other Initiatives Ending Balance Including Effect Of Application Of Fresh-Start Reporting Ending Balance Including Effect Of Application Of Fresh-Start Reporting Predecessor relatd to restructuring and other initiatives. Dealer Wind Down [Roll Forward] Dealer Wind Down [Roll Forward] Dealer Wind Down [Roll Forward] Restructuring Reserve Dealer Wind-Downs Restructuring Reserve Dealer Wind-Downs Carrying amount (including both current and noncurrent portions of the accrual) as of the balance sheet date pertaining to Dealer Wind-downs. Dealer-Wind Down Charges Dealer-Wind Down Charges Amount charged against earnings in the period for incurred and estimated costs associated with Dealer Wind-Down. Payments For Dealer Wind-Downs Payments For Dealer Wind-Downs The amount of cash paid during the reporting period for charges associated with Dealer Wind-downs. Transfer to legal reserve Transfer to legal reserve The amount transfer to legal reserve related to Dealer Wind-downs. Restructuring Reserve, Translation Adjustment Dealer Wind Down Restructuring Reserve Translation Adjustment Amount of foreign currency translation adjustment increasing or decreasing the accrual for Dealer Wind Down cost. Restructuring and Related Activities (Text) [Abstract] Restructuring and Related Activities [Abstract] Range of cash severance incentive programs Range of cash severance incentive programs Amount that cash severance incentive programs included in Labor Agreement may range up to. Restructuring Reserve, Accrual Adjustment Revisions To Estimates To Decrease The Reserve Revisions To Estimates To Decrease The Reserve. Postemployment Benefit Charges In U.S. Postemployment Benefit Charges In U.S. Postemployment benefit charges in U.S. Amount Of Restructuring And Early Retirement Programs Cost In Certain Countries Amount Of Restructuring And Early Retirement Programs Cost In Certain Countries Amount of total cost of restructuring and early retirement programs in Spair, U.K., Belgium and Germany. Number Of Employees Affected By Restructuring and Early Retirement Programs Number Of Employees Affected By Restructuring and Early Retirement Programs Number of employees affected by restructuring and early retirement programs. Expected Amount Of Additional Restructuring and Early Retirement Programs In Certain Countries Expected Amount Of Additional Restructuring and Early Retirement Programs In Certain Countries Expected Amount Of Additional Restructuring and Early Retirement Programs In Certain Countries Number Of Additional Employees Affected By Restructuring And Early Retirement Number Of Additional Employees Affected By Restructuring And Early Retirement Number Of Additional Employees Affected By Restructuring And Early Retirement. New Of Employees Number of Employees Numberof Employees Total Cost of Separation Program in Brazil Total Cost of Separation Program in Brazil Total Cost of Separation Program in Brazil. Separation Charges Related To Closure Of Antwerp Belgium Facility Separation Charges Related To Closure Of Antwerp Belgium Facility Amount charged against earnings in the period for incurred and estimated costs associated with closure of Antwerp, Belgium facility. Number Of Employees Affected By Closure Of Belgium Facility Number Of Employees Affected By Closure Of Belgium Facility Number Of Employees Affected By Closure Of Belgium. Separation Charges Related To Layoff Plans And Early Retirement In Spain Separation Charges Related To Layoff Plans And Early Retirement In Spain Separation Charges Related To Layoff Plans And Early Retirement In Spain. Number Of Employees Affected By Layoff And Early Retirment Plan In Spain Number Of Employees Affected By Layoff And Early Retirment Plan In Spain Employees Affected By Layoff And Early Retirment Plan In Spain Separation Charges Related To A Voluntary Separation Program In United Kingdom Separation Charges Related To A Voluntary Separation Program In United Kingdom Separation charges related to a voluntary separation program in united kingdom. Separation Charges Related To Voluntary Separation Program In Germany Separation Charges Related To Voluntary Separation Program In Germany Separation charges related to voluntary separation program in Germany. Interest Accretion And Other Related To Voluntary Separation In Germany Interest Accretion And Other Related To Voluntary Separation In Germany Interest accretion and other related to voluntary separation in Germany. Amount Of Separation Charges Amount Of Separation Charges Amount of separation charges during the period. Expected Additional Amount For Completion Of Programs Expected Additional Amount For Completion Of Programs Expected additional amount for completion of programs. Increase In Restructuring Reserves Due To SUB And TSP Accrual Increase In Restructuring Reserves Due To SUB And TSP Accrual Increase in restructuring reserves due to SUB and TSP accrual Increase In SUB And TSP Accrual Increase In SUB And TSP Accrual Increase in SUB and TSP accrual related to capacity actions, productivity initiatives, acquisitions of Nexteer and four domestic facilities and Canadian restructuring activities. Canadian Restructuring Activities Canadian Restructuring Activities Canadian restructuring activities. Number Of Hourly Employees In Special Attrition Programs Number Of Hourly Employees In Special Attrition Programs Number of hourly employees who participated in the 2009 Special Attrition Programs. Additional SUB And TSP Charges Determined By An Actuarial Analysis Additional Temporary Layoff Benefit Charges Determined By An Actuarial Analysis Represents additional temporary layoff benefit charges determined by an actuarial analysis. Suspension Of Jobs Program Suspension of the JOBS Program Suspension of the JOBS Program. Decrease In Estimated Future Wages And Benefits Decrease In Estimated Future Wages And Benefits Represents a decrease in estimated future wages and benefits due to employees who participated in Special Attrition Programs. Increase In Canadian Salaried Workforce Reductions And Other Restructuring Initiatives Increase In Canadian Salaried Workforce Reductions And Other Restructuring Initiatives Represents increase in Canadian salaried workforce reductions and other restructuring initiatives in Canada. U.S. Salaried Severance Program U.S. Salaried Severance Program Represents charges related to U.S. salaried severance program so that terminated employees can receive on going wages and benefit for a certain period. Number Of Terminated Employees Number Of Terminated Employees Number Of Terminated Employees To receive Ongoing Wages. Number Of Months To Receive Wages And Benefits Number Of Months To Receive Wages And Benefits Number Of Months Terminated employees in U.S. salaried severance program will Receive Wages And Benefits Postemployment Benefit Charges In Canada Postemployment Benefit Charges In Canada Postemployment benefit charges in Canada related to hourly employees in special attrition program at Oshawa Facility. Number Of Hourly Employees in Special Attrition Program At Oshawa Number Of Hourly Employees in Special Attrition Program Number Of Hourly Employees in Special Attrition Program. Number Of Salaried And Hourly Employees In Separation Programs Number Of Salaried And Hourly Employees In Separation Programs Represents number of salaried and hourly employees in voluntary and involuntary separation programs. Decrease In Salaried And Hourly Workforce Severance Accruals Decrease In Salaried And Hourly Workforce Severance Accruals Represents the amount of decrease in salaried and hourly workforce severance accruals that were reclassified as special termination benefits. Separation Charges for Restructuring Programs in Australia Separation Charges for Restructuring Programs in Australia Separation Charges for Restructuring Programs in Australia for salaried and hourly employees. Note 17. Short-Term and Long-Term Debt [Abstract] Note 17. Short-Term and Long-Term Debt [Abstract] Schedule of Long-term Debt Instruments [Table] Schedule of Long-term Debt Instruments [Table] Debt Instrument [Axis] Debt Instrument, Name [Domain] Debt Instrument [Line Items] Debt Instrument [Line Items] 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 PrincipalIn Year Six Long-Term Debt Maturities Repayments Of Principal In Year Six Amount of long-term debt maturing in year six following the date of the latest balance sheet presented in the financial statements, which may include maturities of long-term debt, sinking fund requirements, and other securities redeemable at fixed of determinable prices and dates. Long-term Debt, Maturities, Repayments of Principal after Year Five Long-term Debt, Maturities, Repayments of Principal after Year Five Total Long-term Debt, Maturities, Repayments of Principal Total Long-term Debt, Maturities, Repayments of Principal Total Long-term Debt, Maturities, Repayments of Principal Components of Interest Expense Related to Contingent Convertible Debt [Abstract] Components of Interest Expense Related to Contingent Convertible Debt [Abstract] Long-term and Short-term Debt, Type [Axis] Long-term and Short-term Debt, Type [Axis] Long-term and Short-term Debt, Type [Axis] Long-term and Short-term Debt, Type [Domain] Long-term and Short-term Debt, Type [Domain] Long-term and Short-term Debt, Type [Domain] Contractual Interest Expense Not Accrued On Pre-Petition Debt [Member] Contractual Interest Expense Not Accrued On Pre-Petition Debt [Member] Contractual interest expense not accrued or recorded on pre-petition debt. Line of Credit Facility [Axis] Line of Credit Facility [Axis] Line of Credit Facility, Lender [Domain] Line of Credit Facility, Lender [Domain] Line of Credit Facility Maximum Outstanding [Member] Line of Credit Facility Maximum Outstanding [Member] Line of credit facility maximum outstanding [Member] Convertible Debt [Member] Debt and Capital Lease Obligations Debt and Capital Lease Obligations Debt Instrument, Increase, Accrued Interest Debt Instrument, Increase, Accrued Interest Interest Accrued or Paid Interest Accrued or Paid Interest Accrued or Paid Amortization of Debt Discount (Premium) Amortization of Debt Discount (Premium) Interest Expense Interest Expense on Contingent Convertible Debt Interest Expense on Contungent Convertible Debt Schedule of Goodwill [Table] Schedule of Goodwill [Table] Statement, Operating Activities Segment [Axis] Segment, Operating Activities [Domain] GM Korea [Member] GM Korea Holden [Member] Holden Range [Axis] Range [Axis] Range [Domain] Range [Domain] Goodwill [Line Items] Goodwill Goodwill Reporting unit reorganization Reporting Unit Reorganization Represents the reorganization of a reporting unit. Effect of adoption of ASU 2010-28 Goodwill acquired Goodwill, Acquired During Period Disposals Goodwill, Written off Related to Sale of Business Unit Impairment charges Deconsolidation of entity Deconsolidation of Entity Write-off of the carrying amount of goodwill associated with all or a portion of a reporting unit that is deconsolidated in the period. Effect of foreign currency translation and other Goodwill, Translation Adjustments Effect of foreign currency translation and other Goodwill, Other Changes Goodwill Accumulated impairment charges Goodwill, Impaired, Accumulated Impairment Loss Weighted-Average Cost of Capital Weighted-Average Cost of Capital Weighted-Average Cost of Capital Long-Term Growth Rates Long-Term Growth Rates Long-Term Growth Rates Industry Vehicle Sales Industry Vehicle Sales Industry Vehicle Sales Market Share Market Share Market Share Stockholders' Equity Note Disclosure [Text Block] Stockholders' Equity Note Disclosure [Text Block] Fair Value Disclosure for Marketable Securities [Abstract] Fair Value Disclosure for Marketable Securities [Abstract] Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Table] Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Table] Fair Value by Asset Class [Axis] Fair Value, Assets Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation, by Asset Class [Domain] Securities (Assets) [Member] Foreign Government Debt Securities [Member] Certificates of Deposit [Member] Money Market Funds [Member] Commercial Paper [Member] Fair Value, Hierarchy [Axis] Fair Value, Hierarchy [Axis] Fair Value, Measurements, Fair Value Hierarchy [Domain] Fair Value, Measurements, Fair Value Hierarchy [Domain] Fair Value by Measurement Frequency [Axis] Fair Value by Measurement Frequency [Axis] Fair Value, Measurement Frequency [Domain] Fair Value, Measurement Frequency [Domain] Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member] Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items] Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items] Cash and Cash Equivalents, Fair Value Disclosure Cash and Cash Equivalents, Fair Value Disclosure Marketable Securities, Restricted Marketable Securities, Restricted Textual Disclosures [Abstract] Textual Disclosures [Abstract] Future Interest Payments on Capital Leases [Member] Represents the aggregate portion of future cash payments on capital lease obligations deemed to be interest. Wholesale Financing [Member] Amounts owed under short-term wholesale financing oblgiations. Extinguishment of Debt [Axis] Extinguishment of Debt, Type [Domain] Secured Debt [Member] US Term Loan [Member] Represents the carrying value of amounts outstanding under the US Term Loan debt obligation. Canadian Health Care Trust Notes [Member] Represents the fair value of amounts outstanding under the HCT Notes debt obligation as of the end of the reporting period. Mandatorily Redeemable Preferred Stock [Member] Line of Credit [Member] Letter of Credit Sub-facility [Member] Amount available under the letters of credit sub-facility within the secured revolving credit facility. Non-Loan Facility [Member] Amount of collateral available under the non-loan facility within the secured revolver which can be used to fulfill other collateral requirements. Old GM Revolving Credit Facility [Member] Represents the carrying value of amounts outstanding under the secured revolving credit facility debt obligation. Old GM Credit Facility [Member] Represents the carrying value of amounts outstanding under the secured credit facility debt obligation. HCT Notes Payable, Fair Value Notes Payable, Fair Value Disclosure Debt Instrument, Periodic Payment Debt Instrument, Periodic Payment Extinguishment of Debt, Amount Extinguishment of Debt, Amount Debt Instrument, Face Amount Debt Instrument, Face Amount Debt Instrument, Interest Rate, Effective Percentage Debt Instrument, Interest Rate, Effective Percentage Rate through October 2012 Rate through October 2012 Dividend Rate through October 2012 Discount(Premium) on Debt Discount(Premium) on Debt Debt discount or premium represents the difference between the carrying value and face amount of the debt obligation as of the end of the reporting period. Debt Instrument, Interest Rate, Stated Percentage Debt Instrument, Interest Rate, Stated Percentage Rate after October 2012 Rate after October 2012 Dividend Rate after October 2012 through redemption Gains (Losses) on Extinguishment of Debt Line of Credit Facility, Maximum Borrowing Capacity Line of Credit Facility, Maximum Borrowing Capacity Reorganization gains, net Debt Instrument, Unamortized Discount Debt Instrument, Unamortized Discount GM Korea Preferred Stock Outstanding Preferred Stock, Value, Outstanding Component of Accrued Liabilities [Abstract] None Accrued Liabilities, Current [Abstract] Accrued Liabilities, Current [Abstract] Dealer and customer allowances, claims and discounts Dealer And Customer Allowances And Claims And Discounts Current Aggregate carrying value as of the balance sheet date of the liabilities for sales incentives, dealer and distributor related accruals, including marketing and advertising programs. Represents the current portion of the liabilities (due within one year or within the normal operating cycle if longer). Deposits from rental car companies Deposits From Rental Car Companies Current Aggregate carrying value as of the balance sheet date for deposits from rental car companies. Represents the current portion of the liabilities (due within one year or within the normal operating cycle if longer). Deferred revenue Deferred Revenue, Current Policy, product warranty and recall campaigns Product Warranty Accrual, Current Payrolls and employee benefits excluding postemployment benefits Accrued Payroll And Employee Benefits Current Carrying value as of the balance sheet date of obligations, excluding pension and other postretirement benefits, incurred through that date and payable for perquisites provided to employees pertaining to services received from them, and obligations incurred through that date and payable for employees' services provided. Used to reflect the current portion of the liabilities (due within one year or within the normal operating cycle if longer). Taxes other than income taxes Accrual for Taxes Other than Income Taxes, Current Other Other Accrued Liabilities, Current Total accrued liabilities Accrued Liabilities, Current Other Liabilities And Deferred Income Taxes Noncurrent [Abstract] Other Liabilities And Deferred Income Taxes Noncurrent. Deferred revenue Deferred Revenue, Noncurrent Policy, product warranty and recall campaigns Product Warranty Accrual, Noncurrent Employee benefits excluding postemployment benefits Accrued Employee Benefits NonCurrent Carrying value as of the balance sheet date of obligations, excluding pension and other postretirement benefits, and due beyond one year (or beyond one operating cycle if longer) for perquisites provided to employees pertaining to services received from them. Used to reflect the noncurrent portion of the liabilities. Postemployment benefits including facility idling reserves Postemployment Benefits Including Facility Idling Reserves NonCurrent This represents the noncurrent liability recognized in the balance sheet that is associated with other postemployment benefits included facility idling reserves. Deferred income taxes Deferred Tax Liabilities, Noncurrent Other Other Accrued Liabilities, Noncurrent Total other liabilities and deferred income taxes Other Liabilities, Noncurrent Schedule of Restructuring and Related Costs [Table Text Block] Schedule of Restructuring and Related Costs [Table Text Block] Restructuring and Related Costs of Predecessor [Table Text Block] Restructuring and Related Costs of Predecessor [Table Text Block] Tabular Restructuring and Related Costs of predecessor. Dealer Wind-downs - Successor [Table Text Block] Dealer Wind-downs - Successor [Table Text Block] Tabular disclosur of Dealer Wind-downs - Successor. Schedule of Property, Plant and Equipment [Table] Property, Plant and Equipment by Type [Axis] Property, Plant and Equipment, Type [Domain] Building and Building Improvements [Member] Machinery and Equipment [Member] Special Tools [Member] Special Tools [Member] Fair Value, Inputs, Level 3 [Member] Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items] Land Land Buildings and Improvements Buildings and Improvements, Gross Machinery and Equipment Machinery and Equipment, Gross Construction in Progress Construction in Progress, Gross Real Estate Plants And Equipment Real Estate Plants And Equipment Aggregate gross amount, as of the balance sheet date, of land, buildings and improvements, machinery and equipment and construction in progress Less Accumulated Depreciation Accumulated Depreciation, Depletion and Amortization, Property, Plant, and Equipment Real Estate Plants and Equipment net Real Estate Plants and Equipment net Tangible assets excluding special tools that are held by an entity for use in the production or supply of goods and services, for rental to others, or for administrative purposes and that are expected to provide economic benefit for more than one year; net of accumulated depreciation. Special Tools Net Special Tools Net Net amount of long lived, depreciable assets commonly used to cut, shape, and form metal and other materials into goods for sale. Property, Plant and Equipment, Net Property, Plant and Equipment, Net Capitalized Interest and Software [Abstract] Capitalized Interest and Software [Abstract] Capitalized Interest Interest Costs Incurred, Capitalized Capitalized Computer Software, Net Capitalized Computer Software, Net Capitalized Software Development, net CapitalizedSoftwareDevelopment Capitalized costs to develop software for sale or licensing, or for long-term internal use. Depreciation, Amortization and Impairment [Abstract] Depreciation, Amortization and Impairment [Abstract] Depreciation and amortization of long-lived assets Depreciation Impairment Charges of Long-Lived Assets Impairment Charges Related To Long-Lived Assets The aggregate expense recognized in the current period that represents the impairment of long-lived assets. Total Depreciation Amortization And Impairment On Property Plant And Equipment DepreciationAmortizationAndImpairmentOnPropertyPlantAndEquipment Depreciation, amortization and impairment of property, plant and equipment directly related to goods produced and sold and services rendered by an entity during a reporting period. Capitalized Software Amortization CapitalizedSoftwareAmortization Amortization of purchased capitalized software and software being developed for long-term internal use. Property, Plant and Equipment, Useful Life, Minimum Property, Plant and Equipment, Useful Life, Maximum Fair Value of Assets Nonrecurring Basis Min Fair Value of Assets Nonrecurring Basis Min This element represents the lowest amount of aggregate of the assets measured at fair value on a nonrecurring basis by the entity during the reporting period. This element is intended to be used in connection with the fair value disclosures required in the footnote disclosures to the financial statements. Fair Value of Assets Nonrecurring Basis Max Fair Value of Assets Nonrecurring Basis Max This element represents the highest amount of aggregate of the assets measured at fair value on a nonrecurring basis by the entity during the reporting period. This element is intended to be used in connection with the fair value disclosures required in the footnote disclosures to the financial statements. Incremental Depreciation Charges Incremental Depreciation Charges Incremental depreciation charges recorded during the reporting period due to the changes to the assets useful life Securitizations (Abstract) Securitizations [Abstract] Securitizations Securitizations Text Block Description of and amounts pertaining to securitization activity and cash flows from special purpose entities used for securitizations accounted for as secured financings. Derivatives [Abstract] Derivatives [Abstract] Schedule of Derivative Instruments, Effect on Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) [Table Text Block] Schedule of Derivative Instruments, Effect on Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) [Table Text Block] Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on a Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation [Table Text Block] Gains and (Losses) Reclassified from Accumulated OCI for Cash Flow Hedges on Forecasted Transactions that Subsequently became Orobable Not to Occur [Table Text Block] Gains and (Losses) Reclassified from Accumulated OCI for Cash Flow Hedges on Forecasted Transactions that Subsequently became Orobable Not to Occur [Table Text Block] Gains and (Losses) Reclassified from Accumulated OCI for Cash Flow Hedges on Forecasted Transactions that Subsequently became Orobable Not to Occur [Table Text Block] Schedule of Derivative Instruments in Statement of Financial Position, Fair Value [Table Text Block] Schedule of Derivative Instruments in Statement of Financial Position, Fair Value [Table Text Block] Fair Value, Assets Measured on Recurring Basis [Table Text Block] Schedule of Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss) in Statement of Financial Performance [Table Text Block] Schedule of Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss) in Statement of Financial Performance [Table Text Block] Gain (Loss) on Discontinuation of Foreign Currency Cash Flow Hedge Due to Forecasted Transaction Probable of Not Occurring, Net Gain (Loss) on Discontinuation of Foreign Currency Cash Flow Hedge Due to Forecasted Transaction Probable of Not Occurring, Net Commitments and Contingencies Disclosure [Abstract] Commitments And Contingencies Commitments Contingencies and Guarantees [Text Block] Supplementary Quarterly Financial Information (Unaudited) [Abstract] Supplementary Quarterly Financial Information (Unaudited) [Abstract] Total net sales and revenue Gross Profit Gross Profit Net income (loss) attributable to stockholders HCT Settlement Gain Defined Benefit Plan, Recognized Net (Gain) Loss Due to Settlements Reversal of valuation allowances against deferred tax asset Reversal Of Valuation Allowances Against Deferred Tax Asset The amount of the gain recorded associated with the reversal of specific valuation allowances against deferred tax assets during the reporting period. Gain on sale of New Delphi Class A membership interest Gain (Loss) on Sale of Stock in Subsidiary Charge on stock repurchased from the governent Charge On Stock Repurchase From The Government Charge on stock repurchase from the government Series A Stock Repurchased, Shares Stock Repurchased During Period, Shares 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] Financing Receivable, Allowance for Credit Losses Financing Receivable, Allowance for Credit Losses Financing Receivable, Allowance for Credit Losses, Provisions Financing Receivable, Allowance for Credit Losses, Provisions Charge-offs Financing Receivable, Allowance for Credit Losses, Recoveries Financing Receivable, Allowance for Credit Losses, Recoveries Financing Receivable, Allowance for Credit Losses Schedule of Quarterly Financial Information [Table Text Block] Schedule of Quarterly Financial Information [Table Text Block] Schedule of Other Operating Cost and Expense, by Component [Table Text Block] Schedule of Other Operating Cost and Expense, by Component [Table Text Block] Acquisition and Disposal of Businesses [Abstract] Acquisition and Disposal of Businesses [Abstract] Schedule of Significant Acquisitions and Disposals [Table] Schedule of Significant Acquisitions and Disposals [Table] Nexteer revenue [Axis] Nexteer revenue [Axis] Nexteer Revenues [Domain] Nexteer Revenues [Domain] GM [Member] GM [Member] Nexteer [Member] Nexteer [Member] Nexteer [Member] Significant Acquisitions and Disposals [Line Items] Significant Acquisitions and Disposals [Line Items] Significant Acquisitions and Disposals, Date of Transaction for Acquisition or Disposal Significant Acquisitions and Disposals, Date of Transaction for Acquisition or Disposal Proceeds from Divestiture of Businesses Proceeds from Divestiture of Businesses Noncash or Part Noncash Divestiture, Amount of Consideration Received Noncash or Part Noncash Divestiture, Amount of Consideration Received Sale of Stock, Percentage of Ownership before Transaction Sale of Stock, Percentage of Ownership before Transaction Disposal Group, Not Discontinued Operation, Gain (Loss) on Disposal Disposal Group, Not Discontinued Operation, Gain (Loss) on Disposal Disposal Group, Including Discontinued Operation, Revenue Disposal Group, Including Discontinued Operation, Revenue Variable Interest Entities [Abstract] Variable Interest Entities [Abstract] Schedule of Variable Interest Entities [Table Text Block] Schedule of Variable Interest Entities [Table Text Block] Note 26. Earnings (Loss) Per Share [Abstract] Note 26. Earnings (Loss) 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] Equipment on Operating Leases, net [Abstract] Equipment on Operating Leases, net [Abstract] Operating Leases of Lessor Disclosure [Text Block] Operating Leases of Lessor Disclosure [Text Block] Equity Loss of JV retained by MLC Equity Loss of JV retained by Predecessor Equity Loss of JV retained by Predecessor China JVs Net Sales China JVs Net Sales China JVs Net Sales Other nonconsolidated affiliates net sales Other nonconsolidated affiliates net sales Other nonconsolidated affiliates' net sales Total nonconsolidated affiliates net sales Total nonconsolidated affiliates net sales Total nonconsolidated affiliates' net sales China JVs net income China JVs net income China JVs net income Other nonconsolidated affiliates net income Other nonconsolidated affiliates net income Other nonconsolidated affiliates net income Total nonconsolidated affiliates net income Total nonconsolidated affiliates net income Total nonconsolidated affiliates' net income Variable Interest Entities [Text Block] Variable Interest Entities [Text Block] [Disclosure 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. Basis Of Presentation Basis of Presentation [Abstract] Basis of Accounting [Text Block] Basis of Accounting [Text Block] Basis Of Presentation And Recent Accounting Standards Basis of Presentation and Significant Accounting Policies [Text Block] Derivative [Table] Derivative [Table] Warrant [Member] Embedded Derivative Financial Instruments [Member] Interest Expense [Member] Derivative, by Nature [Axis] Derivative, by Nature [Axis] Derivative, Name [Domain] Derivative, Name [Domain] Derivative [Line Items] Derivative [Line Items] Transfers ouf of Level 3 Fair Value, Measurement with Unobservable Inputs Reconciliation, Recurring Basis, Asset, Transfers out of Level 3 Derivative, Cash Received on Hedge Derivative, Cash Received on Hedge Embedded Derivative - Long-term Supply Agreement Embedded Derivative - Long-term Supply Agreement Embedded Derivative - Long-term Supply Agreement American Axle Common Stock Warrants to Purchase Supplier Common Stock Warrants to purchase Common Stock of supplier. Derivative, Loss on Derivative Derivative, Loss on Derivative Derivative, Collateral, Obligation to Return Cash Derivative, Collateral, Obligation to Return Cash General Motors Common Stock Price Per Share Common Stock Warrant Exercise Price Per Share Common Stock Warrant Exercise Price Per Share American Axle Common Stock Price Per Share Warrant for Supplier Common Stock Price per share Stock Price Per Share for Supplier Common Stock subject to warrant. Warrants - American Axle Common Stock Warrants Supplier Common Stock Warrants - Supplier Common Stock Proceeds from Warrant Exercises Proceeds from Warrant Exercises Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Derivatives Qualifying as Hedges, Net of Tax Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Derivatives Qualifying as Hedges, Net of Tax Cash Flow Hedge Loss Reclassified to Other Income Cash Flow Hedge Loss Reclassified to Other Income Cash Flow Hedging Loss Reclassified from Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income to Earnings Cash Flow Hedging Loss Reclassified from Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income to Earnings Cash Flow Hedging Loss Reclassified from Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income to Earnings HKJV [Member] HKJV [Member] HKJV [Member] Equity Method Investments, Fair Value Disclosure Equity Method Investments, Fair Value Disclosure Equity Method Investments Equity Method Investments Impairment Charges Related To Equity Method Investments Impairment Charges Related To Equity Method Investments The aggregate expense recognized in the current period that represents the impairment of the carrying amount of equity method investment. Other Noncash Expense Other Noncash Expense Significant Accounting Policies [Text Block] Significant Accounting Policies [Text Block] Securities Issued to Debt Holders [Table Text Block] Securities issued to debt holders including common stock, preferred stock and common stock warrants Reorganization gains and losses [Table Text Block] Reorganization gains and losses arising from the Bankruptcy Code Section 363 sale and fresh-start adjustments debtor-in-possession financings [Table Text Block] Listing of DIP financings from governmental entities Note 14. Restricted Cash and Marketable Securities [Abstract] Note 14. Restricted Cash and Marketable Securities [Abstract] Schedule of Financing Receivable, Recorded Investment, Credit Quality Indicator [Table] Schedule of Financing Receivable, Recorded Investment, Credit Quality Indicator [Table] Financing Receivable, Recorded Investment [Line Items] Financing Receivable, Recorded Investment [Line Items] FICO Scores Less Than 540 FICO Scores Less Than 540 FICO Scores Less Than 540 FICO Scores 540 to 599 FICO Scores 540 to 599 FICO Scores 540 to 599 FICO Scores 600 to 659 FICO Scores 600 to 659 FICO Scores 600 to 659 FICO Scores Greater Thank 660 FICO Scores Greater Thank 660 FICO Scores Greater Than 660 Financing Receivable Financing Receivable Schedule of Variable Interest Entities [Table] Schedule of Variable Interest Entities [Table] Legal Entity [Axis] Entity [Domain] GM Korea [Member] GM Egypt [Member] GM Egypt [Member] GM Egypt [Member] Variable Interest Entities by Classification of Entity [Axis] Variable Interest Entities by Classification of Entity [Axis] Variable Interest Entity, Classification [Domain] Variable Interest Entity, Classification [Domain] Variable Interest Entity, Not Primary Beneficiary, Aggregated Disclosure [Member] Variable Interest Entity, Not Primary Beneficiary, Aggregated Disclosure [Member] Consolidated Variable Interest Entity [Member] Variable Interest Entity, Primary Beneficiary, Aggregated Disclosure [Member] Variable Interest Entity [Line Items] Variable Interest Entity [Line Items] Direct ownership in investee Direct ownership in investee Direct ownership in investee Consolidated VIE [Abstract] Consolidated VIE [Abstract] Consolidated VIE Total Assets Variable Interest Entity, Consolidated, Carrying Amount, Assets Consolidated VIE Total Liabilities Variable Interest Entity, Consolidated, Carrying Amount, Liabilities Consolidated VIE Total Net Sales and Revenue Consolidated VIE Total Net Sales and Revenue The total net sales and revenue of consolidated variable interest entities included in the reporting entity's statement of income. Consolidated VIE Total Net Income Consolidated VIE Total Net Income The total net income of consolidated variable interest entities included in reporting entity's statements of income Nonrecourse Short Term Debt Non-Recourse Short Term Debt Reflects the non-recourse portion of the VIE's total carrying amount as of the balance sheet date of debt having initial terms less than one year or the normal operating cycle, if longer. Nonrecourse Current Derivative Liabilities Nonrecourse Current Derivative Liabilities Fair values as of the balance sheet date of VIE's non-recourse liabilities resulting from contracts that meet the criteria of being accounted for as derivative instruments, and which are expected to be extinguished or otherwise disposed of within a year or the normal operating cycle, if longer, net of the effects of master netting arrangements. Nonrecourse Long-term Debt Nonrecourse Long Term Debt Including VIE's nonrecourse aggregate carrying amount of long-term borrowings as of the balance sheet date. May include notes payable, bonds payable, commercial loans, mortgage loans, convertible debt, subordinated debt and other types of debt, which had initial maturities beyond one year or beyond the normal operating cycle, if longer, and after deducting unamortized discount or premiums, if any. Non-consolidated VIE [Abstract] Non-consolidated VIE [Abstract] Accounts and notes receivable, net Accounts, Notes, Loans and Financing Receivable, Net, Current Equity in net assets of nonconsolidated affiliates Other assets and deferred income taxes Other Assets, Noncurrent Total Assets Variable Interest Entity, Nonconsolidated, Carrying Amount, Assets Accounts Notes Receivables Maximum Exposure Accounts Notes Receivables Maximum Exposure The maximum exposure to loss of the accounts and notes receivables related to VIE Equity Investment Maximum Exposure Equity Investment Maximum Exposure The maximum exposure to loss of the equity investment related to VIE Other Assets Maximum Exposure Other Assets Maximum Exposure The maximum exposure to loss of the other assets related to VIE Total Assets Maximum Exposure Total Assets Maximum Exposure The maximum exposure to loss of the total assets related to VIE Accounts payable (principally trade) Accounts Payable, Current Other Liabilities Total Liabilities Variable Interest Entity, Nonconsolidated, Carrying Amount, Liabilities Loan Commitment Maximum Exposure Loan Commitment Maximum Exposure The maximum exposure to loss of the loan commitment related to VIE Other guarantees Maximum Exposure Guarantor Obligations, Maximum Exposure, Undiscounted Other Liquidity Arrangement Maximum Exposure Other Liquidity Arrangement Maximum Exposure The maximum exposure to loss of other liquidity arrangement related to VIE Total Off-balance Sheet Arrangements Off Balance Sheet Arrangement Maximum Exposure The maximum exposure to loss of all off balance sheet arrangements related to VIE 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] Schedule of Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Award Type and Plan Name [Axis] Schedule of Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Award Type and Plan Name [Axis] Share-based Compensation Arrangements by Share-based Payment Award, Award Type and Plan Name [Domain] Share-based Compensation Arrangements by Share-based Payment Award, Award Type and Plan Name [Domain] Restricted Stock Units (RSUs) [Member] Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items] Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items] Aggregrate number of shares which may be granted under GMLTIP and GMSSP Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Number of Shares Authorized RSUs Outstanding at Balance Sheet Date RSUs outstanding at balance sheet date RSUs outstanding at balance sheet date 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 Outstanding at Balance Sheet Date RSUs unvested and expected to vest RSUs unvested and expected to vest RSUs unvested and expected to vest at balance sheet date. RSUs vested and payable RSUs vested and payable RSUs vested and payable at balance sheet. RSUs Outstanding, Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value at Balance Sheet Date RSUs outstanding, weighted average grant date fair value at balance sheet date RSUs outstanding, weighted average grant date fair value at 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, Forfeited in Period, Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value RSUs Outstanding, Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value at Balance Sheet Date RSUs Weighted Average unvested and expected to vest RSUs Weighted Average unvested and expected to vest RSUs Weighted Average unvested and expected to vest at balance sheet date. RSUs Weighted Average vested and payable RSUs Weighted Average vested and payable RSUs Weighted Average vested and payable at balance sheet. RSUs Weighted Average Remaining Contractual Terms vested and payable RSUs Weighted Average Remaining Contractual Terms vested and payable RSUs Weighted Average Remaining Contractual Terms vested and payable at balance sheet date Weighted Average Remaining Contractual Term Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Outstanding, Weighted Average Remaining Contractual Term RSUs Weighted Average Remaining Contractual Terms unvested and expected to vest RSUs Weighted Average Remaining Contractual Terms unvested and expected to vest RSUs Weighted Average Remaining Contractual Terms unvested and expected to vest at balance sheet date. Total 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 Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Vested in Period, Total Fair Value Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Vested in Period, Total Fair Value Accretable Yield [Table] Accretable Yield [Table] Accretable Yield [Table] Accretable Yield [Line Items] Accretable Yield [Line Items] Accretable Yield [Line Items] Accretable Yield Accretable Yield The excess of a loan's cash flows expected to be collected over the investor's initial investment in the loan. Certain Loans Acquired in Transfer Not Accounted for as Debt Securities, Accretable Yield, Accretion Certain Loans Acquired in Transfer Not Accounted for as Debt Securities, Accretable Yield, Accretion Accretable Yield Notes, Loans and Financing Receivable, Net Notes, Loans and Financing Receivable, Net Accrued Liabilities, Other Liabilities and Deferred Income Taxes [Abstract] Accrued Liabilities, Other Liabilities and Deferred Income Taxes [Abstract] Accrued Liabilities and Other Liabilities and Deferred Income Taxes [Text Block] Accrued Liabilities Other Liabilities and Deferred Income Taxes [Text Block] Schedule of accrued liabilities, other liabilities and deferred income taxes. Quarterly Financial Information [Text Block] Quarterly Financial Information [Text Block] Stock Incentive Plans [Abstract] Stock Incentive Plans [Abstract] Disclosure of Compensation Related Costs, Share-based Payments [Text Block] Disclosure of Compensation Related Costs, Share-based Payments [Text Block] Gains (Losses) Reclassified from Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) for Cash Flow Hedges Subsequently Pobable Not to Occur [Abstract] Gains (Losses) Reclassified from Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) for Cash Flow Hedges Subsequently Pobable Not to Occur [Abstract] Gain (Loss) on Discontinuation of Cash Flow Hedge Due to Forecasted Transaction Probable of Not Occurring, Net Gain (Loss) on Discontinuation of Cash Flow Hedge Due to Forecasted Transaction Probable of Not Occurring, Net Schedule of Guarantor Obligations [Table] Schedule of Guarantor Obligations [Table] Guarantor Obligations by Nature [Axis] Guarantor Obligations, Nature [Domain] Operating Leases [Member] A guarantee related to the operating leases residual value Ally Financial Commercial Loans [Member] Guarantee of Indebtedness of Others [Member] Supplier Commitments and Other Obligations [Member] Guarantee Type, Other [Member] Guarantees of Product Related Claims [Member] Guarantees of other product-related claims. Guarantor Obligations [line items] Guarantor Obligations [Line Items] Liability Recorded Guarantor Obligations, Current Carrying Value Maximum Liability Guarantees on Operating Leases, Termination Years Guarantees on Operating Leases, Termination Years Range of the termination years for guarantees on residual values of operating leases. Guarantees on Commercial Loans, Termination Years Guarantees on Commercial Loans, Termination Years Range of the termination years for guarantees on commercial loans made by related parties. Guarantees on Supplier Commitments and Other Obligations, Termination Years Guarantees on Supplier Commitments and Other Obligations, Termination Years Range of termination years for guarantees on supplier commitments and other obligations. Guarantees on Other Product Related Claims, Termination Years Guarantees on Other Product Related Claims, Termination Years Range of termination years for guarantees on other product related claims. Other contingencies [Abstract] Other contingencies [Abstract] Credit Card Redemption Liability Credit Card Redemption Liability Redemption liability recorded for credit card programs at the end of the reporting period. Credit Card Deferred Revenue Credit Card Deferred Revenue Deferred revenue associated with credit card programs recorded at the end of the reporting period. Product Liability Loss Contingency Accrual , Product Liability, Gross Environmental Liability Accrual for Environmental Loss Contingencies Other Litigation Liability Estimated Litigation Liability Environmental Liability Recorded in Accrued Liabilities Environmental Liability Recorded in Accrued Liabilities Environmental liability recorded in accrued liabilities line item at the balance sheet date. Credit Card Programs Available Rebate Credit Card Programs Available Rebate Rebate available associated with the credit card programs, net of deferred program revenue at the balance sheet date. Environmental Liabilities Footnote [Abstract] Environmental Liabilities [Abstract] Environmental Liabilities [Abstract] 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 Enrironmental 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. Enrironmental 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. Other Litigation Related Liability Footnote [Abstract] Other Litigation Related Liability Footnote [Abstract] Indirect Tax Escrow Deposit, Low Range Indirect Tax Escrow Deposit, Low Range The low range of indirect tax-related escrow deposit Indirect Tax Escrow Deposit, High Range Indirect Tax Escrow Deposit, High Range The high range of indirect tax-related escrow deposit. Korean Labor Litigation Liability - Korean Won Korean Labor Litigation Liability - Korean Won Korean labor litigation reserve in Korean Won recorded at the balance sheet date. Korean Labor Litigation Liability - US Dollar Korean Labor Litigation Liability - US Dollar Litigation reserve on Korean labor case recorded in US Dollar at the balance sheet date. Estimated Litigation Settlement Loss - Korean Won Estimated Litigation Settlement Loss - Korean Won Estimated litigation settlement loss in Korean Won at the balance sheet date. Estimated Litigation Settlement Loss - US Dollar Estimated Litigation Settlement Loss - US Dollar Estimated litigation settlement loss in US Dollar at the balance sheet date. Canadian Dealers Litigation Claims - CAD Canadian Dealers Litigation Claims - CAD Canadian dealers plantiff claims againest dealer wind down litigation Contribution Obligation for UAW Law Suit Contribution Obligation for UAW Law Suit Contribution obligation to New VEBA for UAW law suit Estimated Litigation Loss - UAW Law Suit Estimated Litigation Loss - UAW Law Suit Estimated litigation loss for UAW law suit Contingently Issuable Shares Footnote Contingently Issuable Shares Footnote General Unsecured Claims - Threshold General Unsecured Claims - Threshold The threshold of general unsecured claims against MLC at which additional shares of the comment stock is required to be issued. Estimated General Unsecured Claims Maximum Estimated General Unsecured Claims Maximum The level of estimated general unsecured claims at which the maximum Adjustment Shares are to be issued. Maximum Adjustment Shares Maximum Adjustment Shares The maximum adjustment shares issuable. Estimated General Unsecured Claims, Low Range Estimated General Unsecured Claims, Low Range Low end of the estimated general unsecured claims at the balance sheet date. Estimated General Unsecured Claims, Upper Range Estimated General Unsecured Claims, Upper Range The upper end of the estimated general unsecured claims at the balance sheet date. Planned Spending Guarantee Footnote [Abstract] Planned Spending Guarantee Footnote [Abstract] Planned Spending Guarantee - Euro Planned Spending Guarantee - Euro GME planned spending amount in Euro during the required period. Assets Pledged as Collateral Pledged Assets, Not Separately Reported, Other Asset Retirement Obligation [Abstract] Asset Retirement Obligation Asset Retirement Obligation Defined Benefit Plan, Estimated Future Employer Contributions in Next Fiscal Year, Description Defined Benefit Plan, Estimated Future Employer Contributions in Next Fiscal Year, Description Percentage of salaried pension assets Percentage of salaried pension assets Percentage of salaried pension assets Percentage of hourly pension assets Percentage of hourly pension assets Percentage of hourly pension assets expected return on assets for funding of salaried pension plans expected return on assets for funding of salaried pension plans An assumption as to the rate of return on plan assets reflecting the average rate of earnings expected on funds invested or to be invested to provide for the benefits included in the benefit obligation of salaried pension plans expected return on assets for funding of hourly pension plans expected return on assets for funding of hourly pension plans An assumption as to the rate of return on plan assets reflecting the average rate of earnings expected on funds invested or to be invested to provide for the benefits included in the benefit obligation of the hourly pension plans Defined Benefit Plan, Assumptions Used Calculating Net Periodic Benefit Cost, Expected Long-term Return on Assets Defined Benefit Plan, Assumptions Used Calculating Net Periodic Benefit Cost, Expected Long-term Return on Assets Schedule of Business Acquisitions, by Acquisition [Table] Schedule of Business Acquisitions, by Acquisition [Table] Business Disposal Consideration Received [Axis] Business Disposal Consideration Received by Type [Axis] Business Disposal Consideration Received [Domain] Business Disposal Consideration Received [Domain] Disposal group, total cash consideration [Member] Disposal group, total cash consideration [Member] Business Disposal, Cash Downpayment [Member] Business Disposal, Cash Downpayment [Member] Business Disposal, Non-cash Consideration [Member] Business Disposal, Non-cash Consideration [Member] Business Disposal, Liabilities assumed by Purchaser [Member] Business Disposal, Liabilities assumed by Purchaser [Member] Saab [Member] Saab [Member] Saab [Member] Business Acquisition [Line Items] Business Acquisition [Line Items] Deconsolidation, Gain (Loss), Amount Cost Method Investments, Fair Value Disclosure Cost Method Investments, Fair Value Disclosure Loans and Leases Receivable, Impaired, Commitment to Lend Loans and Leases Receivable, Impaired, Commitment to Lend Divestiture cash downpayment received Divestiture cash downpayment received Divestiture cash downpayment received Noncash consideration at face value Noncash consideration at face value Noncash consideration at face value before discount to fair value. Liabilities Assumed Liabilities Assumed Disposal Group, Including Discontinued Operation, Assets of Disposal Group Disposal group including discontinued operations, assets of disposal group Disposal group including discontinued operations, assets of disposal group Fair Value Assets Measured On Recurring Basis Unobservable Input Reconciliation [Table] Fair Value, Assets Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation [Table] Common and preferred stocks [Member] Government and agency debt securities [Member] Investment Funds [Member] Investment Funds [Member] Investment Funds [Member] Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items] Balance at the beginning of the period Purchases, Sales and Settlements, Net Defined Benefit Plan, Purchases, Sales, and Settlements Transfers Into/Out of Level 3 Defined Benefit Plan, Transfers Between Measurement Levels Exchange Rate Movements Defined Benefit Plan, Foreign Currency Exchange Rate Changes, Plan Assets Balance at the end of the period Change in Unrealized Gains (Losses) Attributable to Assets Held at Balance Sheet Date Change in Unrealized Gains (Losses) Attributable to Assets Held Change in Unrealized Gains (Losses) Attributable to Assets Held Exchange rate movements Proceeds Gain and Losses from Disposal of AFS Securities [Abstract] Proceeds Gain and Losses from Disposal of AFS Securities [Abstract] Schedule of Gain (Loss) on Investments [Table] Schedule of Gain (Loss) on Investments [Table] Gain (Loss) on Investments [Line Items] Gain (Loss) on Investments [Line Items] Available-for-sale Securities, Gross Realized Gains (Losses), Sale Proceeds Available-for-sale Securities, Gross Realized Gains (Losses), Sale Proceeds Available-for-sale Securities, Gross Realized Gains Available-for-sale Securities, Gross Realized Gains Available-for-sale Securities, Gross Realized Losses Available-for-sale Securities, Gross Realized Losses Letter of Credit [Abstract] Letter of Credit [Abstract] Schedule of Trading Securities and Other Trading Assets [Table] Schedule of Trading Securities and Other Trading Assets [Table] Schedule of Trading Securities and Other Trading Assets [Line Items] Schedule of Trading Securities and Other Trading Assets [Line Items] Letters of Credit Outstanding, Amount Letters of Credit Outstanding, Amount Valuation and Qualifying Accounts Disclosure [Table] Valuation and Qualifying Accounts Disclosure [Table] Valuation Allowances and Reserves Type [Axis] Valuation Allowances and Reserves Type [Axis] Valuation Allowances and Reserves [Domain] Valuation Allowances and Reserves [Domain] Allowance for Accounts and Notes Receivables [Member] Allowance for Accounts and Notes Receivables [Member] Allowance for Accounts and Notes Receivables [Member] Allowance for Other Accounts [Member] Allowance for Other Accounts [Member] Allowance for Other Accounts [Member] Valuation and Qualifying Accounts Disclosure [Line Items] Valuation and Qualifying Accounts Disclosure [Line Items] Balance at the Beginning of the Period Valuation Allowances and Reserves, Balance Additions Charged to Cost and Expense Valuation Allowances and Reserves, Charged to Cost and Expense Additions Charged to Other Accounts Valuation Allowances and Reserves, Charged to Other Accounts Deductions Valuation Allowances and Reserves, Deductions Effect of Fresh Start Reporting Effect of Fresh Start Reporting Amount recorded during the period associated with the adjustment related to the fresh start reporting of the company. Balance at the End of the Period Equity in income (loss) of and disposition of interest in nonconsolidated affiliates [Abstract] Equity in income (loss) of and disposition of interest in nonconsolidated affiliates [Abstract] Summarized financial information of Ally Financial [Table Text Block] Summarized financial information of Investee [Table Text Block] Summarized financial information of Investee [Table Text Block] Equity investment in Ally Financial [Table Text Block] Equity investment in investee [Table Text Block] Equity investment in investee [Table Text Block] Schedule of Equity Method Investments [Table Text Block] Schedule of Equity Method Investments [Table Text Block] Equity income [Table Text Block] equity income [Table Text Block] equity in income (loss) of and disposition of initerest in nonconsolidated affiliates Direct ownership of China JVs [Table Text Block] Direct ownership of China JVs [Table Text Block] Direct ownership of China JVs [Table Text Block] Equity Method Investments Disclosure [Text Block] Equity Method Investments Disclosure [Text Block] Transactions with nonconsolidated affiliates [Table Text Block] transactions with nonconsolidated affiliates [Table Text Block] transactions with nonconsolidated affiliates [Table Text Block] Level 3 Reconciliation Current Period [Abstract] Level 3 Reconciliation Current Period [Abstract] Fair Value, Inputs, Level 1 [Member] Fair Value, Inputs, Level 2 [Member] Fair Value, Inputs, Total [Member] Fair Value, Inputs, Total [Member] Fair Value, Inputs, Total [Member] Commodity Contract [Member] Interest Rate Swap Agreements - Assets Interest Rate Swap Agreements - Assets Value as of the balance sheet date of interest rate swap assets. Interest Rate Cap Agreements Purchased Interest Rate Cap Agreements Purchased Value as of the balance sheet date of interest rate cap assets. Fair Value, Measurement with Unobservable Inputs Reconciliations, Recurring Basis, Liability Value Fair Value, Measurement with Unobservable Inputs Reconciliations, Recurring Basis, Liability Value Total realized/unrealized gains (losses) Total realized/unrealized gains (losses) Total realized/unrealized gains (losses) Derivative Assets Derivative Assets Derivative Asset, Fair Value, Gross Asset Derivative Asset, Fair Value, Gross Asset Derivative Asset, Fair Value, Net Derivative Asset, Fair Value, Net Gains and (losses) in earnings attributable to the change in unrealized gains or (losses) relating to assets still held at the reporting date Gains and (losses) in earnings attributable to the change in unrealized gains or (losses) relating to assets still held at the reporting date Amount of total gains and (losses) in the period included in earnings attributable to the change in unrealized gains or (losses) relating to assets still held at the reporting date Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss) Recognized in Income, Net Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss) Recognized in Income, Net Fair Value, Measurement with Unobservable Inputs Reconciliation, Recurring Basis, Asset and Liability, Gain (Loss) Included in Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) Fair Value, Measurement with Unobservable Inputs Reconciliation, Recurring Basis, Asset and Liability, Gain (Loss) Included in Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) Fair Value, Measurement with Unobservable Inputs Reconciliation, Recurring Basis, Asset, Settlements Fair Value, Measurement with Unobservable Inputs Reconciliation, Recurring Basis, Asset, Settlements Fair Value, Measurement with Unobservable Inputs Reconciliation, Recurring Basis, Asset, Purchases, Sales, Issuances, Settlements Fair Value, Measurement with Unobservable Inputs Reconciliation, Recurring Basis, Asset, Purchases, Sales, Issuances, Settlements Derivative Financial Instruments, Liabilities, Fair Value Disclosure Derivative Financial Instruments, Liabilities, Fair Value Disclosure Derivative Liability, Fair Value, Gross Liability Derivative Liability, Fair Value, Gross Liability Fair Value, Measurement with Unobservable Inputs Reconciliation, Recurring Basis, Asset, Transfers, Net Fair Value, Measurement with Unobservable Inputs Reconciliation, Recurring Basis, Asset, Transfers, Net Interest Rate Swap Agreements - Liabilities Interest Rate Swap Agreements - Liabilities Value for interest rate swap liabilities at the balance sheeet date. Interest Rate Cap Agreements - Sold Interest Rate Cap Agreements - Sold Value of interest rate cap liabilities at the balance sheet date. Foreign currency contracts - liability Foreign currency contracts - liability Foreign currency contracts liability Foreign Currency Exchange Contracts Foreign Currency Exchange Contracts Foreign Currency Exchange Contracts Derivative Liabilities Derivative Liabilities Debtor-in-Possession Financings [Table] Debtor-in-Possession Financings [Table] Debtor-in-Possession Financings [Table] Funding received by lending agreement [Axis] Funding received before and during bankruptcy proceedings by individual lending agreement. Funding received by lending agreement [Domain] Funding received by lending agreement [Domain] UST pre-bankruptcy loan agreement [Member] UST pre-bankruptcy loan agreement [Member] EDC pre-bankruptcy loan agreement [Member] EDC pre-bankruptcy loan agreement [Member] DIP bankruptcy loan agreement [Member] DIP bankruptcy loan agreement with UST and EDC with a secured superpriority position granted to UST and EDC. (member) Debtor-in-Possession Financings [Line Items] Debtor-in-Possession Financings [Line Items] Date of borrowing Date of borrowing Date of borrowing for UST Credit Agreement entered into as a part of the reorganization. US Treasury Credit Agreement Government Credit Agreement Government Credit Agreement Debt maturity date Debt maturity date Debt maturity date for the UST Credit Agreement entered into on July 10, 2009. Warranty program borrowings Warranty program borrowings Warranty program borrowings from the UST. Funding and funding commitments Funding and funding commitments Funding and funding commitments during pre-bankruptcy period and bankruptcy period. Debt Instrument, Increase, Additional Borrowings Debt Instrument, Increase, Additional Borrowings Total borrowings pre-bankruptcy and in bankruptcy Total borrowings pre-bankruptcy and in bankruptcy Total borrowings pre-bankruptcy and in bankruptcy by indvidual lender. Funding from EDC funding from loan facility funding from loan facility. EDC commitment converted to equity Funding Commitments Converted To Equity Funding commitments converted to equity. UST Credit Agreement Debt Government Credit Agreement Debt Government Credit Agreement Debt balance after immediate paydown on day of debt assumption. VEBA Notes Benefit Trust Notes Benefit Trust Notes Canadian Loan Agreement Canadian Loan Agreement Canadian Loan Agreement Repayments of Debt Repayments of Debt Foreign currency gains (losses) [Table Text Block] foreign currency gains (losses) [Table Text Block] foreign currency gains (losses) [Table Text Block] Research and development [Table Text Block] research and development [Table Text Block] research and development [Table Text Block] Advertising expense [Table Text Block] advertising expense [Table Text Block] advertising expense [Table Text Block] Liabilities (receivables) recorded for residual support liabilities (receivables) recorded for residual support liabilities (receivables) recorded for residual support Maximum obligation for residual support Maximum obligation for residual support Maximum obligation for residual support Liabilities recorded for risk sharing Liabilities recorded for risk sharing Liabilities recorded for risk sharing Maximum obligation for risk sharing Maximum obligation for risk sharing Maximum obligation for risk sharing Maximum obligation for vehicle repurchase Maximum obligation for vehicle repurchase Maximum obligation for vehicle repurchase Fair value of vehicle repurchase obligation Fair value of vehicle repurchase obligation Fair value of vehicle repurchase obligation Favorable Adjustments to Residual and Risk Sharing Favorable Adjustments to Residual and Risk Sharing Favorable Adjustments to Residual and Risk Sharing U.S. Marketing incentives and operating lease residual payments U.S. Marketing incentives and operating lease residual payments U.S. Marketing incentives and operating lease residual payments Exclusivity fee income exclusivity fee income Exclusivity fee income Maximum unsecured obligation for service agreements with Ally Financial Maximum unsecured obligation for service agreements with investee Maximum unsecured obligation for service agreements with investee Maximum secured and unsecured exposure to Ally Financial Maximum secured and unsecured exposure to investee Maximum secured and unsecured exposure to investee Maximum exposure to Ally Financial as a percent of their capital Maximum exposure to investee as a percent of their capital Maximum exposure to investee as a percent of their capital Accounts and notes receivable, net from Ally Financial Accounts and notes receivable, net from investee Accounts and notes receivable, net from investee Other assets Ally Financial Other assets due from investee Other assets due from investee Accounts Payable Ally Financial Accounts Payable investee Accounts Payable investee Short term debt and current portion of long term debt Ally Financial short term debt and current portion of long term debt investee short term debt and current portion of long term debt investee Accrued liabilities and other liabilities Ally Financial Accrued liabilities and other liabilities investee Accrued liabilities and other liabilities investee Long term debt Ally Financial long term debt investee long term debt investee Other non-current liabilities Ally Financial other non-current liabilities investee other non-current liabilities investee Total net sales and revenue (decrease) with Ally Financial Total net sales and revenue (decrease) with investee Total net sales and revenue (decrease) with investee Automotive costs of sales and other automotive expenes with Ally Financial Automotive costs of sales and other automotive expenes with investee Automotive costs of sales and other automotive expenes with investee Interest income and other non-operating income, net with Ally Financial Interest income and other non-operating income, net with investee Interest income and other non-operating income, net with investee Automotive interest expense with Ally Financial Automotive interest expense with investee Automotive interest expense with investee Property, Plant and Equipment [Table Text Block] Property, Plant and Equipment [Table Text Block] Capitalized Interest [Table Text Block] Capitalized Interest [Table Text Block] Tabular disclosure of the amount of interest capitalized and excluded from interest expense. capitalized software [Table Text Block] capitalized software [Table Text Block] Tabular disclosure of capitalized costs of purchased software applications, net of amortization and capitalized costs to develop software for long-term internal use. DepreciationAmortizationAndImpairmentOnPropertyPlantAndEquipment [Table Text Block] DepreciationAmortizationAndImpairmentOnPropertyPlantAndEquipment [Table Text Block] Tabular disclosure of the amount of depreciation, amortization and impairment of property, plant and equipment directly related to goods produced and sold and services rendered by an entity during the reporting period. 6.75% $500 Million Senior Notes Due in June 2018 [Member] 6.75% $500 Million Senior Notes Due in June 2018 [Member] 8.5% Senior Notes Due in 2015 [Member] 8.5% Senior Notes Due in 2015 [Member] 0.75% Convertible Senior Notes Due in September 2011 [Member] 0.75% Convertible Senior Notes Due in September 2011 [Member] 2.125% Covertible Senior Notes Due in September 2013 [Member] 2.125% Covertible Senior Notes Due in September 2013 [Member] Repurchase Price of the Principal Amount of Notes Repurchase Price of the Principal Amount of Notes Repurchase Price of the Principal Amount of Notes Purchase Price Premium Purchase Price Premium Purchase Price Premium Debt Instrument, Maturity Date Debt Instrument, Maturity Date Conversion Payment on Convertible Senior Notes Conversion Payment on Convertible Senior Notes Conversion Payment on Convertible Senior Notes Proceeds from Senior Notes Proceeds from Senior Notes Proceeds from Senior Notes Amount of Principal for Senior Note Amount of Principal for Senior Note Amount of Principal for Senior Note Purchase Price Premium, Unamortized Purchase Price Premium, Unamortized Purchase Price Premium, Unamortized Amount of Convertible Senior Notes Repurchased Amount of Convertible Senior Notes Repurchased Amount of Convertible Senior Notes Repurchased Amount of Senior Notes Repurchased Amount of Senior Notes Repurchased Amount of Senior Notes Repurchased Carrying amount of investment in China JVs Carrying amount of investment in China JVs Carrying amount of investment in China JVs Carrying amount of investment in New Delphi Carrying amount of investment in Domestic Supplier Carrying amount of investment in domestic supplier affiliate Carrying amount of investment in other nonconsolidated affiliates Carrying amount of investment in other nonconsolidated affiliates Carrying amount of investment in other nonconsolidated affiliates Equity Method Investments Equity Method Investment, Difference Between Carrying Amount and Underlying Equity Equity Method Investment, Difference Between Carrying Amount and Underlying Equity Increase in basis related to carrying amount exceeded net assets Increase in basis related to carrying amount exceeded net assets Increase in basis related to carrying amount exceeded net assets Amount of increase in basis attributable to goodwill Amount of increase in basis attributable to goodwill Amount of increase in basis attributable to goodwill Amount of increase in basis attributable to intangibles Amount of increase in basis attributable to intangibles Amount of increase in basis attributable to intangibles Decrease in basis attributable to favorable loans Decrease in basis attributable to favorable loans Decrease in basis attributable to favorable loans Fair Value Measurements on a Recurring Basis [Abstract] Fair Value Measurements on a Recurring Basis [Abstract] Fair Values Derivatives, Balance Sheet Location, by Derivative Contract Type [Table] Fair Values Derivatives, Balance Sheet Location, by Derivative Contract Type [Table] Warrants [Member] Foreign Exchange [Member] Hedging Designation [Axis] Hedging Designation [Axis] Hedging Designation [Domain] Hedging Designation [Domain] Derivatives, Fair Value, by Balance Sheet Location [Axis] Balance Sheet Location [Domain] Total of Fair Value, Fair Value Disclosure [Member] Derivatives, Fair Value [Line Items] Derivatives, Fair Value [Line Items] 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 Plan, Change in Benefit Obligation [Roll Forward] Defined Benefit Plan, Change in Benefit Obligation [Roll Forward] Defined Benefit Plan, Benefit Obligation, Beginning Balance Defined Benefit Plan, Benefit Obligation Defined Benefit Plan, Service Cost Defined Benefit Plan, Service Cost Interest Cost Defined Benefit Plan, Interest Cost Contributions by Plan Participants Defined Benefit Plan, Contributions by Plan Participants Defined Benefit Plan, Plan Amendments Defined Benefit Plan, Plan Amendments Defined Benefit Plan, Actuarial Net (Gains) Losses Defined Benefit Plan, Actuarial Net (Gains) Losses Benefits Paid Defined Benefit Plan, Benefits Paid Defined Benefit Plan, Gross Prescription Drug Subsidy Receipts Received Defined Benefit Plan, Gross Prescription Drug Subsidy Receipts Received Defined Benefit Plan, Foreign Currency Translation Adjustment Defined Benefit Plan, Foreign Currency Exchange Rate Changes, Benefit Obligation Defined Benefit Plan, Divestitures Defined Benefit Plan, Divestitures, Benefit Obligation Defined Benefit Plan, Settlements Defined Benefit Plan, Settlements, Benefit Obligation Curtailments, settlements, and other Curtailments, settlements, and other For pension and OPEB plans the amount of increase or decrease in accumulated benefit obligation to the effect of 1) a settlement or curtailment, 2) special termination benefit, 3) plan expenses, 4) transfers in or out due to consolidation of subsidiaries, joint ventures, and VIE's. Defined Benefit Plan, Benefit Obligation, Ending Balance Defined Benefit Plan, Change in Fair Value of Plan Assets [Roll Forward] Defined Benefit Plan, Change in Fair Value of Plan Assets [Roll Forward] Fair Value of Plan Assets, Beginning Balance Actual Return on Plan Assets Defined Benefit Plan, Actual Return on Plan Assets Employer Contributions Defined Benefit Plan, Contributions by Employer Foreign Currency Translation Adjustments Divestitures Defined Benefit Plan, Divestitures, Plan Assets Settlements Defined Benefit Plan, Settlements, Plan Assets Other nonrecurring pension and other postretirement income or (expense) Other nonrecurring pension and other postretirement income or (expense) Other nonrecurring pension or other post retirement income or (expense) items in the period of an event that is infrequent in occurrance Fair Value of Plan Assets, Ending Balance Funded Status of Plan Defined Benefit Plan, Funded Status of Plan Amounts Recognized in Consolidated Balance Sheet [Abstract] Defined Benefit Plan, Amounts Recognized in Balance Sheet [Abstract] Non-current, Assets Defined Benefit Plan, Assets for Plan Benefits, Noncurrent Current Liabilities Pension and Other Postretirement Defined Benefit Plans, Current Liabilities Non-current Liabilities Pension and Other Postretirement Defined Benefit Plans, Liabilities, Noncurrent Net Amounts Recorded Defined Benefit Plan, Amounts Recognized in Balance Sheet Amount Recorded in Accumulated Other Income (Loss) [Abstract] Pension and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans, Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), before Tax [Abstract] Net Actuarial Gains (Losses) Pension and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans, Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net Gains (Losses), before Tax Net Prior Service Cost (Credit) Pension and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans, Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net Prior Service Cost (Credit), before Tax Total Recorded in Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) Pension and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans, Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), before Tax Defined Benefit Plan, Remeasurements [Abstract] Defined Benefit Plan, Remeasurements [Abstract] Defined Benefit Plan, Remeasurements [Abstract] Notes Issued Increase (Decrease) in Restricted Cash Defined Benefit Plan, Recognized Net (Gain) Loss Due to Settlements Interest Rate Swap [Member] Interest Rate Cap [Member] Derivative Financial Instruments, Assets [Member] Derivative Financial Instruments, Liabilities [Member] Restricted Cash - Derivative Collateral Restricted Cash - Derivative Collateral Restricted Cash - Derivative Collateral Notional Amount of Interest Rate Derivatives Notional Amount of Interest Rate Derivatives Fair Value Hedge Assets Fair Value Hedge Assets Derivative Asset, Notional Amount Derivative Asset, Notional Amount Fair Value Hedge Liabilities Fair Value Hedge Liabilities Notional Amount of Foreign Currency Derivatives Notional Amount of Foreign Currency Derivatives Derivative Liability, Notional Amount Derivative Liability, Notional Amount Accrued Liabilities and Other Liabilities and Deferred IncomeTaxes [Table Text Block] AccruedLiabilitiesOtherLiabilitiesandDeferredIncomeTaxes [Table Text Block] Tabular disclosure of the components of accrued liabilities, other liabilities and deferred income taxes. Policy Product Warranty And Recall Campaigns Liabilities [Table Text Block] PolicyProductWarrantyAndRecallCampaignsLiabilities [Table Text Block] Tabular disclosure of the components of policy, product warranty, recall campaigns and certified used vehicle warranty liabilities. Note 27. Stock Incentive Plans [Abstract] Note 27. Stock Incentive Plans [Abstract] Long-Term Incentive Plan [Member] Long-Term Incentive Plan [Member] Long-Term Incentive Plan [Member] RSUs at grant date fair value of our common stock in the year ended Operating cash flows with nonconsolidated affiliates Operating cash flows with nonconsolidated affiliates Operating cash flows with nonconsolidated affiliates Investing cash flows with nonconsolidated affiliates Investing cash flows with nonconsolidated affiliates Investing cash flows with nonconsolidated affiliates Consideration paid and allocation of price [Table] Consideration paid and allocation of price [Table] Consideration paid in cash and allocation of purchase price to assets and liabilities acquired. Acquisition Related Costs [Axis] Acquisition Related Costs [Axis] Acquisition Related Costs [Domain] Acquisition Related Costs [Domain] Costs paid by acquirer [Member] Costs paid by acquirer [Member] Costs paid by acquirer Costs paid by acquiree [Member] Costs paid by acquiree [Member] Costs paid by acquiree [Member] Consideration by owner class [Axis] Consideration by owner class. Consideration by owner class [Domain] Consideration by owner class [Domain] Common Shareholders [Member] Common Shareholders [Member] Warrant Holders [Member] Warrant Holders [Member] Employee equity compensation holders [Member] Employee equity compensation holders of options, SARS, Restricted Stock or other form of equity compensation [Member] Consideration paid and allocation of price [Line Items] Consideration paid and allocation of price [Line Items] Business Combination, Consideration Transferred Business Combination, Consideration Transferred Business Acquisition, Cost of Acquired Entity, Transaction Costs Business Acquisition, Cost of Acquired Entity, Transaction Costs Business Combination, Acquisition Related Costs Business Combination, Acquisition Related Costs Business Combination, Acquired Receivables, Gross Contractual Amount Business Combination, Acquired Receivables, Gross Contractual Amount Cash Acquired from Acquisition Business Acquisition, Purchase Price Allocation, Current Assets, Cash and Cash Equivalents Restricted Cash and Cash Equivalents Restricted Cash and Cash Equivalents Business Combination, Acquired Receivables, Fair Value Business Combination, Acquired Receivables, Fair Value Business Acquisition, Purchase Price Allocation, Other Noncurrent Assets Business Acquisition, Purchase Price Allocation, Other Noncurrent Assets Business Combination, Recognized Identifiable Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed, Financial Liabilities Business Combination, Recognized Identifiable Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed, Financial Liabilities Business Acquisition, Purchase Price Allocation, Other Noncurrent Liabilities Business Acquisition, Purchase Price Allocation, Other Noncurrent Liabilities Business Combination, Recognized Identifiable Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed, Net Business Combination, Recognized Identifiable Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed, Net Business Acquisition, Purchase Price Allocation, Goodwill Amount Business Acquisition, Purchase Price Allocation, Goodwill Amount Goodwill related to Deferred Tax Valuation Allowance Goodwill related to Deferred Tax Valuation Allowance Deferred tax valuation allowance component of goodwill that was recorded for tax basis differences outside of the acquired entity. Business Acquisition, Purchase Price Allocation, Assets Acquired (Liabilities Assumed), Net Business Acquisition, Purchase Price Allocation, Assets Acquired (Liabilities Assumed), Net Business Acquisition, Purchase Price Allocation, Goodwill, Expected Tax Deductible Amount Business Acquisition, Purchase Price Allocation, Goodwill, Expected Tax Deductible Amount Business Combination, Pro Forma Information, Earnings or Loss of Acquiree since Acquisition Date, Actual Business Combination, Pro Forma Information, Earnings or Loss of Acquiree since Acquisition Date, Actual Business Acquisition, Percentage of Voting Interests Acquired Business Acquisition, Cost of Acquired Entity, Purchase Price Business Acquisition, Cost of Acquired Entity, Purchase Price Business Combination, Pro Forma Information, Revenue of Acquiree since Acquisition Date, Actual Business Combination, Pro Forma Information, Revenue of Acquiree since Acquisition Date, Actual Business Acquisition, Pro Forma Revenue Business Acquisition, Pro Forma Revenue Business Acquisition, Pro Forma Income (Loss) from Continuing Operations before Changes in Accounting and Extraordinary Items, Net of Tax Business Acquisition, Pro Forma Income (Loss) from Continuing Operations before Changes in Accounting and Extraordinary Items, Net of Tax Line of Credit Facility [Table] Line of Credit Facility [Table] Medium-Term Note Facility [Member] Medium-Term Note Facility [Member] Canada Leasing Warehouse Facility [Member] Canada Leasing Warehouse Facility [Member] U.S. Lease Warehouse [Member] U.S. Lease Warehouse [Member] U.S. Lease Warehouse [Member] Line of Credit Facility Advances Outstanding [Member] Line of Credit Facility Advances Outstanding [Member] Line of Credit Facility Assets Pledged [Member] Line of Credit Facility Assets Pledged [Member] Line of Credit Faciltiy Restricted Cash Pledged [Member] Line of Credit Faciltiy Restricted Cash Pledged [Member] Line of Credit Facility [Line Items] Line of Credit Facility [Line Items] Amount of Cash Collected on Finance Receivables Pledged Excluded from Restricted Cash Pledged Amount of Cash Collected on Finance Receivables Pledged Excluded from Restricted Cash Pledged Amount of Cash Collected on Finance Receivables Pledged Excluded from Restricted Cash Pledged U.S. Lease Warehouse Facility U.S. Lease Warehouse Facility Amounts related to the U.S. Lease Warehouse Facility Canada Lease Warehouse Facility Canada Lease Warehouse Facility Amounts related to the Canada Lease Warehouse Facility Credit Facility Totals Credit Facility Totals Credit Facility Totals Line of Credit Facility, Expiration Date Line of Credit Facility, Expiration Date Notional Amount of Canada Lease Warehouse in Canadian Dollars Notional Amount of Canada Lease Warehouse in Canadian Dollars Notional Amount of Canada Lease Warehouse in Canadian Dollars Amount of Asset-Backed Securities Under the Bank Funding Facility Amount of Asset-Backed Securities Under the Bank Funding Facility Amount of Asset-Backed Securities Under the Bank Funding Facility Line of Credit Facility, Amount Outstanding Total Automotive Financing Debt Income Tax Expense (Benefit) [Abstract] Income Taxes Income Tax Disclosure [Text Block] GM Strasbourg [Member] GM Strasbourg [Member] GM Strasbourg [Member] Accounts, Notes, Loans and Financing Receivable by Receivable Type [Axis] Accounts, Notes, Loans and Financing Receivable by Receivable Type [Axis] Receivable Type [Domain] Receivable Type [Domain] Due from GM [Member] Due from GM [Member] Due from GM Business Acquisition, Purchase Price Allocation, Current Assets, Cash and Cash Equivalents Accounts Receivable, Related Parties, Current Business Acquisition, Purchase Price Allocation, Current Assets, Receivables Business Acquisition, Purchase Price Allocation, Current Assets, Receivables Business Acquisition, Purchase Price Allocation, Current Assets, Inventory Business Acquisition, Purchase Price Allocation, Current Assets, Inventory Business Acquisition, Purchase Price Allocation, Property, Plant and Equipment Business Acquisition, Purchase Price Allocation, Property, Plant and Equipment Business Acquisition, Purchase Price Allocation, Current Liabilities Business Acquisition, Purchase Price Allocation, Current Liabilities Gain on purchase of business Gain on Purchase of Business ABO and PBO [Line Items] ABO Defined Benefit Plan, Accumulated Benefit Obligation Plans with ABO in Excess of Plan Assets [Abstract] Defined Benefit Plan, Pension Plans with Accumulated Benefit Obligations in Excess of Plan Assets [Abstract] ABO Defined Benefit Plan, Pension Plans with Accumulated Benefit Obligations in Excess of Plan Assets, Aggregate Accumulated Benefit Obligation Fair Value of Plan Assets Defined Benefit Plan, Pension Plans with Accumulated Benefit Obligations in Excess of Plan Assets, Aggregate Fair Value of Plan Assets PBO Defined Benefit Plan, Plans with Benefit Obligations in Excess of Plan Assets, Aggregate Benefit Obligation Fair Value of Plan Assets Defined Benefit Plan, Plans with Benefit Obligations in Excess of Plan Assets, Aggregate Fair Value of Plan Assets Intangible Assets, net [Abstract] Intangible Assets, net [Abstract] Schedule of Finite-Lived Intangible Assets by Major Class [Table] Schedule of Finite-Lived Intangible Assets by Major Class [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] Other [Member] Other Intangible Assets [Member] Intangible Assets [Line Items] Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items] Weighted-Average Remaining Amortization Period Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Weighted-Average Useful Life 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 gorss amounts of all intangible assets, excluding goodwill. Total Accumulated Amortization Accumulated Amortization Intangible Assets, Total The total accumulated amount of amortization of the intangible assets at the period end. Total Intangible Assets, Net Intangible Assets, Net (Excluding Goodwill) Amortization Expense Related to Intangible Assets Amortization of Intangible Assets Future Amortization Expense [Abstract] Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Future Amortization Expense [Abstract] 2012 Future Amortization Expense, Year One 2013 Future Amortization Expense, Year Two 2014 Future Amortization Expense, Year Three 2015 Future Amortization Expense, Year Four 2016 Future Amortization Expense, Year Five Statement of Financial Position [Abstract] ASSETS Assets [Abstract] Cash and cash equivalents Marketable securities Marketable Securities, Current Restricted cash and marketable securities Accounts and notes receivable Inventories Inventory, Net Equipment on operating leases, net Property Subject to or Available for Operating Lease, Net Other current assets and deferred income taxes Other Assets, Current Total current assets Assets, Current Restricted cash and marketable securities Property, net Goodwill Intangible assets, net Total non-current assets Assets, Noncurrent Finance receivables, net Loans and Leases Receivable, Net Reported Amount Restricted cash Restricted Cash and Investments Other assets Other Assets Total Assets Assets LIABILITIES AND EQUITY Liabilities and Equity [Abstract] Short-term debt and current portion of long-term debt Debt, Current Accrued liabilities 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 Total non-current liabilities Liabilities, Noncurrent Securitization notes payable (Note 17) Securitized Debt Obligation Liability Current and noncurrent securitized debt issued by securitization trusts to third-party investors accounted for as secured borrowings. Such obligations are secured by restricted loans for securitization investors. Credit facilities Other liabilities Other Liabilities Total Liabilities Liabilities Liabilities [Abstract] Liabilities [Abstract] Commitments and contingencies (Note 20) Commitments and Contingencies Equity Stockholders' Equity, Including Portion Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest [Abstract] Preferred stock Preferred Stock, Number of Shares, Par Value and Other Disclosures [Abstract] Preferred stock Preferred Stock, Value, Issued Common stock Common Stock, Value, Issued Capital surplus (principally additional paid-in capital) Additional Paid in Capital Retained earnings Retained Earnings (Accumulated Deficit) Total stockholders' equity Stockholders' Equity Attributable to Parent Noncontrolling interests Stockholders' Equity Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest Total Equity Total Liabilities and Equity Liabilities and Equity Segment Reporting Segment Reporting Disclosure [Text Block] Schedule of Property Subject to or Available for Operating Lease [Table Text Block] Schedule of Property Subject to or Available for Operating Lease [Table Text Block] Schedule Of Operating Lease Depreciation Expense [Table Text Block] ScheduleOfOperatingLeaseDepreciationExpense [Table Text Block] Schedule of Equipment on operating lease depreciation expense and impairment expense. Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Nonrecurring Basis [Table Text Block] Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Nonrecurring Basis [Table Text Block] Schedule of Future Minimum Rental Payments for Operating Leases [Table Text Block] Schedule of Future Minimum Rental Payments for Operating Leases [Table Text Block] Gains and (Losses) on Derivatives [Abstract] Gains and (Losses) on Derivatives [Abstract] Gain (Loss) on Derivatives [Member] Other Income [Member] Interest Income and Other Non-operating Income, Net [Member] Interest Income and Other Non-operating Income, Net [Member] Revenue, Net Interest Expense Interest Expense on Interest Rate Swap Interest Expense on Interest Rate Swap Other Nonoperating Income (Expense) Other Nonoperating Income (Expense) Derivative, Gain (Loss) on Derivative, Net Derivative, Gain (Loss) on Derivative, Net Cost of Goods Sold Cost of Goods Sold Other Nonoperating Income Other Nonoperating Income Level 3 input [Member] Level 3 input [Member] Level 3 input [Member] Money market funds classified as other assets and restricted cash Money market funds classified as other assets and restricted cash Money market funds classified as other assets and restricted cash Interest and Other Income [Table Text Block] Intangible Assets, Net (Excluding Goodwill) [Abstract] Intangible Assets, Net Intangible Assets Disclosure [Text Block] Cash Flow, Supplemental Disclosures [Text Block] Cash Flows Supplemental Disclosures [Text Block] Cash Flows Supplemental Disclosures related to cash transactions only [Text Block] Automotive sales and revenue with nonconsolidated affiliates Automotive sales and revenue with nonconsolidated affiliates Automotive sales and revenue with nonconsolidated affiliates Automotive purchases, net with nonconsolidated affiliates Automotive purchases, net with nonconsolidated affiliates Automotive purchases, net with nonconsolidated affiliates Automotive SG&A with nonconsolidated affiliates Automotive SG&A with nonconsolidated affiliates Automotive SG&A with nonconsolidated affiliates Automotive interest expense with nonconsolidated affiliates Automotive interest expense with nonconsolidated affiliates Automotive interest expense with nonconsolidated affiliates Automotive interest income and other non-operating income, net Automotive interest income and other non-operating income, net Automotive interest income and other non-operating income, net Automotive Short-term and Long-term Debt [Abstract] Automotive Short-term and Long-term Debt [Abstract] Schedule of Short-term and Long-term Debt [Table] Schedule of Short-term and Long-term Debt [Table] Schedule of Short-term and Long-term Debt [Table] Short-term Debt, Type [Axis] Short-term Debt, Type [Domain] Other Short-term and Current Long-term Debt [Member] Carrying amount of other debt obligations due within one year as of the end of the reporting period. Capital Lease Obligations [Member] Other Long-term Debt [Member] Carrying amount of other long-term debt obligations as of the end of the reporting period. Short-term Debt [Member] Long-term Debt [Member] Loans Payable [Member] Short-term and Long-term Debt [Line Items] Short-term and Long-term Debt [Line Items] Short-term and Long-term Debt [Line Items] Interest Accrued or Paid Line of credit facility, remaining borrowing capacity Line of Credit Facility, Remaining Borrowing Capacity Debt, Current Long-term Debt and Capital Lease Obligations Total Automotive Debt Debt Instrument, Fair Value Disclosure Debt Instrument, Fair Value Disclosure Long-term Interest Rate Range Long-term Interest Rate Range Long-term Interest Rate Range including the minimum and maximum on one line Interest Rate Range on Automotive Debt, Minimum Debt Instrument, Interest Rate, Stated Percentage Rate Range, Minimum Interest Rate Range on Automotive Debt, Maximum Debt Instrument, Interest Rate, Stated Percentage Rate Range, Maximum Short-term Debt, Weighted Average Interest Rate Short-term Debt, Weighted Average Interest Rate Long-term Debt, Weighted Average Interest Rate Long-term Debt, Weighted Average Interest Rate Fresh-Start Adjustments [Table] Fresh-Start Adjustments [Table] Debt conversion gains by creditor [Axis] Debt conversion gains by creditor [Axis] Creditors in Reorganization [Domain] Creditors group during Reorganizaiton [Domain] Fresh-Start Adjustments, Type of Fresh-Start Adjustment [Axis] Fresh-Start Adjustments, Type of Fresh-Start Adjustment [Axis] Type of Fresh-Start Adjustment [Domain] Type of Fresh-Start Adjustment [Domain] Fresh-Start Adjustment [Line Items] Fresh-Start Adjustment [Line Items] Aggregate change in net assets from fresh start reporting Aggregate change in net assets from fresh start reporting Aggregate change in net assets from fresh start reporting. Loss on Extinguishment of Secured Revolving Credit Facility Loss on Extinguishment of Secured Revolving Credit Facility Loss on Extinguishment of Secured Revolving Credit Facility during bankruptcy proceedings. securities issued in exchange for debt securities issued in exchange for debt Fair value of securities issued in exchange for debt as a part of the plan of reorganization under Section 363 of the Bankruptcy Code. Gain from conversion of debt to equity in reorganization Gain from conversion of debt to equity in reorganization Gain from conversion of debt to equity in reorganization Debtor Reorganization Items, Retiree OPEB Obligation Gains Debtor Reorganization Items, Retiree OPEB Obligation Gains Debtor Reorganization Items, Retiree OPEB Obligation Gains from Chapter 11 Proceedings Debtor Reorganization Items, Retiree Pension Benefit Gains Debtor Reorganization Items, Retiree Pension Benefit Gains Gains resulting from restructuring terms of pension obligations as a part of the Chapter 11 proceedings. Gain on 363 sale from net liability settlement Gain on 363 sale from net liability settlement Gain on 363 sale from net liability settlement of amounts with MLC. Deferred tax allowance release due reorganization activities Deferred tax allowance release due reorganization activities Deferred tax allowance release due reorganization activities debtor reorganization items, miscellaneous charges debtor reorganization items, miscellaneous charges Debtor reorganization items, miscellaneous charges relating to the Section 363 Sale. Fresh Start and 363 Sale Net Gains Fresh Start and 363 Sale Net Gains Fresh Start and 363 Sale Net Gains excluding payment of professional fees, losses on contract rejections and certain losses from repayment of a secured revolving credit facility. Income tax benefit from reorganization and fresh start adjustments Income tax benefit from reorganization and fresh start adjustments Income tax benefit from reorganization and fresh start adjustments. Debtor Reorganization Items, Other Expense (Income) Debtor Reorganization Items, Other Expense (Income) Reorganization Items Reorganization Items Losses from Contract Rejections, Settlement of Clains and Lease Terminations Losses from Contract Rejections, Settlement of Clains and Lease Terminations Losses from Contract Rejections, Settlement of Clains and Lease Terminations Nondebtor Reorganization Items, Legal and Advisory Professional Fees Nondebtor Reorganization Items, Legal and Advisory Professional Fees Release of Accumulated OCI in Reorganization Release of Accumulated OCI in Reorganization Release of Accumulated OCI in associated with previously designated derivative financial instruments as hedging items due to reorganization activities. Marketable Securities Gains and Losses & Fair Value [Abstract] Marketable Securities Gains and Losses & Fair Value [Abstract] Schedule of Available-for-sale Securities, Major Types of Debt and Equity Securities [Axis] Major Types of Debt and Equity Securities [Domain] Schedule of Trading Securities and Other Trading Assets, Major Types of Trading Securities and Assets [Axis] Major Types of Trading Securities and Assets [Domain] Common and preferred securities Debt Securities [Member] Gain (Loss) on Investments by Category [Axis] Gain (Loss) on Investments by Category [Axis] Gain (Loss) on Investments, Including Marketable Securities and Investments Held at Cost, Categories of Investments [Domain] Gain (Loss) on Investments, Including Marketable Securities and Investments Held at Cost, Categories of Investments [Domain] Available-for-sale Securities, Amortized Cost Basis Available-for-sale Securities, Amortized Cost Basis Available-for-sale Securities, Gross Unrealized Gains Available-for-sale Securities, Gross Unrealized Gains Available-for-sale Securities, Gross Unrealized Losses Available-for-sale Securities, Gross Unrealized Losses Other than Temporary Impairment Losses, Investments, Available-for-sale Securities Other than Temporary Impairment Losses, Investments, Available-for-sale Securities Available-for-sale Securities, Fair Value Disclosure Trading Securities, Cost Trading Securities, Cost Marketable Securities, Cost Marketable Securities, Cost This total item represents a parenthetical disclosure for the cost of securities classified as available for sale and trading. Trading Securities, Unrealized Holding Gain Trading Securities, Unrealized Holding Gain Trading Securities, Unrealized Holding Loss Trading Securities, Unrealized Holding Loss Trading Securities, Fair Value Disclosure Trading Securities, Fair Value Disclosure Unrealized Gain on Securities Unrealized Gain on Securities Unrealized Loss on Securities Unrealized Loss on Securities Marketable Securities, Current Statement, Operating Activities Segment [Axis] Segment, Operating Activities [Domain] Corporate Elimination [Member] Corporate Elimination [Member] Corporate [Member] Represents the Corporate region for segment consolidation. Intersegment Elimination [Member] Statement, Geographical [Axis] Segment, Geographical [Domain] North America - U.S. [Member] North America - U.S. [Member] Represents the United States in North America for the Automotive section disclosure. North America - Canada And Mexico [Member] Canada And Mexico [Member] Represents the Canadian and Mexican in North America region for the Automotive section disclosure. GM Financial - US [Member] GM Financial - US [Member] Represents the United States region for GM Financial Disclosure GM Financial - Canada [Member] Canada [Member] Represents the Canadian region for the GM Financial disclosure. France [Member] Represents French region for the disclosure. Germany [Member] Represents German region for the disclosure. Italy [Member] Represents Italian region for the disclosure. Spain [Member] Represents Spanish region for the disclosure. United Kingdom [Member] Represents the United Kingdom region for the disclosure. Other European Countries [Member] Represents the other European countries not separately disclosed. Korea [Member] Represents the Korean region for the disclosure. Thailand [Member] Represents the Thai region for the disclosure. Other Asian Countries [Member] Represents the other Asian countries not separately disclosed. Argentina [Member] Represents the Argentine region for the disclosure. Brazil [Member] Represents the Brazilian region for the disclosure. Venezuela [Member] Represents the Venezuelan region for the disclosure. Other South American Countries [Member] Represents the other South American countries not separately disclosed. All Other Geographic Locations [Member] Represents all other geographic locations not separately disclosed. U.S. [Member] U.S. [Member] Represents United States region for disclosure Non-U.S. [Member] Represents all regions excluding the United States for the disclosure. Segment Reporting Information [Line Items] Revenue and others for Reportable Segment [Abstract] Segment Reporting Information, Revenue for Reportable Segment [Abstract] External customers Revenue from External Customers GM Financial revenue Intersegment 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 Adjustments. Corporate interest income Investment Income, Interest 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 Expenditures for property Segment Reporting Information, Expenditures for Additions to Long-Lived Assets Depreciation, amortization and impairment of long-lived assets and finite-lived intangible assets DepreciationAmortizationAndImpairmentOfLongLivedAssetsAndFiniteLivedIntangibleAssets The aggregate expense recognized in the current period that allocates the cost of tangible assets and intangible assets to periods that benefit from use of the assets. Income (Loss) from Equity Method Investments Income (Loss) from Equity Method Investments Equity Income Loss and Gain on Disposal of Investments Significant noncash charges (gains) [Abstract] Significantnoncash charges (gains) [Abstract] Impairment charges related to long-lived assets Other Asset Impairment Charges Reversal of valuation allowances against deferred tax assets Impairment Charges Related To Equipment On Operating Leases Impairment Charges Related To Equipment On Operating Leases The aggregate expense recognized in the current period that represents the impairment of equipment on operating leases. Net Contingent Adjustment Shares Net Contingent Adjustment Shares The amount of the gain recorded as a result of the reversal of the contingent share liability during the reporting period. Contingent Adjustment Shares Contingent Adjustment Share The expense recorded associated with the accrual of the contingent share liability during the reporting period. Gain On Extinguishment of Debt Gain On Extinguishment of Debt The amount of gain recorded associated with extinguishment of debt during the reporting period. Loss On Extinguishment of UST Ally Financial Loan Loss On Extinguishment of Government Loan The expense recorded associated with the extinguishment of the Government Loan loan during the reporting period. Loss on extinguishment of debt loss on extinguishment of debt The amount of loss recorded associated with the extinguishment of debt during the reporting period. Gain on conversion of UST Ally Financial Loan Gain On Conversation Of Government Loan The amount of the gain recorded on the conversion of government loan during the reporting period. Reorganization Non-Cash Gains Net Gain on sale of New Delphi Class A membership interest Gain On Sale Of Nexteer Gain On Sale Of Saab Gain On Sale Of Investment The amount of the gain recorded due to the sale of Saab. Gain on sale of Ally preferred stock HCT Settlement Gain Impairment charges related to goodwill Impairment Charges Related To Goodwill The aggregate expense recognized in the current period that represents the impairment of goodwill in specific regions. Impairment charges related to Ally Financial common stock Impairment Charges Related To Investee Common Stock The aggregate expense recognized in the current period that represents the impairment of investee common stock. Gain On Acquisition Of GMS UAW OPEB healthcare settlement Healthcare Settlement The aggregate expense recognized in the current period assoicated with the settlement agreement of a healthcare plan. Charges related to Delphi Impairment charges related to investment in HKJV Total significant noncash charges (gains) Segment Reporting Information, Significant Noncash Items Other than Depreciation, Depletion, and Amortization Expense Segments, Geographical Areas [Abstract] Net sales and revenue Long-Lived Assets Long-Lived Assets Short-Term and Long-Term Debt Automotive [Abstract] Short-Term and Long-Term Debt Automotive [Abstract] Schedule of Debt [Table Text Block] Schedule of Debt [Table Text Block] Components of Interest Expense Related To Contingent Convertible Debt [Table Text Block] Components of Interest Expense Related To Contingent Convertible Debt [Table Text Block] Components of Interest Expense Related To Contingent Convertible Debt [Table Text Block] Interest Expense [Table Text Block] Interest Expense [Table Text Block] Interest Expense [Table Text Block] Debt by Collateral Type [Table Text Block] Debt by Collateral Type [Table Text Block] Debt by Collateral Type [Table Text Block] Schedule of Maturities of Long-term Debt [Table Text Block] Schedule of Maturities of Long-term Debt [Table Text Block] Uncertain Tax Positions [Table] Uncertain Tax Positions [Table] Uncertain Tax Positions [Table] Unrecognized Tax Benefits [Line Items] Unrecognized Tax Benefits [Line Items] Unrecognized Tax Benefits [Line Items] Unrecognized Tax Benefits that Would Impact Effective Tax Rate Unrecognized Tax Benefits that Would Impact Effective Tax Rate Unrecognized Tax Benefits Resulting in Net Operating Loss Carryforward Unrecognized Tax Benefits Resulting in Net Operating Loss Carryforward Unrecognized Tax Benefits Interest On IncomeTaxes Accrued gm_UnrecognizedTaxBenefitsInterestOnIncomeTaxesAccrued1 gm_UnrecognizedTaxBenefitsInterestOnIncomeTaxesAccrued1 Unrecognized Tax Benefits Income Tax Penalties Accrued us-gaap_UnrecognizedTaxBenefitsIncomeTaxPenaltiesAccrued This element represents the amount of statutory penalties accrued as of the date of the statement of financial position for a tax position claimed or expected to be claimed by the entity, in its tax return, that does not meet the minimum statutory threshold to avoid payment of penalties. Unrecognized Tax Benefits Interest On Income Taxes Accrued us-gaap_UnrecognizedTaxBenefitsInterestOnIncomeTaxesAccrued This element represents the amount of interest expense accrued as of the date of the statement of financial position for an underpayment of income taxes computed by applying the applicable statutory rate of interest to the difference between a tax position recognized for financial reporting purposes and the amount previously taken or expected to be taken in a tax return of the entity. Income Tax Examination Interest Income gm_IncomeTaxExaminationInterestIncome This element represents interest income recognized for an overpayment of income taxes computed by applying the applicable statutory rate of interest to the difference between a tax position recognized for financial reporting purposes and the amount previously taken or expected to be taken in a tax return of the entity. Income Tax Examination Interest Expense gm_IncomeTaxExaminationInterestExpense This element represents interest expense recognized for an underpayment of income taxes computed by applying the applicable statutory rate of interest to the difference between a tax position recognized for financial reporting purposes and the amount previously taken or expected to be taken in a tax return of the entity. Income Tax Examination Penalties Expense gm_IncomeTaxExaminationPenaltiesExpense This element represents the recognized expense for the amount of statutory penalties in the period in which the entity claims or expects to claim a tax position, in its tax return, that does not meet the minimum statutory threshold to avoid payment of penalties or, if not recognizing the expense in the period in which the tax return was initially filed, the expense is generally recognized in the period in which the enterprise's judgment about meeting the minimum statutory threshold changes. US Canadian Transfer Pricing Resolution-Tax TransferPricingResolution-Tax Amount of tax benefit related to a domestic/foreign Transfer pricing resolution. US Canadian Transfer Pricing Resolution-Interest TransferPricingResolution-Interest Amount of interest benefit related to a domestic and foreign Transfer pricing resolution. Mexican Tax Assessment ForeignTaxAssessment Total amount of tax, interest, and penalties related to foreign tax assessment. Canadian Tax Resolution ForeignTaxResolution Total amount of tax and interest benefit resulting from resolution with foreign government. Brazilian Income Tax Settlement ForeignIncomeTaxSettlement Amount related to settlement of Foreign income tax matter. Resolution Of Uncertain Tax Positions In Full VA Jurisdictions gm_ResolutionOfUncertainTaxPositionsInFullVAJurisdictions Amount related to resolution of uncertain tax positions in jurisdictions with a full valuation allowance. Reconciliation of Unrecognized Tax Benefits, Excluding Amounts Pertaining to Examined Tax Returns [Roll Forward] Reconciliation of Unrecognized Tax Benefits, Excluding Amounts Pertaining to Examined Tax Returns [Roll Forward] Unrecognized Tax Benefits - Beginning Balance Unrecognized Tax Benefits Unrecognized Tax Benefits, Increases Resulting from Current Period Tax Positions Unrecognized Tax Benefits, Increases Resulting from Current Period Tax Positions Unrecognized Tax Benefits, Increases Resulting from Prior Period Tax Positions Unrecognized Tax Benefits, Increases Resulting from Prior Period Tax Positions Unrecognized Tax Benefits, Decreases Resulting from Current Period Tax Positions Unrecognized Tax Benefits, Decreases Resulting from Current Period Tax Positions Unrecognized Tax Benefits, Decreases Resulting from Prior Period Tax Positions Unrecognized Tax Benefits, Decreases Resulting from Prior Period Tax Positions Unrecognized Tax Benefits, Reductions Resulting from Lapse of Applicable Statute of Limitations Unrecognized Tax Benefits, Reductions Resulting from Lapse of Applicable Statute of Limitations Unrecognized Tax Benefits, Decreases Resulting from Settlements with Taxing Authorities Unrecognized Tax Benefits, Decreases Resulting from Settlements with Taxing Authorities Unrecognized Tax Benefits Other gm_UnrecognizedTaxBenefitsOther This element represents a sum total of additions or reductions to reserves not separately reflected in the tabular roll for the period. Unrecognized Tax Benefits - Ending Balance Advertising Expense Advertising Expense Research and Development Expense Research and Development Expense U.S. employees represented by union U.S. employees represented by union U.S. employees represented by union Percent of U.S. employees in a union Percent of U.S. employees in a union Percent of U.S. employees in a union U.S. employees represented by the UAW U.S. employees represented by the UAW U.S. employees represented by the UAW 2011 Lump sum payment to each UAW employee 2011 Lump sum payment to each UAW employee 2011 Lump sum payment to each UAW employee Lump sum payments to UAW employees in 2012, 2013 and 2014 Lump sum payments to UAW employees in 2012, 2013 and 2014 Lump sum payments to UAW employees in 2012, 2013 and 2014 Total lump sum payments to UAW employees Total lump sum payments to UAW employees Total lump sum payments to UAW employees Foreign Currency Transaction Gain (Loss), before Tax Foreign Currency Transaction Gain (Loss), before Tax 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 Schedule of Employee Service Share-based Compensation, Allocation of Recognized Period Costs [Table] Schedule of Employee Service Share-based Compensation, Allocation of Recognized Period Costs [Table] Schedule of Employee Service Share-based Compensation, Allocation of Recognized Period Costs, by Report Line [Axis] Schedule of Employee Service Share-based Compensation, Allocation of Recognized Period Costs, by Report Line [Axis] Employee Service Share-based Compensation, Allocation of Recognized Period Costs, Report Line [Domain] Employee Service Share-based Compensation, Allocation of Recognized Period Costs, Report Line [Domain] Employee Service Share-based Compensation, Allocation of Recognized Period Costs [Line Items] Employee Service Share-based Compensation, Allocation of Recognized Period Costs [Line Items] Allocated Share-based Compensation Expense Allocated Share-based Compensation Expense HCT [Axis] HCT [Axis] HCT [Axis] HCT [Domain] HCT [Domain] HCT [Domain] Restricted cash [Member] Restricted cash [Member] Restricted cash [Member] Notes Payable, Other Payables [Member] Notes Payable, Other Payables [Member] Pension Plans, Defined Benefit [Member] Defined Benefit Plan, Contributions by Employer Defined Benefit Plan, Contributions by Plan Participants Other Postretirement Benefits Payments Other Postretirement Benefits Payments Defined Contribution Plan, Cost Recognized Defined Contribution Plan, Cost Recognized Pension, Employer contribution non cash [Abstract] Pension, Employer contribution non cash [Abstract] Pension, Employer contribution non cash [Abstract] Stock Issued During Period, Value Employee Benefit Plan (funding) Stock Issued During Period, Value Employee Benefit Plan (funding) Fair value for funding purposes of shares issued during the period to an employee benefit plan Stock Issued During Period, Value, Employee Benefit Plan General Discussion of Pension and Other Postretirement Benefits [Abstract] General Discussion of Pension and Other Postretirement Benefits [Abstract] Defined Benefit Plan Settlement benefit obligation payment Defined Benefit Plan Settlement benefit obligation payment The amount of payment that relates to an irrevocable action that relieves the employer (or the plan) of primary responsibility for a benefit obligation and eliminates significant risk related to the obligation. Defined Benefit Plan, Estimated Future Benefit Payments [Abstract] Defined Benefit Plan, Estimated Future Benefit Payments [Abstract] Defined Benefit Plan, Estimated Future Employer Contributions in Next Fiscal Year Defined Benefit Plan, Estimated Future Employer Contributions in Next Fiscal Year Fair value of Derivatives [Abstract] Fair value of Derivatives [Abstract] Other Current Assets [Member] Other Current Assets [Member] Other Noncurrent Assets [Member] Other Noncurrent Assets [Member] Other Current Liabilities [Member] Other Current Liabilities [Member] Other Noncurrent Liability [Member] Other Noncurrent Liability [Member] Notional Amount of Derivatives Notional Amount of Derivatives Derivative Assets Other Derivatives Not Designated as Hedging Instruments Assets at Fair Value Derivative Assets, Current Derivative Liabilities Other Derivatives Not Designated as Hedging Instruments Liabilities at Fair Value Derivative Liabilities, Current Schedule of Restricted Cash and Marketable Securities [Table Text Block] Schedule of Restricted Cash and Marketable Securities [Table Text Block] Tabular disclosure of the cash, cash equivalents and investments which are restricted as to withdrawal or usage. The provisions of any restrictions are described in a note to the financial statements. Schedule of Restricted Cash and Cash Equivalents [Table Text Block] Schedule of Restricted Cash and Cash Equivalents [Table Text Block] Deferred income tax assets and liabilities [Table] Deferred Income Tax Assets and Liabilities [Table] Deferred Income Tax Assets and Liabilities [Table] Expiration date [Axis] Expiration date [Axis] Expiration Date [Domain] Expiration Date [Domain] Years 2012 to 2030 [Member] Represents the range of years in which tax carryforward attribute will expire, this range is 2012 - 2030. Indefinite [Member] Represents the period in which tax carryforward attribute will expire, this period is indefinite. Years 2017 to 2031 [Member] Years 2017 to 2031 [Member] Represents the range of years in which tax carryforward attribute will expire, this range is 2017 - 2031. Years 2012 to 2031 [Member] Years 2012 to 2031 [Member] Represents the range of years in which tax carryforward attribute will expire, this range is 2012 - 2031. Years 2012 to 2021 [Member] Represents the range of years in which tax carryforward attribute will expire, this range is 2012 - 2021. Jurisdiction [Axis] Jurisdiction [Axis] Jurisdiction [Domain] Jurisdiction [Domain] Deferred income tax assets and liabilities [Line Items] Deferred income tax assets and liabilities [Line Items] Deferred Tax Assets, Tax Deferred Expense, Compensation and Benefits, Postretirement Benefits Deferred Tax Assets, Tax Deferred Expense, Compensation and Benefits, Postretirement Benefits Deferred Tax Assets, Tax Deferred Expense, Compensation and Benefits, Pensions Deferred Tax Assets, Tax Deferred Expense, Compensation and Benefits, Pensions DeferredTaxAssetsWarrantiesAllowancesClaimsDiscounts DeferredTaxAssetsWarrantiesAllowancesClaimsDiscounts The tax effect as of the balance sheet date of the amount of estimated future tax deductions arising from warranty costs, which can only be deducted for tax purposes when actual costs are incurred, and which can only be realized if sufficient tax-basis income is generated in future periods to enable the deduction to be taken. DeferredTaxAssetsPropertyPlantEquipment DeferredTaxAssetsPropertyPlantEquipment The amount as of the balance sheet date of the estimated future tax effects attributable to the difference between the tax basis of capital assets and the basis of capital assets computed in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles. Capital assets include but are not limited to assets such as land, real estate, leasehold improvements, machinery and equipment and furniture and fixtures. DeferredTaxAssetsCapitalizedResearchExpenditures DeferredTaxAssetsCapitalizedResearchExpenditures The tax effect as of the balance sheet date of the amount of the estimated future tax deductions attributable to research and development costs that are expensed in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles but capitalized for income tax purposes. DeferredTaxAssetsTaxCarryforwards DeferredTaxAssetsTaxCarryforwards The tax effect as of the balance sheet date of the amount of future tax deductions arising from tax carryforwards and which can only be utilized if sufficient tax-basis income is generated in future periods and providing tax laws continue to allow utilization. DeferredTaxAssetsMiscUS DeferredTaxAssetsMiscUS The tax effect as of the balance sheet date of the amount of estimated future taxable income / deductions arising from other temporary differences not otherwise specified in the taxonomy for U.S. jurisdictions. DeferredTaxAssetsMiscNonUS DeferredTaxAssetsMiscNonUS The tax effect as of the balance sheet date of the amount of estimated future taxable income / deductions arising from other temporary differences not otherwise specified in the taxonomy for non-U.S. jurisdictions. Deferred Tax Assets, Gross Deferred Tax Assets, Gross Deferred Tax Assets, Valuation Allowance Deferred Tax Assets, Valuation Allowance Deferred Tax Assets, Net Deferred Tax Assets, Net DeferredTaxLiabilitiesIntangibleAssets DeferredTaxLiabilitiesIntangibleAssets The cumulative amount of the estimated future tax effects attributable to the difference between the tax basis of intangible assets and the basis of intangible assets computed in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles. The difference in basis, whether due to amortization or other reasons, will increase/decrease future taxable income when such difference reverses. Intangible assets include, but are not limited to, assets such as patents, trademarks and customer lists. Deferred Tax Liabilities Deferred Tax Liabilities Deferred Tax Assets (Liabilities), Net Deferred Tax Assets (Liabilities), Net Deferred Tax Assets, Net, Current Deferred Tax Assets, Net, Current Deferred Tax Liabilities, Current Deferred Tax Liabilities, Current Deferred Tax Assets, Net, Noncurrent Deferred Tax Assets, Net, Noncurrent Deferred Tax Liabilities, Noncurrent Operating Loss and Tax Credit Carryforward Loss Carryforward Operating Loss and Tax Credit Carryforward Loss Carryforward The sum of the tax effects as of the balance sheet date of the amount of excesses of ordinary or capital tax deductions over gross income in a year which cannot be used on the tax returns in the current year but can be carried forward to reduce taxable income or income taxes payable in a future year, for which there must be sufficient tax-basis income to utilize a portion or all of the carryforward amount to realize the deferred tax asset. Operating Loss and Tax Credit Carryforward Loss And Tax Credit Carryforward Operating Loss and Tax Credit Carryforward Loss And Tax Credit Carryforward The sum of the tax effects as of the balance sheet date of the amount of excesses of ordinary or capital tax deductions over gross income and excess tax credits in a year which cannot be used on the tax returns in the current year but can be carried forward to reduce taxable income or income taxes payable in a future year, for which there must be sufficient tax-basis income to utilize a portion or all of the carryforward amount to realize the deferred tax asset. Deferred Tax Assets, Tax Credit Carryforwards, Alternative Minimum Tax Deferred Tax Assets, Tax Credit Carryforwards, Alternative Minimum Tax Deferred Tax Assets Tax Credit Carryforwards General Business Credit Deferred Tax Assets Tax Credit Carryforwards General Business Credit The tax effect as of the balance sheet date of the amount of future tax deductions arising from unused general business tax credit carryforwards. The general business tax credits are the sum of numerous tax credits which include, but are not limited to research tax, investment tax , alcohol fuels, low income housing, alternative fuels, alternative motor vehicles, hurricane relief, disabled access, renewable resources electricity production, employer social security, orphan drug, new markets, employer provided child care facilities and services, biodiesel fuels, low sulfur diesel fuel production, distilled spirits, and the advanced nuclear power facilities credit. A tax credit carryforward is the amount by which tax credits available for utilization exceeded statutory limits on inclusion in historical filings. They can only be utilized if sufficient tax-basis income is generated in future periods and providing tax laws continue to allow such utilization. Deferred Tax Assets, Tax Credit Carryforwards, Foreign Deferred Tax Assets, Tax Credit Carryforwards, Foreign Operating Loss and Tax Credit Carryforward Total Loss And Tax Credit Carryforward Operating Loss and Tax Credit Carryforward Total Loss And Tax Credit Carryforward The tax effect as of the balance sheet date of the amount of future tax deductions arising from all unused loss carryforwards and tax credit carryforwards which have been reduced by a valuation allowance. Delinquency [Abstract] Delinquency [Abstract] Schedule of Financing Receivables Past Due [Table] Schedule of Financing Receivables Past Due [Table] Financing Receivable, Recorded Investment, Past Due [Line Items] Financing Receivable, Recorded Investment, Past Due [Line Items] Financing Receivable, Recorded Investment, 31 to 60 Days Past Due Financing Receivable, Recorded Investment, 31 to 60 Days Past Due Financing Receivable, Recorded Investment, 31 to 60 Days Past Due Financing receivables 31 to 60 days past due - percent of contractual amount due Financing receivables 31 to 60 days past due - percent of contractual amount due Financing Receivables that are less than 61 days past due but more than 31 days past due - percent of contractual amount due. Financing Receivable, Recorded Investment, Greater than 60 Days Past Due Financing Receivable, Recorded Investment, Greater than 60 Days Past Due Financing Receivable, Recorded Investment, Greater than 60 Days Past Due Financing Receivables Greater than 60 Days Past Due - percent of contractual amount due Financing Receivables Greater than 60 Days Past Due - percent of contractual amount due Financing receivables that are greater than 60 days past due - percent of contractual amount due. Financing Receivable, Recorded Investment, Greater than 30 Days Past Due Financing Receivable, Recorded Investment, Greater than 30 Days Past Due Financing Receivable, Recorded Investment, Greater than 30 Days Past Due Financing Receivable Greater than 30 Days Past Due - percent of contractual amount due Financing Receivable Greater than 30 Days Past Due - percent of contractual amount due Financing receivables that are greater than 30 days past due - percent of contractual amount due. Financing Receivable in Repossesion Financing Receivable in Repossesion Financing Receivable in Repossession Financing Receivables in Repossesion - percent of contractual amount due Financing Receivables in Repossesion - percent of contractual amount due Financing receivables in repossesion - percent of contractual amount due. Total Financing Receivables More Than 30 Days Delinquent and in Repossession Total Financing Receivables More Than 30 Days Delinquent and in Repossession Total Financing Receivables More Than 30 Days Delinquent and in Repossession Total Financing Receivables More Than 30 Days Delinquent and in Repossession - percent of contractual amount due Total Financing Receivables More Than 30 Days Delinquent and in Repossession - percent of contractual amount due Total financing receivables more than 30 days delinquent and in repossession - percent of contractual amount due. Securitizations [Table Text Block] Securitizations [Table Text Block] Summary of securitization activity and cash flows from special purpose entties used for securitizations Transactions with investee [Abstract] Transactions with investee [Abstract] Transactions with investee [Text Block] Transactions with investee [Text Block] Automotive Short-term and Long-term Debt by Collateral Type [Abstract] Automotive Short-term and Long-term Debt by Collateral Type [Abstract] Unsecured Debt [Member] Automotive Short-term and Long-term Debt by Collateral Type [Line Items] Automotive Short-term and Long-term Debt by Collateral Type [Line Items] Reclassified decrease in COS and interest income and other nonoperating income, net Reclassified decrease in COS and interest income and other nonoperating income, net Reclassified decrease in COS Net assets subject foreign currency restrictions Net assets subject foreign currency restrictions Net assets subject foreign currency restrictions Amounts receivable by reporting entity subsidiairies from currency restricted subsidiary Amounts receivable by reporting entity subsidiairies from currency restricted subsidiary Amounts receivable by reporting entity subsidiairies from currency restricted subsidiary Amount of foreign currency payment pending approval Amount of foreign currency payment pending approval Amount of foreign currency payment pending approval measured in local currency (BsF) Foreign currency amount pending approval measured in USD Foreign currency amount pending approval measured in USD Foreign currency amount pending approval measured in USD China JVs [Member] China JVs [Member] Other nonconsolidated affiliates [Member] Other nonconsolidated affiliates [Member] Current Assets of Nonconsolidated Affiliates Current Assets of Nonconsolidated Affiliates Current Assets of Nonconsolidated Affiliates NonCurrent Assets of Nonconsolidated Affiliates NonCurrent Assets of Nonconsolidated Affiliates Non-current Assets of Nonconsolidated Affiliates Total Assets of Nonconsolidated Affiliates Total Assets of Nonconsolidated Affiliates Total Assets of Nonconsolidated Affiliates Current Liabilities of Nonconsolidated Affiliates Current Liabilities of Nonconsolidated Affiliates Current Liabilities of Nonconsolidated Affiliates NonCurrent Liabilities of Nonconsolidated Affiliates NonCurrent Liabilities of Nonconsolidated Affiliates Non-current Liabilities of Nonconsolidated Affiliates Total Liabilities of Nonconsolidated Affiliates Total Liabilities of Nonconsolidated Affiliates Total Liabilities of Nonconsolidated Affiliates Non-controlling Interests of Nonconsolidated Affiliates Non-controlling Interests of Nonconsolidated Affiliates Non-controlling Interests of Nonconsolidated Affiliates Fair Value by Asset Class [Axis] Fair Value, Assets Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation, by Asset Class [Domain] Fair Value, Assets Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation [Line Items] Fair Value, Assets Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation [Line Items] Year of Securitization Transaction [Axis] Year of Securitization Transaction [Axis] Year of Securitization Transaction [Domain] Year of Securitization Transaction [Domain] 2006 Transactions [Member] 2006 Transactions 2007 Transactions [Member] 2007 Transactions [Member] 2008 Transactions [Member] 2008 Transactions [Member] 2009 Transactions [Member] 2009 Transactions [Member] 2010 Transactions [Member] 2010 Transactions [Member] 2011 Transactions [Member] 2011 Transactions [Member] BV 2005 Transaction [Member] BV 2005 Transaction [Member] BV 2005 Transaction [Member] LB 2006 Transaction [Member] LB 2006 Transaction [Member] LB 2006 Transaction [Member] Total Receivabels Pledged to Securitization Trust Total Receivabels Pledged to Securitization Trust Total Receivabels Pledged to Securitization Trust Debt Instrument, Unamortized Premium Debt Instrument, Unamortized Premium Securitized Notes Payable Securitized Notes Payable Amount of securitized debt issued by securitization trusts to third-party investors accounted for as secured borrowings. Debt Instrument, Maturity Date Range, Start Debt Instrument, Maturity Date Range, End Original Note Amounts - Minimum Original Note Amounts - Minimum Original Note Amounts - Maximum Original Note Amounts - Maximum Original Weighted-Average Interest Rate - Minimum Original Weighted-Average Interest Rate - Minimum Original Weighted-Average Interest Rate - Maximum Original Weighted-Average Interest Rate - Maximum Service and Administratative cost Service and Administratative cost Service and Administratative cost The actuarial present value of benefits attributed by the pension benefit formula to services rendered by employees during the period and administrative expenses Service Cost Expected Return on Plan Assets Defined Benefit Plan, Expected Return on Plan Assets Amortization of Prior Service Cost (Credit) Defined Benefit Plan, Amortization of Prior Service Cost (Credit) Amortization of Transition Obligations (Assets) Defined Benefit Plan, Amortization of Transition Obligations (Assets) Recognition of Actuarial Gains (Losses) Defined Benefit Plan, Amortization of Gains (Losses) Curtailments, settlements and other losses Curtailments, settlements and other losses Curtailments, settlements and other losses - The aggregrate amount of net gain (loss)recognized in net period benefit cost due to settlements, curtailments and other adjustments. Net Periodic Pension and OPEB (Income) Expense Defined Benefit Plan, Net Periodic Benefit Cost Administrative Expense administrative expense The sum of expenses not otherwise specified in the taxomony for managing and administering the pension and post retirement benefit plans Discount Rate Defined Benefit Plan, Assumptions Used Calculating Benefit Obligation, Discount Rate Rate of Compensation Increase Defined Benefit Plan, Assumptions Used Calculating Benefit Obligation, Rate of Compensation Increase Discount Rate Defined Benefit Plan, Assumptions Used Calculating Net Periodic Benefit Cost, Discount Rate Expected Return on Assets Rate of Compensation Increase Defined Benefit Plan, Assumptions Used Calculating Net Periodic Benefit Cost, Rate of Compensation Increase India JV [Member] India JV [Member] India JV with SAIC-HK. Significant Acquisitions and Disposals, Acquisition Costs or Sale Proceeds Significant Acquisitions and Disposals, Acquisition Costs or Sale Proceeds Investments in and Advance to Affiliates, Subsidiaries, Associates, and Joint Ventures Investments in and Advance to Affiliates, Subsidiaries, Associates, and Joint Ventures Joint venture non-cash investment Joint venture non-cash investment Joint venture non-cash investment representing commitment for future funding. fair value measurement of HKJV option Fair value measurement of option Fair value measurement of option Unrealized Gain (Loss) on Investments Unrealized Gain (Loss) on Investments FAW [Member] FAW [Member] FAW [Member] SGM [Member] SGM [Member] SGM [Member] SAIC [Member] SAIC [Member] SAIC Shanghai Automotive [Member] SGMW [Member] SGMW [Member] SGMW [Member] SGM DYPT [Member] SGM DYPT [Member] SGM DYPT [Member] PATAC [Member] PATAC [Member] PATAC [Member] Shanghai Onstar [Member] Shanghai Onstar [Member] Shanghai Onstar [Member] Shanghai Chengxin [Member] Shanghai Chengxin [Member] Shanghai Chengxin used car JV [Member] SGMS [Member] SGMS [Member] SGMS [Member] SGM Norsom [Member] SGM Norsom [Member] SGM Norsom [Member] SGM DY [Member] SGM DY [Member] SGM DY [Member] Equity interest in NUMMI retained by MLC Equity interest in JV retained by predecessor Equity interest in JV retained by predecessor SAIC Ownership Percent of SGM Percentage of affiliate owned by others Percentage of affiliate owned by others SGM Ownership Percent of Other China JVs Affiiate Ownership Percent of Other China JVs Affiliate ownership percent in other China JVs Equity income in Ally Financial Equity income in Nonconsolidated Investee Equity income in Investee accounted for under the equity method. Gain on conversion of UST Ally Financial Loan Gain on Conversion of Government Loan Gain on conversion of Government Loan Total equity in income of and disposition of interest in Ally Financial Equity income in China JVs Equity income in China JVs Equity income in China JVs Equity income in Nummi Equity income in JV retained by predecessor Equity income in Jv retained by predecessor Equity income in New Delphi Equity income in Domestic Supplier Affiliate Equity income in domestic supplier affiliate Equity income in Others Equity income in Others Equity income in Others Income (Loss) from Equity Method Investments percent sale of equity interest percent sale of equity interest percent sale of equity interest percent purchase of equity interest percent purchase of equity interest Percent purchase of equity interest Purchase of equity interest Purchase of equity interest Purchase of equity interest Proceeds from Lines of Credit Proceeds from Lines of Credit Proceeds from Dividends Received Proceeds from Dividends Received Liuzhou ownership percent of SGMW Liuzhou ownership percent of SGMW Liuzhou ownership percent of SGMW Retained Earnings, Undistributed Earnings from Equity Method Investees Retained Earnings, Undistributed Earnings from Equity Method Investees Automotive Financing Debt [Table Text Block] Automotive Financing Debt [Table Text Block] Automotive Financing Debt [Table Text Block] Securitizations Notes Payable [Table Text Block] Securitizations Notes Payable [Table Text Block] Tabular representation summarizing securitization notes payable including maturities, note amounts, weighted average interest rates, receivables pledged. Schedule of Line of Credit Facilities [Table Text Block] Schedule of Line of Credit Facilities [Table Text Block] Commitment and contingencies [Table Text Block] Commitment and contingencies [Table Text Block] Tabular disclosure of commitment and contingencies that were disclosed as of the balance sheet date. Contract Cancellations [Table Text Block] Contract Cancellations [Table Text Block] Tabular disclosure of contract cancellation charges during the reporting periods Schedule of Future Minimum Commitments for Operating Leases [Table Text Block] Schedule of Rent Expense [Table Text Block] Schedule of Rent Expense [Table Text Block] Obligations On Agreements with Disposed Equity Investment Subsidiary [Table Text Block] Charges On Agreements with Disposed Equity Investment Subsidiary [Table Text Block] Tabular disclosures of charges associated with the various agreements with disposed equity investment subsidiary. Schedule of Operating Leased Assets [Table] Schedule of Operating Leased Assets [Table] Equipment on Operating Leases, Gross Property Subject to or Available for Operating Lease, Gross Accumulated Depreciation Property Subject to or Available for Operating Lease, Accumulated Depreciation Equipment on Operating Lease, Net Depreciation Expense Operating Leases, Income Statement, Depreciation Expense on Property Subject to or Held-for-lease Impairment Charges Tangible Asset Impairment Charges Leases Serviced by Canadian Subsidiary Leases Serviced by Canadian Subsidiary Leases Serviced by Canadian Subsidiary Future Minimum Rental Payments Receivable [Abstract] Operating Leases, Future Minimum Payments Receivable [Abstract] 2012 Operating Leases, Future Minimum Payments Receivable, Current 2013 Operating Leases, Future Minimum Payments Receivable, in Two Years 2014 Operating Leases, Future Minimum Payments Receivable, in Three Years 2015 Operating Leases, Future Minimum Payments Receivable, in Four Years 2016 Operating Leases, Future Minimum Payments Receivable, in Five Years Operating and other expenses (income) Other Operating Expense Other operating expense not otherwise separately classified. Expenses related to Saab deconsolidation, net Entity Deconsolidation Expense Expenses that are associated with the deconsolidation of an entity during the reporting period. Saab Impairment charges Impairment Expense Impairment expense associated with a specifically indentified transaction. Delphi related charges Vendor Agreement Guarantee Expense Operating expense associated with specific vendor agreements including guarantee obligations. Depreciation and amortization expense Depreciation and Amortization On Automotive Retail Leases Depreciation and amortization on the total portfolio of automotive retail leases. Interest expense Interest Expense On Automotive Retail Leases Interest Expense on total portfolio of automotive retail leases. Total other automotive expense, net Other Cost and Expense, Operating Schedule of Finite-Lived Intangible Assets by Major Class [Table Text Block] Schedule of Finite-Lived Intangible Assets by Major Class [Table Text Block] AmortizationOfIntangibleAssets [Table Text Block] AmortizationOfIntangibleAssets [Table Text Block] Tabular disclosure for the amortization of 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 Inventory, Current [Table Text Block] Schedule of Inventory, Current [Table Text Block] Derivative Assets Derivative Liabilities Amounts Included In Other [Abstract] Amounts Included In Other. Impairment charges related to investment in Ally Financial common stock Impairment charge recorded on common stock of investee Impairment charge recorded on the common stock of an investee. Gain On Sale Of Ally Financial Preferred Stock Gain Recorded On Sale Of Preferred Stock Of An Investee Gain recorded on sale of preferred stock of an investee. Deferred Revenue from Technology Agreements Deferred Revenue from Technology Agreements The amount of deferred revenue recognized during the reporting period from Technology agreements with SGMW. Gain On Reveresal Of Accrual For Contingently Issuable Adjustment Shares Gain On Reveresal Of Accrual The amount of the gain recorded due to the reversal of an accrual for contingently issuable adjustment shares. Interest Income Interest Income The amount of interest income recognized during the reporting period. Net Gains On Derivatives Net Gains On Derivatives The categorizaton of information related to the adjustments to the fair value of derivative contracts which adjustments have been recognized in earnings during the period. Rental income Rental Income The amount of rental income recognized associated with non-operating assets during the reporting period. Dividends And royalties Dividends And Royalties The amount of dividends and royalties recognized during the reporting period. Other Other The aggregate amount of other income amounts, the components of which are not separately disclosed on the income statement, resulting from ancillary business-related activities (that is, excluding major activities considered part of the normal operations of the business) also known as other nonoperating income recognized for the period. Total interest income and other non-operating income, net Interest and Other Income Nature of Operations [Abstract] Nature of Operations [Abstract] Nature Of Operations Nature of Operations [Text Block] Movement in Standard Product Warranty Accrual [Roll Forward] Beginning balance 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 Standard Product Warranty Accrual, Currency Translation, Increase (Decrease) Liability adjustment, net due to the deconsolidation of Saab Liability Adjustment Net Due To The Deconsolidation Of Subsidiary Represents the liability adjustment net due to the reclassification of subsidiary assets and liabilities as held for sale. Standard product warranty accrual before effect of application of fresh-start reporting Standard product warranty accrual before effect of application of fresh-start reporting Amount as of the balance sheet date of the aggregate standard product warranty liability. Does not include the balance for the extended product warranty liability. Effect of application of fresh-start reporting Effect Of Application Of Fresh Start Reporting Represents the effect of the application of fresh-start reporting. Ending balance Corporate Debt Securities [Member] Defined Benefit Plan, Effect of One Percentage Point Increase on Service and Interest Cost Components Defined Benefit Plan, Effect of One Percentage Point Increase on Service and Interest Cost Components Defined Benefit Plan, Effect of One Percentage Point Increase on Accumulated Postretirement Benefit Obligation Defined Benefit Plan, Effect of One Percentage Point Increase on Accumulated Postretirement Benefit Obligation Defined Benefit Plan, Effect of One Percentage Point Decrease on Service and Interest Cost Components Defined Benefit Plan, Effect of One Percentage Point Decrease on Service and Interest Cost Components Defined Benefit Plan, Effect of One Percentage Point Decrease on Accumulated Postretirement Benefit Obligation Defined Benefit Plan, Effect of One Percentage Point Decrease on Accumulated Postretirement Benefit Obligation Defined Benefit Plan, Health Care Cost Trend Rate Assumed for Next Fiscal Year Defined Benefit Plan, Health Care Cost Trend Rate Assumed for Next Fiscal Year Defined Benefit Plan, Ultimate Health Care Cost Trend Rate Defined Benefit Plan, Ultimate Health Care Cost Trend Rate Health care ultimate trend rate number of years Health care ultimate trend rate number of years Health care ultimate trend rate number of years Pre-Acquisition Finance Receivables Outstanding Balance Pre-Acquisition Finance Receivables Outstanding Balance Pre-Acquisition Finance Receivables Outstanding at Balance Sheet date Carrying Value Adjustment Carrying Value Adjustment Carrying Value Adjustment Pre-Acquisition Finance Receivables, Carrying Value Post-Acquisition Finance Receivables, Carrying Value Finance Receivables, Carrying Value Allowance for Notes, Loans and Financing Receivable Allowance for Notes, Loans and Financing Receivable Notes, Loans and Financing Receivable, Net Note 21. Income Taxes [Abstract] Note 21. Income Taxes [Abstract] Change of Valuation Allowance [Table] Change of Valuation Allowance [Table] Change of Valuation Allowance [Table] gm_ValuationAllowanceReleaseOrChargeAxis [Axis] gm_ValuationAllowanceReleaseOrChargeAxis [Axis] The axis of a table defines the relationship between the domain members or categories in the table and the line items or concepts that complete the table. gm_ValuationAllowanceReleaseOrChargeDomain [Domain] gm_ValuationAllowanceReleaseOrChargeDomain [Domain] Identifies the amount of valuation release/charge for specified jurisdiction Brazil [Member] Non-U.S. [Member] Australia [Member] Australia [Member] Australia [Member] Sweden [Member] Sweden [Member] Other countries [Member] Other countries [Member] Valuation Allowance [Line Items] Valuation Allowance Release Or Charge gm_ValuationAllowanceReleaseOrCharge Schedule reflecting establishment or release of valuation allowance for significant jurisdictions Movement in Valuation Allowances and Reserves [Roll Forward] Deferred Tax Assets, Valuation Allowance, Beginning Balance Valuation Allowance, Amount Valuation Allowance, Deferred Tax Asset, Change in Amount Valuation Allowance, Deferred Tax Asset, Change in Amount Deferred Tax Assets, Valuation Allowance, Ending Balance Deferred tax valuation allowance release due to Reorganization Deferred tax valuation allowance release due to Reorganization Change in valuation allowance in 2009 resulting from the Section 363 Sale and Fresh Start adjustments. Valuation Allowance Change Due To 363 Sale And Fresh Start Accounting-US Debt Cancellation gm_ValuationAllowanceChangeDueTo363SaleAndFreshStartAccounting-USDebtCancellation Change in valuation allowance attributable to 363 sale and fresh start reporting due to US debt cancellation income. Valuation Allowance Change Due To 363 Sale And Fresh Start Accounting-Fresh Start Reporting gm_ValuationAllowanceChangeDueTo363SaleAndFreshStartAccounting-FreshStartReporting Change in valuation allowance attributable to 363 sale and fresh start reporting due to fresh start reporting. Valuation Allowance Change Due To 363 Sale And Fresh Start Accounting-MLC Carveout gm_ValuationAllowanceChangeDueTo363SaleAndFreshStartAccounting-MLC_Carveout Change in valuation allowance attributable to 363 sale and fresh start reporting attributable to MLC carveout. Valuation Allowance Change Due To 363 Sale And Fresh Start Accounting-Foreign Tax Attribute Reduction gm_ValuationAllowanceChangeDueTo363SaleAndFreshStartAccounting-ForeignTaxAttributeReduction Change in valuation allowance attributable to 363 sale and fresh start reporting attributable to foreign tax attribute reduction. Valuation Allowance Change Due To 363 Sale And Fresh Start Accounting-Release Of VA gm_ValuationAllowanceChangeDueTo363SaleAndFreshStartAccounting-ReleaseOfVA Change in valuation allowance attributable to 363 sale and fresh start reporting attributable to release of valuation allowance. Equity Method Investment, Summarized Financial Information [Abstract] Equity In Net Assets Of Nonconsolidated Affiliates acquisition purchase price allocation to non-controlling interests Acquisition purchase price allocation to non-controlling interests Acquisition purchase price allocation to non-controlling interests in acquisition of additional interest of non-wholly owned subsidiary Purchase price allocated to accumulated OCI Purchase price allocated to accumulated OCI Purchase price allocated to accumulated OCI in connection with acquistion of additional voting interest in non-wholly owned subsidiary. Purchase price allocated to Capital Surplus Purchase price allocated to Capital Surplus Purchase price allocated to Capital Surplus in connection with the acquisition of additional voting interest of non-wholly owned subsidiary. Financial Statements effects and max obligations [Table Text Block] Financial Statements effects and max obligations [Table Text Block] Financial Statements effects and max obligations [Table Text Block] Transactions Ally Financial [Table Text Block] Transactions investee [Table Text Block] Transactions investee [Table Text Block] Earnings (Loss) Per Share [Abstract] Earnings (Loss) Per Share [Abstract] Earnings (Loss) 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] MLC Warrants [Member] Warrants distributed by Motors Liquidation Company to its unsecured creditors. Earnings (Loss) Per Share [Line Items] Earnings Per Share, Diluted, by Common Class, Including Two Class Method [Line Items] Addition of preferred dividends to holders of Series B Preferred Stock Preferred Stock Dividends, Income Statement Impact Less: cumulative dividends on and charge related to purchase of preferred stock and undistributed earnings allocated to Series B Preferred Stock participating security Net income (loss) attributable to common stockholders Weighted-average common shares outstanding - basic Net income (loss) attibutable to common stockholders Net Income (Loss) Available to Common Stockholders, Diluted 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 Dilutive effect of restricted stock units Incremental Common Shares Attributable to Share-based Payment Arrangements Weighted-average common shares outstanding - diluted Earned but undeclared dividends on preferred stock Preferred Stock, Amount of Preferred Dividends in Arrears Cumulative dividends on preferred stock Dividends, Preferred Stock Earnings allocated to Series B Preferred Stock Undistributed Earnings Allocated to Participating Securities Other Preferred Stock Dividends and Adjustments Other Preferred Stock Dividends and Adjustments Preferred stock dividends paid Preferred Stock Assumed Converted Preferred Stock Assumed Converted Common stock equivalents from the assumed conversion of the Series B Preferred Stock that are not considered outstanding for purposes of determining the weighted-average common shares outstanding in the computation of diluted earnings per share. Unvested RSUs outstanding Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Nonvested, Number Stock issued during period, shares, employee benefit Schedule of Nonvested Restricted Stock Units Activity [Table Text Block] Schedule of Nonvested Restricted Stock Units Activity [Table Text Block] Restructuring And Other Initiatives Restructuring and Related Activities Disclosure [Text Block] 363 Sale Purchase Price [Table] 363 Sale Purchase Price [Table] Major elements of total price paid for those assets and liabilities acquired in the 363 Sale [Table] 363 Sale Purchase Price [Axis] 363 Sale Purchase Price [Axis] 363 Sale Purchase Price [Domain] 363 Sale Purchase Price [Domain] 363 Sale Purchase Price [Line Items] 363 Sale Purchase Price [Line Items] Purchase price composed of UST Loan Agreement Debt Purchase price composed of Government Loan Agreement Debt Purchase price composed of Government Loan Agreement Debt which is part of the aggregate 363 Sale price paid. UST Additional Notes Component of 363 Sale Price Government Additional Notes Component of 363 Sale Price Government Additional Notes Component of 363 Sale Price representing notes issued as additional compensation to UST as a part of the UST financing arrangement. DIP Fnancing Component of 363 Price DIP Fnancing Component of 363 Price Debtor-in-Possession Financing Component of 363 Price paid for assets and liabilities acquired in reorganization. DIP Additional Notes component of 363 Sale Price DIP Additional Notes component of 363 Sale Price Additional Notes component of 363 Sale Price issued in connection with the Debtor-in-Possession financing which acted as additional compensation to the lenders. 363 Sale Purchase Price Debt Offset Component 363 Sale Purchase Price Reduction 363 Sale Purchase Price reduction equal to the amount of debt outstanding at July 10, 2009 under the DIP facility. Debt assumed in 363 Sale Debt assumed in 363 Sale Debt assumed in 363 Sale purchase price representing the amount outstanding under the DIP facility at the date of the 363 Sale. Contingent consideration trigger level Contingent consideration trigger level Level of unsecured creditor claims approved by Bankruptcy Court necessary to trigger the issuance of Adjustment Shares. Securitizations [Table] Securitizations [Table] Securitizations [Table] Securtizations [Line Items] Securtizations [Line Items] Securitizations [Line Items] Receivables Securitized Receivables Securitized The amount of finance receivables transferred to securitization Trusts during the period. Proceeds from Securitizations of Consumer Loans Proceeds from Securitizations of Consumer Loans Contractually Specified Servicing Fees, Amount Contractually Specified Servicing Fees, Amount Net distributions from Trusts Net distributions from Trusts Net distributions from Trusts represent the excess cash flows received from a securitization Trust Finance Receivables Transferred to Securitization Special Purpose Entities Finance Receivables Transferred to Securitization Special Purpose Entities Finance Receivables Transferred to Securitization Special Purpose Entities Other Significant Noncash Transactions by Unique Description [Axis] U.S. hourly and salaried pension plans [Member] U.S. hourly and salaried pension plans [Member] CAW hourly retiree health care plan [Member] CAW hourly retiree health care plan [Member] New VEBA [Member] (Increase) Decrease in Accounts Receivable Increase (Decrease) in Accounts Receivable (Increase) Decrease in Prepaid Expense and Other Assets Increase (Decrease) in Prepaid Expense and Other Assets (Increase) Decrease in Inventories Increase (Decrease) in Inventories Increase (Decrease) in Accounts Payable Increase (Decrease) in Accounts Payable Increase (Decrease) in Income Taxes Payable Increase (Decrease) in Income Taxes Payable Increase (Decrease) in Accrued Liabilities and Other Operating Liabilities Increase (Decrease) in Accrued Liabilities and Other Operating Liabilities Increase (Decrease) in Equipment on Operating Lease Net increase (decrease) in fleet rentals due to acquistions and liquidations Net increase (decrease) in fleet rentals due to acquistions and liquidations Increase (Decrease) in Other Operating Assets and Liabilities, Net Income Taxes Paid, Net Income Taxes Paid, Net Interest Paid Interest Paid Notes Issued Capital Expenditures Incurred but Not yet Paid Capital Expenditures Incurred but Not yet Paid Preferred Stock Issued Stock Issued Common stock and warrants issued Common stock and warrants issued The fair value of ommon stock and warrants issued in noncash financing activites. Defined Benefit Plan, Expected Future Benefit Payments in Year One Defined Benefit Plan, Expected Future Benefit Payments in Year One Defined Benefit Plan, Expected Future Benefit Payments in Year Two Defined Benefit Plan, Expected Future Benefit Payments in Year Two Defined Benefit Plan, Expected Future Benefit Payments in Year Three Defined Benefit Plan, Expected Future Benefit Payments in Year Three Defined Benefit Plan, Expected Future Benefit Payments in Year Four Defined Benefit Plan, Expected Future Benefit Payments in Year Four Defined Benefit Plan, Expected Future Benefit Payments in Year Five Defined Benefit Plan, Expected Future Benefit Payments in Year Five Defined Benefit Plan, Expected Future Benefit Payments in Five Fiscal Years Thereafter Defined Benefit Plan, Expected Future Benefit Payments in Five Fiscal Years Thereafter Equity Securities Defined Benefit Plan, Target Allocation Percentage of Assets, Equity Securities Debt Securities Defined Benefit Plan, Target Allocation Percentage of Assets, Debt Securities Real Estate Defined Benefit Plan, Target Allocation Percentage of Assets, Real Estate Other Defined Benefit Plan, Target Allocation Percentage of Assets, Other Total Target Allocations Percent Total Target Allocations Percent Total Target Allocations in Percent Fair Value, Measurement with Unobservable Inputs Reconciliation, Recurring Basis, Asset, Gain (Loss) Included in Earnings Fair Value, Measurement with Unobservable Inputs Reconciliation, Recurring Basis, Asset, Gain (Loss) Included in Earnings Fair Value, Measurement with Unobservable Inputs Reconciliation, Recurring Basis, Asset, Gain (Loss) Included in Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) Fair Value, Measurement with Unobservable Inputs Reconciliation, Recurring Basis, Asset, Gain (Loss) Included in Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) Fair Value, Measurement with Unobservable Inputs Reconciliation, Recurring Basis, Asset, Settlements Schedule of Income before Income Tax, Domestic and Foreign [Table Text Block] Schedule of Income before Income Tax, Domestic and Foreign [Table Text Block] Schedule of Components of Income Tax Expense (Benefit) [Table Text Block] Schedule of Components of Income Tax Expense (Benefit) [Table Text Block] Schedule of Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation [Table Text Block] Schedule of Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation [Table Text Block] Schedule of Deferred Tax Assets and Liabilities [Table Text Block] Schedule of Deferred Tax Assets and Liabilities [Table Text Block] ScheduleOfDeferredTaxAssetsAndLiabilitiesClassificationTableTextBlock [Table Text Block] ScheduleOfDeferredTaxAssetsAndLiabilitiesClassificationTableTextBlock [Table Text Block] Tabular disclosure of the classification of net deferred tax asset or liability recognized in an entity's statement balance sheet ScheduleOfOperatingLossAndTaxCreditCarryforwardTableTextBlock [Table Text Block] ScheduleOfOperatingLossAndTaxCreditCarryforwardTableTextBlock [Table Text Block] Tabular disclosure of pertinent information, such as amounts, and expiration dates, of net operating loss carryforwards and tax credit carryforwards ChangeInValuationAllowanceByJurisdictionTableTextBlock [Table Text Block] ChangeInValuationAllowanceByJurisdictionTableTextBlock [Table Text Block] Tabular disclosure of the change in valuation allowance related to certain net deferred tax assests in US and nonUS jurisdictions. ValuationAllowanceReleaseOrChargeTableTextBlock [Table Text Block] ValuationAllowanceReleaseOrChargeTableTextBlock [Table Text Block] Tabular disclosure of establishment or release of valuation allowance for significant jurisdictions UnrecognizedTaxBenefitsResultingInNetOperatingLossCarryforwardTableTextBlock [Table Text Block] UnrecognizedTaxBenefitsResultingInNetOperatingLossCarryforwardTableTextBlock [Table Text Block] Tabular disclosure of tax positions taken in the tax returns filed or to be filed for which it is more likely than not that the tax position will not be sustained upon examination by taxing authorities (i.e., uncertain tax positions) and other types of income tax contingencies, including the total amount(s) unrecognized tax benefits that, if recognized, would affect the effective tax rate UnrecognizedTaxBenefitsTabularReconciliation [Table Text Block] UnrecognizedTaxBenefitsTabularReconciliation [Table Text Block] Tabular disclosure of tax positions taken in the tax returns filed or to be filed for which it is more likely than not that the tax position will not be sustained upon examination by taxing authorities (i.e., uncertain tax positions) and other types of income tax contingencies, This is a tabular reconciliation of the total amounts of unrecognized tax benefits at the beginning and end of the period IncomeTaxExaminationPenaltiesAndInterestExpenseTableTexBlock [Table Text Block] IncomeTaxExaminationPenaltiesAndInterestExpenseTableTexBlock [Table Text Block] Tabular disclosure of tax positions taken in the tax returns filed or to be filed for which it is more likely than not that the tax position will not be sustained upon examination by taxing authorities (i.e., uncertain tax positions) and other types of income tax contingencies. This table shows the total amount interest and penalties recognized in each of the income statement IncomeTaxExaminationPenaltiesAndInterestAccruedTableTexBlock [Table Text Block] IncomeTaxExaminationPenaltiesAndInterestAccruedTableTexBlock [Table Text Block] Tabular disclosure of tax positions taken in the tax returns filed or to be filed for which it is more likely than not that the tax position will not be sustained upon examination by taxing authorities (i.e., uncertain tax positions) and other types of income tax contingencies. This table shows the total amount interest and penalties recognized in each of the balance sheet Trading Securities [Abstract] Schedule of Trading Securities and Other Trading Assets, Major Types of Trading Securities and Assets [Axis] Major Types of Trading Securities and Assets [Domain] Trading Securities Pledged as Collateral Trading Securities Pledged as Collateral Accounts and notes receivable, net with nonconsolidated affiliates Accounts and notes receivable, net with nonconsolidated affiliates Accounts and notes receivable, net with nonconsolidated affiliates Accounts payable with nonconsolidated affiliates Accounts payable with nonconsolidated affiliates Accounts payable with nonconsolidated affiliates Deferred revenue and customer deposits with nonconsolidated affiliates Deferred revenue and customer deposits with nonconsolidated affiliates Deferred revenue and customer deposits with nonconsolidated affiliates Marketable Securities Marketable Securities [Text Block] New Delphi [Member] New Delphi [Member] New Delphi [Member] Obligations settled in acquisition [Axis] Obligations settled in acquisition [Axis] Obligations settled in acquisition [Domain] Obligations settled in acquisition [Domain] Delphi [Member] Delphi [Member] Delphi [Member] PBGC [Member] PBGC [Member] Business Acquisition, Purchase Price Allocation, Current Assets, Prepaid Expense and Other Assets Business Acquisition, Purchase Price Allocation, Current Assets Business Acquisition, Cost of Acquired Entity, Cash Paid Business Acquisition, Cost of Acquired Entity, Cash Paid Business Acquisition, Purchase Price Allocation, Liabilities Assumed Business Acquisition, Purchase Price Allocation, Liabilities Assumed Cash paid to acquiree Cash paid to acquiree Cash paid to acquiree. Acquisition Consideration Paid to third Parties Acquisition Consideration Paid to third Parties Acquisition Consideration Paid to third Parties Business Acquired, Contractual Obligation Settlement Loss Business Acquired, Contractual Obligation Settlement Loss Business Acquired, Contractual Obligation Settlement Loss Business Acquisition, Cost of Acquired Entity, Other Noncash Consideration Business Acquisition, Cost of Acquired Entity, Other Noncash Consideration Business Acquisition, Cost of Acquired Entity, Purchase Price Fair Value of Class A Membership Interest Fair Value of Membership Interest Fair Value of Membership Interest Acquired Business Combination, Separately Recognized Transactions, Assets Recognized Business Combination, Separately Recognized Transactions, Assets Recognized Business Combination, Separately Recognized Transactions, Liabilities Recognized Business Combination, Separately Recognized Transactions, Liabilities Recognized Business Acquisition, Purchase Price Allocation, Assets Acquired (Liabilities Assumed), Net Business Acquisition, Purchase Price Allocation, Noncurrent Assets Business Acquisition, Purchase Price Allocation, Noncurrent Assets Business Acquisition, Purchase Price Allocation, Noncurrent Liabilities Business Acquisition, Purchase Price Allocation, Noncurrent Liabilities Business Combination, Acquisition of Less than 100 Percent, Noncontrolling Interest, Fair Value Business Combination, Acquisition of Less than 100 Percent, Noncontrolling Interest, Fair Value Business Acquired, Contractual Obligation Additional Charges Business Acquired, Contractual Obligation Additional Charges Business Acquired, Contractual Obligation Additional Charges Debt Disclosure [Abstract] Debt Debt Disclosure [Text Block] VMM [Member] VMM [Member] VMM [Member] VMM Ownership Percent Disposal Group, Including Discontinued Operation, Goodwill Disposal Group, Including Discontinued Operation, Goodwill Equity interest recorded at deconsolidation of VMM equity interest recorded at deconsolidation of investee Equity interest recorded at deconsolidation of investee 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 Entity Public Float Entity Public Float Fair Value, by Balance Sheet Grouping [Table] Fair Value, by Balance Sheet Grouping [Table] Accounts payable Business Combination, Consideration Transfered - Per Share Amount Business Combination, Consideration Transfered - Per Share Amount Business Combination, Consideration Transfered - Per Share Amount Consolidated Balance Sheets Parenthetical [Abstract] Consolidated Balance Sheets Parenthetical [Abstract] Preferred stock, par value Preferred Stock, Par or Stated Value Per Share Preferred stock, shares authorized Preferred Stock, Shares Authorized Common stock, par value Common Stock, Par or Stated Value Per Share Common stock, shares authorized Common Stock, Shares Authorized Common stock, shares issued Common Stock, Shares, Issued Common stock, shares outstanding Common Stock, Shares, Outstanding Accounts and notes receivable, allowance Allowance for Doubtful Accounts Receivable, Current Short-term and current portion of long-term debt at GM Korea which the creditors do not have recourse to our general credit Short-term And Current Portion Of Long-term Debt At V I Es Which The Creditors Do Not Have Recourse To Our General Credit. Short-term and current portion of long-term debt at VIEs which the creditor do not have recourse to our general credit. Derivative liabilities at GM Korea which the creditors do not have recourse to our general credit Derivative Liabilities at VIEs which Creditors do not have Recourse to our General Credit Derivative liabilities at VIEs which the creditors do not have recourse to our general credit. Long-term debt at GM Korea which the creditors do not have resource to our general credit Long Term Debt At V I Es Which The Creditors Do Not Have Resource To Our General Credit Long-term debt at VIEs which the creditors do not have recourse to our general credit Finance receivables, transferred to special purpose entities Finance Receivables Transferred to Special Purpose Entities Finance Receivables Transferred to Special Purpose Entities Leased assets, net transferred to special purpose entities Capital Leases, Balance Sheet, Assets by Major Class, Net Preferred stock, shares issued Preferred Stock, Shares Issued Preferred stock, shares outstanding Preferred Stock, Shares Outstanding Preferred stock, liquidation preference Cash Flow Parenthetical [Abstract] Cash Flow Parenthetical [Abstract] Reorganization cash payments Reorganization cash payments The amount of cash payments associated with the reorganization gains incurred in the bankruptcy proceedings and 363 sales transaction during the reporting period.