Earnings Per Share [Abstract] Earnings Per Share [Text Block] Earnings Per Share [Text Block] Inventory Disclosure [Abstract] Inventories [Text Block] Inventory Disclosure [Text Block] Statement of Cash Flows [Abstract] Statement [Table] Statement [Table] Statement, Business Segments [Axis] Business Segments [Axis] Segment, Business [Domain] Segment [Domain] Automotive [Member] Automotive [Member] Represents the Automotive section for segment consolidation GM Financial [Member] GM Financial [Member] Represents the GM Financial section for segment consolidation. Statement [Line Items] Statement [Line Items] Net cash provided by (used in) operating activities Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Operating Activities Expenditures for property Payments to Acquire Property, Plant, and Equipment Available-for-sale marketable securities, acquisitions Payments to Acquire Available-for-sale Securities Trading marketable securities, acquisitions Payments to Acquire Trading Securities Held-for-investment Available-for-sale marketable securities, liquidations Proceeds from Sale and Maturity of Available-for-sale Securities Trading marketable securities, liquidations Proceeds from Sale of Trading Securities Held-for-investment Acquisition of companies, net of cash acquired Payments to Acquire Businesses, Net of Cash Acquired 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 Purchases and originations of finance receivables Payments to Acquire Receivables Principal collections and recoveries on finance 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, net Purchases of leased vehicles The cash outflow associated with the purchase of leased vehicles. Decrease (increase) in notes receivable Increase (Decrease) in Notes Receivables Other investing activities Payments for (Proceeds from) Other Investing Activities Net cash provided by (used in) investing activities Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Investing Activities 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 Payments to acquire noncontrolling interest Payments to Acquire Additional Interest in Subsidiaries Dividends paid Payments of Dividends Other financing activities Proceeds from (Payments for) Other Financing Activities Net cash provided by (used in) financing activities Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Financing Activities Effect of exchange rate changes on cash and cash equivalents Effect of Exchange Rate on Cash and Cash Equivalents Net increase (decrease) in cash and cash equivalents Cash and Cash Equivalents, Period Increase (Decrease) Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of period Cash and Cash Equivalents, at Carrying Value Cash and cash equivalents at end of period Pensions and Other Postretirement Benefits [Abstract] Pensions and Other Postretirement Benefits [Abstract] Defined Benefit Plans and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans Disclosures [Table] Defined Benefit Plans and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans Disclosures [Table] Tax Affected [Axis] Tax Affected [Axis] Tax Affected [Axis] Pre-tax [Domain] Pre-tax [Domain] [Domain] for Tax Affected [Axis] Pre-tax [Member] Pre-tax [Member] Pre-tax [Member] After tax [Member] After tax [Member] After tax [Member] Pension Plan Amendment Timing [Axis] Pension Plan Amendment Timing [Axis] Pension Plan Amendment Timing Pension Plan Amendment Timing [Domain] Pension Plan Amendment Timing [Domain] Pension Plan Amendment Timing Prior To Pension Plan Amendment [Member] Prior To Pension Plan Amendment [Member] Prior To Pension Plan Amendment After Pension Plan Amendment [Member] After Pension Plan Amendment [Member] After Pension Plan Amendment. Pension Plan Amendment Type [Axis] Pension Plan Amendment Type [Axis] Pension Plan Amendment Type Pension Plan Amendment Type [Domain] Pension Plan Amendment Type [Domain] Pension Plan Amendment Type Pension Plan Split [Member] Pension Plan Split [Member] Pension plan split to create a legally separate new defined benefit pension plan for active and terminated vested participants in addition to the existing pension plan. Partial Pension Plan Settlement [Member] Partial Pension Plan Settlement [Member] Partial pension plan settlement due to lump-sum distributions made to retired plan participants. Pension Plan Amendments [Axis] Pension Plan Amendments [Axis] Includes settlements or amendments to existing pension plans. Pension Plan Amendments [Domain] Pension Plan Amendments [Domain] Includes settlements and amendments to existing pension plans. U.S. Salaried Defined Benefit Pension Plan [Member] U.S. Salaried Defined Benefit Pension Plan [Member] U.S. Salaried Defined Benefit Pension Plan Canadian Salaried Defined Benefit Pension Plan [Member] Canadian Salaried Defined Benefit Pension Plan [Member] Canadian Salaried Defined Benefit Pension Plan Canadian Salaried Healthcare Plan [Member] Canadian Salaried Healthcare Plan [Member] Canadian Salaried Healthcare Plan Legal Services Plan [Member] Legal Services Plan [Member] This plan provides legal services to U.S. hourly employees and retirees. Defined Benefit Plans and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans Disclosures [Axis] Defined Benefit Plans and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans [Axis] Defined Benefit Plans and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans [Domain] Defined Benefit Plans and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans [Domain] US Pension Plans [Member] United States Pension Plans of US Entity, Defined Benefit [Member] Non-US Pension Plans [Member] Foreign Pension Plans, Defined Benefit [Member] US OPEB Plans [Member] United States Postretirement Benefit Plans of US Entity, Defined Benefit [Member] Non-US OPEB Plans [Member] Foreign Postretirement Benefit Plans, Defined Benefit [Member] Defined Benefit Plans and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans Table Text Block [Line Items] Defined Benefit Plans and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans Table Text Block [Line Items] Contributions [Abstract] Plan Contributions [Abstract] Pension plan contributions. Stock Issued During Period, Shares, Employee Benefit Plan Stock Issued During Period, Shares, Employee Benefit Plan 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 Stock Issued During Period, Value, Employee Benefit Plan Defined Benefit Plan, Net Periodic Benefit Cost [Abstract] Defined Benefit Plan, Net Periodic Benefit Cost [Abstract] Service and Administratative cost Service and Administratative cost The actuarial present value of benefits attributed to the pension benefit formula to services rendered by employees during the period and administrative expenses Defined Benefit Plan, Service Cost Defined Benefit Plan, Service Cost Defined Benefit Plan, Interest Cost Defined Benefit Plan, Interest Cost Defined Benefit Plan, Expected Return on Plan Assets Defined Benefit Plan, Expected Return on Plan Assets Defined Benefit Plan, Amortization of Prior Service Cost (Credit) Defined Benefit Plan, Amortization of Prior Service Cost (Credit) Recognized net actuarial (Gains) losses Defined Benefit Plan, Amortization of Gains (Losses) Curtailments, settlements and other losses Curtailments, settlements and other losses The aggregrate amount of net (gains) losses recognized in net period benefit cost due to settlements, curtailments and other adjustments. Defined Benefit Plan, Net Periodic Benefit Cost Defined Benefit Plan, Net Periodic Benefit Cost Significant Plan Amendments, Benefit Modifications and Related Events [Abstract] Significant Plan Amendments, Benefit Modifications and Related Events [Abstract] Includes significant plan amendments, benefit modifications, settlements, remeasurements and related events. Defined Benefit Plan, Curtailments Defined Benefit Plan, Curtailments Number of Eligible Retirees Number of Eligible Retirees Represents the number of retirees and surviving benedficiaries eligible to receive a voluntary lump-sum payment option. Offer Acceptance Rate Offer Acceptance Rate Represents the rate of acceptance for the plan offer. Total Lump-sum Payments Total Lump-sum Payments Total lump-sum payments made to retirees accepting the offer. Number of Salaried Retirees Affected Number Of Salaried Retirees Affected Represents the number of salaried retirees affected by plan changes due to the plan settlement. Additional Plan Funding Additional Plan Funding Represents the estimate for additonal funding as a result of the pension plan settlement. Loan to pension plan Defined Benefit Plan, Contributions by Employer Defined Benefit Plan, Contributions by Employer Income tax expense Income Tax Expense (Benefit) Expected Impact To Earnings Expected Impact To Earnings Represents the total annual expected earnings impact due to pension income changeas a result of the plan settlement. Defined Benefit Plan, Settlements, Benefit Obligation Defined Benefit Plan, Settlements, Benefit Obligation Defined Benefit Plan Liability Increase (Decrease) Defined Benefit Plan, Plan Amendments Defined Benefit Plan, Assumptions Used Calculating Net Periodic Benefit Cost, Discount Rate Defined Benefit Plan, Assumptions Used Calculating Net Periodic Benefit Cost, Discount Rate Defined Benefit Plan, Recognized Net Gain (Loss) Due to Settlements Defined Benefit Plan, Recognized Net Gain (Loss) Due to Settlements Notes Receivable Term Notes Receivable Term Represents the period for collection on the note receivable balance. Net Actuarial Gains (Losses) Pension and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans, Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net Gains (Losses), before Tax Net Actuarial Curtailment Gain Pension and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans, Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net Actuarial Curtailment Gain (Loss), before Tax The pretax net amount of gains and losses that are not yet recognized as a component of net periodic benefit cost, and that are recognized as increases or decreases in other comprehensive income due to the effects of a settlement or curtailment. Prior Service Cost Pension and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans, Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net Prior Service Cost (Credit), before Tax Defined Benefit Plan, Interim Remeasurement Defined Benefit Plan, Interim Remeasurement Represents the change to pension liability and corresponding change to the net actuarial gain/loss component of Accumulated other comprehensive income/loss relating to goodwill impairment testing. Stock Incentive Plans [Abstract] Stock Incentive Plans [Abstract] Disclosure of Stock Incentive Plans [Text Block] Disclosure of Compensation Related Costs, Share-based Payments [Text Block] Equity Method Investments and Joint Ventures [Abstract] Schedule of equity income [Table Text Block] Schedule of equity income [Table Text Block] Schedule of equity in income (loss) of and disposition of interest in nonconsolidated affiliates Schedule of direct ownership of China JVs [Table Text Block] Schedule of Equity Method Investments [Table Text Block] Transactions with nonconsolidated affiliates [Table Text Block] Schedule of Related Party Transactions [Table Text Block] Product Warranties Disclosures [Abstract] Balance at beginning of period Standard Product Warranty Accrual Warranties issued and assumed in period Standard Product Warranty Accrual, Warranties Issued Payments Standard Product Warranty Accrual, Payments Adjustment to pre-existing warranties Standard Product Warranty Accrual, Preexisting, Increase (Decrease) Effects of foreign currency translation Standard Product Warranty Accrual, Currency Translation, Increase (Decrease) Balance at end of period Variable Interest Entities [Abstract] Variable Interest Entities [Abstract] Schedule of NonRecourse Debt [Table Text Block] Schedule of NonRecourse Debt [Table Text Block] Schedule of the liabilities of VIEs for which their creditors do not have recourse to the general credit of the reporting entity. Schedule of Variable Interest Entities [Table Text Block] Schedule of Variable Interest Entities [Table Text Block] Finance Receivables, net [Abstract] Finance Receivables, net [Abstract] Finance receivables, net [Table Text Block] Schedule of Accounts, Notes, Loans and Financing Receivable [Table Text Block] Finance Receivable Activity [Table Text Block] Finance Receivable Activity [Table Text Block] Tabular disclosure of Finance Receivables activities during reporting period (examples include loans purchased, credit losses, principal collections and carrying value adjustments). Finance Receivables Fair Value [Table Text Block] Finance Receivables Fair Value [Table Text Block] Tabular disclosure summarizing the estimated fair value, carrying amount and methods and assumptions used in valuing finance receivables. Accretable Yield [Table Text Block] Accretable Yield [Table Text Block] Tabular disclosure summarizing changes in the accretable yield balance Allowance for Credit Losses on Consumer Financing Receivables [Table Text Block] Allowance for Credit Losses on Financing Receivables [Table Text Block] Consumer 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] Product Warranty Liability [Abstract] Product Warranty Liability [Abstract] Product Warranty Disclosure [Text Block] Product Warranty Disclosure [Text Block] Acquisition and Disposal of Businesses [Abstract] Acquisition and Disposal of Businesses [Abstract] Schedule of Business Acquisitions, by Acquisition [Table] Schedule of Business Acquisitions, by Acquisition [Table] Business Acquisition [Axis] Business Acquisition [Axis] Business Acquisition, Acquiree [Domain] Business Acquisition, Acquiree [Domain] HKJV [Member] HKJV [Member] SAIC GM Investment Limited, General Motors India Private Limited and Chevrolet Sales India Private Limited collectively called India Operation. GMAC SA [Member] GMAC SA [Member] GMAC SA [Member] Business Acquisition [Line Items] Business Acquisition [Line Items] Schedule of Business Acquisitions, by Acquisition [Table Text Block] Schedule of Business Acquisitions, by Acquisition [Table Text Block] Commitments and Contingencies [Abstract] Commitments and Contingencies [Abstract] Schedule of Guarantor Obligations [Table] Schedule of Guarantor Obligations [Table] Range [Axis] Range [Axis] Range [Domain] Range [Domain] Minimum [Member] Minimum [Member] Maximum [Member] Maximum [Member] Segment [Domain] GMNA [Member] GMNA [Member] Represents the GM North America region for segment consolidation. GME [Member] GME [Member] Represents the GM Europe region for segment consolidation. GMIO [Member] GMIO [Member] Represents the GM International Operations region for segment consolidation. GMCL [Member] GMCL [Member] General Motors Canada Limited GMSA [Member] GMSA [Member] Represents the GM South America region for segment consolidation. Guarantor Obligations, Nature [Axis] Guarantor Obligations, Nature [Domain] Accrued Liabilities [Member] Accrued Liabilities [Member] Operating Leases [Member] Operating Leases [Member] A guarantee related to the operating leases residual value Ally Financial Commercial Loans [Member] Guarantee of Indebtedness of Others [Member] Third party comercial loans and other obligations [Member] Guarantee Type, Other [Member] Guarantees of Product Related Claims [Member] Guarantees of other product-related claims. Nova Scotia Claims Litigation [Member] Nova Scotia Claims Litigation [Member] Nova Scotia Claims Litigation Loss Contingencies by Nature of Contingency [Axis] Loss Contingency Nature [Axis] Loss Contingency, Nature [Domain] Loss Contingency, Nature [Domain] Korean Labor [Member] Korean Labor [Member] Korean Labor [Member] Canadian Dealer Litigation [Member] Canadian Dealer Litigation [Member] Canadian Dealer Litigation UAW Lawsuit [Member] UAW Lawsuit [Member] UAW Lawsuit [Member] Commitment and Contingencies [line items] Guarantor Obligations [Line Items] Guarantees [Abstract] Guarantees [Abstract] Liability Recorded Guarantor Obligations, Current Carrying Value Maximum Liability Guarantor Obligations, Maximum Exposure, Undiscounted Liquidation Proceeds from Collateral Guarantor Obligations, Liquidation Proceeds, Monetary Amount Other contingencies [Abstract] Other contingencies except for guarantees. Environmental Liability Accrual for Environmental Loss Contingencies Product Liability Loss Contingency Accrual, Product Liability, Gross Other Litigation Liability Estimated Litigation Liability Environmental Liability [Abstract] Environmental Remediation Obligations [Abstract] 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. 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 Other Litigation-Related Liability and Tax Administrative Matters [Abstract] Other Litigation Related Liability Footnote [Abstract] Other Litigation Related Liability Footnote [Abstract] Indirect Tax Escrow Deposit Range Escrow Deposit Estimated Loss not Accrued For Loss Contingency, Range of Possible Loss, Portion Not Accrued Litigation Claims Loss Contingency, Damages Sought, Value Estimate of Possible Loss Loss Contingency, Estimate of Possible Loss Notes Payable Notes Payable Loans Payable Liabilities Subject to Compromise, Debt and Accrued Interest Liabilities Subject to Compromise Intercompany loans payable compromised in bankruptcy Recorded amount of ntercompany loans payable after compromised in bankruptcy. Estimated Maximum Possible Loss Loss Contingency, Range of Possible Loss, Maximum GME Planned Spending Guarantee [Abstract] Planned Spending Guarantee Footnote [Abstract] Planned Spending Guarantee Footnote [Abstract] Planned Spending Guarantee - Euro Planned Spending Guarantee - Euro Planned spending guarantee amount during the required period. Inventory Pledged as Collateral Pledged Assets, Not Separately Reported, Other Contract Cancellations [Abstract] Contract Cancellations [Abstract] Contract Cancellations [Abstract] Contract Cancellation Charges Gain (Loss) on Contract Termination Basis of Presentation [Abstract] Basis of Presentation [Abstract] Statement, Equity Components [Axis] Equity Components [Axis] Equity Component [Domain] Equity Component [Domain] Capital Surplus [Member] Additional Paid-in Capital [Member] Venezuela [Member] VENEZUELA Basis of Presentation [Line Items] Basis of Presentation [Line Items] Basis of Presentation [Line Items] Net Assets Subject To Foreign Currency Restrictions Net Assets Subject to Foreign Currency Restrictions Net assets subject to foreign currency restrictions Amounts Receivable By Other Subsidiairies From Currency Restricted Subsidiary Amounts Receivable By Other Subsidiairies From Currency Restricted Subsidiary Amounts receivable by reporting entity subsidiairies from currency restricted subsidiary Amounts of Foreign Currency Payment Pending Approval Amounts of Foreign Currency Payment Pending Approval Amounts of foreign currency payment pending for government approval. Capital Expenditures Incurred but Not yet Paid Capital Expenditures Incurred but Not yet Paid Equity in Net Assets of Nonconsolidated Affiliates [Abstract] Equity in Net Assets of Nonconsolidated Affiliates [Abstract] Schedule of Equity Method Investment, Equity Method Investee, Name [Axis] Equity Method Investee, Name [Axis] Equity Method Investee, Name [Domain] Equity Method Investee, Name [Domain] Nonconsolidated Affiliates [Member] Equity Method Investee [Member] Income Statement [Abstract] Income Statement [Abstract] Automotive Sales and Revenue Revenue from Related Parties Automotive Purchases, Net Related Parties Amount in Cost of Sales Automotive Selling, General and Administrative Expense Related Party Transaction, Expenses from Transactions with Related Party Automotive Interest Expense Interest Expense, Related Party Interest Income and Other Non-operating Income, Net Nonoperating Income (Expense) Statement of Financial Position [Abstract] Statement of Financial Position [Abstract] Accounts and notes receivable, net Due from Related Parties Accounts and notes payable Due to Related Parties Deferred Revenue and Customer Deposits Deferred Revenue Statement of Cash Flows [Abstract] Operating Cash Flow Investing Cash Flow Income Taxes [Abstract] Income Taxes [Abstract] Income Tax Expense (Benefit), Continuing Operations Income Tax Expense (Benefit), Continuing Operations Income Tax Examination [Table] Income Tax Examination [Table] Scenario [Axis] Scenario [Axis] Scenario, Unspecified [Domain] Scenario, Unspecified [Domain] Period Start [Member] Period Start [Member] The starting year (or month or date) of a period under disclosure. Period End [Member] Period End [Member] The ending year (or month or date) of a period under disclosure. Income Tax Authority [Axis] Income Tax Authority [Axis] Income Tax Authority [Domain] Income Tax Authority [Domain] Mexico 2004 [Member] Mexico 2004 [Member] Mexico 2004 tax assessment Mexico [Member] Mexico [Member] Mexico Brazil [Member] Brazil [Member] Represents the Brazilian region for the disclosure. Income Tax Examination [Line Items] Income Tax Examination [Line Items] Open tax years Open Tax Year Foreign tax assessment Foreign Tax Assessment Total amount of tax, interest, and penalties related to foreign tax assessment. Earnings Per Share [Table] Schedule of Earnings Per Share, Diluted, by Common Class, Including Two Class Method [Table] Class of Stock [Axis] Class of Stock [Axis] Class of Stock [Domain] Class of Stock [Domain] Earnings Per Share, Basic [Member] Earnings Per Share, Diluted [Member] Preferred Stock [Axis] Preferred Stock [Axis] Preferred Stock [Domain] Preferred Stock [Domain] Series A Preferred Stock [Member] Series A Preferred Stock [Member] Series B Preferred Stock [Member] Series B Preferred Stock [Member] Holder of Warrants [Axis] Holder of Warrants [Axis] Holder of Warrants [Axis] Holder of Warrants [Domain] Holder of Warrants [Domain] Holder of Warrants [Domain] MLC [Member] MLC [Member] MLC entity (Motors Liquidation Company). Earnings (Loss) Per Share [Line Items] Earnings Per Share, Diluted, by Common Class, Including Two Class Method [Line Items] Net income attributable to stockholders Net Income (Loss) Attributable to Parent Less: cumulative dividends on and undistributed earnings allocated to Series B Preferred Stock participating security Preferred Stock Dividends and Other Adjustments Preferred Stock Dividends, Income Statement Impact Preferred Stock Dividends, Income Statement Impact Net income (loss) attributable to common stockholders Net Income (Loss) Available to Common Stockholders, Basic Basic earnings per common share Earnings Per Share, Basic Net income (loss) attibutable to common stockholders Net Income (Loss) Available to Common Stockholders, Diluted Weighted-average common shares outstanding - basic Weighted Average Number of Shares Outstanding, Basic Dilutive effect of warrants Incremental Common Shares Attributable to Call Options and Warrants Incremental Common Shares Attributable to Conversion of Preferred Stock Incremental Common Shares Attributable to Conversion of Preferred Stock Divlutive effect of restricted stock units Incremental Common Shares Attributable to Share-based Payment Arrangements Weighted-average common shares outstanding - diluted Weighted Average Number of Shares Outstanding, Diluted Diluted earnings per common share Earnings Per Share, Diluted Earned but Undistributed Dividends Preferred Stock, Amount of Preferred Dividends in Arrears Dividends Allocated to Series B Preferred Stock Dividends, Preferred Stock Earnings Allocated to Series B Preferred Stock Undistributed Earnings Allocated to Participating Securities Preferred Stock Assumed Converted Preferred Stock Assumed Converted Common stock equivalents from the assumed conversion of the 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. Warrants Outstanding Class of Warrant or Right, Outstanding Warrants Excluded from EPS Antidilutive Securities Excluded from Computation of Earnings Per Share, Amount Unvested RSUs outstanding Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Nonvested, Number Lower share price boundary for two class method Lower share price boundary for two class method Lower Share price boundary for two class method Stock issued during period, shares, employee benefit Delinquency [Abstract] Delinquency [Abstract] Schedule of Financing Receivables Past Due [Table] Schedule of Financing Receivables Past Due [Table] Financing Receivable, Recorded Investment, by Class of Financing Receivable [Axis] Class of Financing Receivable [Axis] Financing Receivable, Recorded Investment, Class of Financing Receivable [Domain] Class of Financing Receivable [Domain] Consumer Financing Receivable [Member] Consumer Loans Auto Financing Receivable [Member] Deliquent Contract by Repossession [Axis] Deliquent Contract by Repossession [Axis] Deliquent contracts either in repossession or not yet in repossession. Delinquent Contract by Repossession [Domain] Delinquent Contract by Repossession [Domain] Delinquent Contract by Repossession Delinquent Contract Not Yet in Repossession [Member] Delinquent Contract Not Yet in Repossession [Member] Delinquent contract not yet in repossession. Delinquent Contract in Repossession [Member] Delinquent Contract in Repossession [Member] Delinquent contract in repossession. Deliquent Contract Pass Due [Axis] Deliquent Contract Pass Due [Axis] Deliquent contract pass due by number of days. Deliquent Contract Past Due Accounts [Domain] Deliquent Contract Past Due Accounts [Domain] Deliquent contract past due accounts 31-to-60 days [Member] 31-to-60 days [Member] 31-to-60 days past due Greater-than-60 Days [Member] Greater-than-60 Days [Member] Greater-than-60 days pass due Financing Receivable, Recorded Investment, Past Due [Line Items] Financing Receivable, Recorded Investment, Past Due [Line Items] Financing Receivable, Past Due Financing Receivable, Recorded Investment, Past Due Percent of Contractual Amount Due Percent of Contractual Amount Due Delinquent accounts to contractual amount due, as a percentage 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] Classification of Restricted Cash and Marketable Securities [Table Text Block] Classification of Restricted Cash and Marketable Securities [Table Text Block] Schedule to present the classification of Restricted cash and marketable securities in current and non-current portion. Investments Classified by Contractual Maturity Date [Table Text Block] Investments Classified by Contractual Maturity Date [Table Text Block] Goodwill [Abstract] Goodwill [Abstract] Goodwill Disclosure [Text Block] Goodwill Disclosure [Text Block] Segment Reporting [Abstract] Schedule of Segment Reporting Information, by Segment [Table Text Block] Schedule of Segment Reporting Information, by Segment [Table Text Block] Intangible Assets, net [Abstract] Intangible Assets, net [Abstract] Schedule of Finite-Lived Intangible Assets by Major Class [Table] Schedule of Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Table] Finite-Lived Intangible Assets by Major Class [Axis] Finite-Lived Intangible Assets by Major Class [Axis] Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Major Class Name [Domain] Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Major Class Name [Domain] Technology and intellectual property [Member] Unpatented Technology [Member] Brands [Member] Trade Names [Member] Dealer Network and Customer Relationships [Member] Customer Relationships [Member] Favorable contracts [Member] Contractual Rights [Member] Other [Member] Other Intangible Assets [Member] Intangible Assets [Line Items] Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items] Gross Carrying Amount Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Gross Accumulated Amortization Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Accumulated Amortization Net Carrying Amount Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Net Non amortizing in process research and development Indefinite-Lived Intangible Assets (Excluding Goodwill) Total Intangible Assets, Gross Total Intangible Assets, Gross Sum of the amounts of all intangible assets, excluding goodwill, as of the balance sheet date, before accumulated amortization and impairment charges. Total Intangible Assets, Net Intangible Assets, Net (Excluding Goodwill) Amortization Expense Related to Intangible Assets Amortization of Intangible Assets Future Amortization Expense [Abstract] Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Net, Amortization Expense, Fiscal Year Maturity [Abstract] 2013 Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Amortization Expense, Next Twelve Months 2014 Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Amortization Expense, Year Two 2015 Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Amortization Expense, Year Three 2016 Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Amortization Expense, Year Four 2017 Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Amortization Expense, Year Five Commitment and contingencies [Table Text Block] Commitment and contingencies [Table Text Block] Tabular disclosure of commitment and contingencies at the end of the reporting period, including but not limited to liability recorded and maximum exposure etc. Contract Cancellations [Table Text Block] Contract Cancellations [Table Text Block] Tabular disclosure of contract cancellation charges during the reporting periods Schedule of Product Warranty Liability [Table Text Block] Schedule of Product Warranty Liability [Table Text Block] Schedule of Earnings Per Share, Basic and Diluted [Table Text Block] Schedule of Earnings Per Share, Basic and Diluted [Table Text Block] Restructuring and Other Initiatives [Abstract] Restructuring and Other Initiatives [Abstract] Schedule of Restructuring and Related Costs [Table] Schedule of Restructuring and Related Costs [Table] Restructuring Type [Axis] Restructuring Type [Axis] Type of Restructuring [Domain] Type of Restructuring [Domain] Voluntary Separation Program in Korea [Member] Voluntary Separation Program in Korea [Member] Voluntary separation program in Korea. 2012 Canada Auto Workers Union Labor Agreement [Member] 2012 Canada Auto Workers Union Labor Agreement [Member] 2012 Canada Auto Workers Union Labor Agreement. 2011 UAW Labor Agreement [Member] 2011 UAW Labor Agreement [Member] 2011 UAW Labor Agreement Germany Separation Program [Member] Germany Separation Program [Member] Germany separation program. Separation Program in Brazil [Member] Separation Program in Brazil [Member] Separation program in Brazil. Dealer Wind-Down [Member] Dealer Wind-Down [Member] Dealer wind-down Restructuring Cost and Reserve [Line Items] Restructuring Cost and Reserve [Line Items] Restructuring Reserve, Accrual Adjustment Restructuring Reserve, Accrual Adjustment Restructuring Reserve [Abstract] Restructuring Reserve [Abstract] Restructuring Reserve Beginning Balance Restructuring Reserve Additions Restructuring Charges Interest accretion and other Restructuring Interest Accretion and Other Restructuring Interest Accretion and Other. Payments Restructuring Reserve, Settled with Cash Effect of foreign currency Restructuring Reserve, Translation Adjustment Restructuring Reserve Ending Balance Remaining Payments Including Temporary Layoffs Benefits Remaining Payments Including Temporary Layoffs Benefits The amount of temporary layoffs benefits included in the payments related to restructuring and other initiatives. Restructuring Reserve, Period Decrease Restructuring Reserve Changes due to Charges Interet Accretion and Revision to Estimate Restructuring reserve changes due to charges recorded during the period, interest accretion and other and the revisions to the reserves previously estimated during the reporting period. Restructuring and Related Activities, Completion Date Restructuring Charges, Interest Accretion and Other Restructuring charges, interest accretion, and revisions to estimates and other related charges recorded during the reporting period. Restructuring and Related Activities [Abstract] Restructuring and Related Activities [Abstract] Number of Skilled Hourly Employees Number of Skilled Hourly Employees Number of skilled hourly employees in cash severance incentive programs. Total Cost of Separation Programs Restructuring and Related Cost, Cost Incurred to Date Additional Cost Expected to Incurr Restructuring and Related Cost, Expected Cost Number of Employees Affected Number of Employees Affected Number of employees affected by restructuring and early retirement programs. Number Of Additional Employees Affected Number Of Additional Employees Affected Number of additional employees affected by restructuring and early retirement program in the future. Schedule of Other Significant Noncash Transactions [Table Text Block] Schedule of Other Significant Noncash Transactions [Table Text Block] Schedule of Restructuring and Related Costs [Table Text Block] Schedule of Restructuring and Related Costs [Table Text Block] Schedule of Restructuring Reserve by Type of Cost [Table Text Block] Schedule of Restructuring Reserve by Type of Cost [Table Text Block] 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] Debt carrying amount and fair value [Table Text Block] Schedule of Carrying Values and Estimated Fair Values of Debt Instruments [Table Text Block] Schedule of Line of Credit Facilities [Table Text Block] Schedule of Line of Credit Facilities [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. Short-Term and Long-Term Debt [Abstract] Short-Term and Long-Term Debt [Abstract] Line of Credit Facility [Table] Line of Credit Facility [Table] Fair Value, Hierarchy [Axis] Fair Value, Hierarchy [Axis] Fair Value, Measurements, Fair Value Hierarchy [Domain] Fair Value, Measurements, Fair Value Hierarchy [Domain] Level 1 [Member] Fair Value, Inputs, Level 1 [Member] Level 2 [Member] Fair Value, Inputs, Level 2 [Member] Level 3 [Member] Fair Value, Inputs, Level 3 [Member] Debt Instrument [Axis] Debt Instrument, Name [Domain] Medium-term note facility [Member] Medium-term Notes [Member] Sydicated warehouse facility [Member] Sydicated warehouse facility [Member] Sydicated warehouse facility Lease funding facility [Member] Canada Leasing Warehouse Facility [Member] Canada Leasing Warehouse Facility Bank Funding Facility [Member] Bank funding facility [Member] Bank funding facility US Lease Warehouse Facility [Member] U.S. Lease Warehouse [Member] U.S. Lease Warehouse [Member] Other securitization notes payable [Member] Other securitization notes payable [Member] Securitization notes payable other than private securitization Private securitization [Member] Private securitization [Member] Private securitization Senior Notes [Member] Senior Notes [Member] Short term and long term debt [Line Items] Line of Credit Facility [Line Items] Short-term debt and current portion of long-term debt Debt, Current Long-term debt Long-term Debt and Capital Lease Obligations Total Debt Debt, Long-term and Short-term, Combined Amount Debt, fair value Debt, fair value The fair value amount of long-term and short-term debt whether such amount is presented as a separate caption or as a parenthetical disclosure. Additionally, this element may be used in connection with the fair value disclosures required in the footnote disclosures to the financial statements. The element may be used in both the balance sheet and disclosure in the same submission. Repayments of Debt Repayments of Debt Extinguishment of Debt, Amount Extinguishment of Debt, Amount Loss on Extinguishment of Debt Gains (Losses) on Extinguishment of Debt Credit facilities, carrying amount Line of Credit Facility, Amount Outstanding Credit facilities, fair value Line of Credit Facility, Fair Value of Amount Outstanding Securitized Notes Payable, Carrying Amount 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. Securitization notes payable, fair value Securitization notes payable, fair value The fair value measurement of securitized debt issued by securitization trusts to third-party investors accounted for as secured borrowings. Senior notes and convertible senior notes Debt Instrument, Face Amount Registration Statement Effective Term Registration Statement Effective Term Period from the date of the issuance of the senior notes to the date that the registration statement is declared effective. Senior notes and convertible senior notes, fair value Senior Notes and Convertible Senior Notes, Fair Value The fair value of the amount outstanding at the balance sheet date related to senior notes and convertible senior notes 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 Facility Amount Line of Credit Facility, Maximum Borrowing Capacity Assets Pledged as Collateral Restricted Cash Pledged Restricted Cash and Cash Equivalents Cash Collected on Finance Receivables Pledged Cash Collected on Finance Receivables Pledged Excluded from Restricted Cash Pledged Amount of cash collected on finance receivables pledged and excluded from restricted cash pledged Line of Credit Facility, Expiration Date Line of Credit Facility, Expiration Date Debt Instrument, Interest Rate, Stated Percentage Debt Instrument, Interest Rate, Stated Percentage Debt maturity date Debt maturity date Debt maturity date. Registration Payment Arrangement, Maximum Potential Consideration Additional Interest Per Week Additional interest per week per $1000 of principal reporting entity is required to pay the holders of the senior note during the time the registration statement is not effective. Additional Interest Per Principal Balance Unit Principal Amount for Additional Interest The amount of principal based on which the weekly interest penalty will be applied during the time the registration statement is not effective Schedule of Finite-Lived Intangible Assets by Major Class [Table Text Block] Schedule of Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Table Text Block] Schedule of Finite-Lived Intangible Assets Amortization Expense [Table Text Block] Schedule of Finite-Lived Intangible Assets Amortization Expense [Table Text Block] Tabular disclosure of amortization expense for finite-lived intangible assets. Schedule of Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Future Amortization Expense [Table Text Block] Schedule of Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Future Amortization Expense [Table Text Block] 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 Derivative Financial Instruments and Risk Management [Abstract] Derivative Financial Instruments and Risk Management [Abstract] Fair Values Derivatives, Balance Sheet Location, by Derivative Contract Type [Table] Fair Values Derivatives, Balance Sheet Location, by Derivative Contract Type [Table] Derivatives, Fair Value [Line Items] Derivatives, Fair Value [Line Items] Fair Value of Derivatives in Statement of Financial Position [Table Text Block] Schedule of Derivative Instruments in Statement of Financial Position, Fair Value [Table Text Block] Fair Value of Derivatives by Level of Inputs [Table Text Block] Fair Value, Measurement Inputs, Disclosure [Table Text Block] Fair Value Inputs, Liabilities, Quantitative Information [Table Text Block] Fair Value Inputs, Assets, Quantitative Information [Table Text Block] Fair Value Inputs, Assets, Quantitative Information [Table Text Block] Level 3 Rollforward [Table Text Block] Fair Value, Assets Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation [Table Text Block] Gain and Loss on Derivatives [Table Text Block] Schedule of Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss) in Statement of Financial Performance [Table Text Block] 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] Current Allowance for Notes, Loans and Financing Receivable, Current Noncurrent Allowance for Notes, Loans and Financing Receivable, Noncurrent Financing Receivable, Allowance for Credit Losses Financing Receivable, Allowance for Credit Losses Provision for loan losses Provision for Loan, Lease, and Other Losses Charge-offs Financing Receivable, Allowance for Credit Losses, Write-downs Recoveries Financing Receivable, Allowance for Credit Losses, Recovery Transactions with investee [Abstract] Transactions with investee [Abstract] Financial Statements Effects and Maximum Obligations [Table Text Block] Financial Statements effects and max obligations [Table Text Block] Tabular ummary of the financial statement effects and maximum obligations under agreements with the investee. Transactions With Ally Financial [Table Text Block] Transactions with investee [Table Text Block] Summary of the impact to the reporting entity's financial statements resulting from transactions with its investees. Equity Investment In Investee [Table Text Block] Equity investment in investee [Table Text Block] The carrying amount and fair value of investment in investee common and preferred stock. Debt Disclosure [Abstract] Debt Disclosure [Text Block] Debt Disclosure [Text Block] Pension and Other Postretirement Benefits Disclosure [Text Block] Pension and Other Postretirement Benefits Disclosure [Text Block] RSU [Abstract] RSU [Abstract] Schedule of Share-based Compensation Arrangements by Share-based Payment Award [Table] Schedule of Share-based Compensation Arrangements by Share-based Payment Award [Table] Award Type [Axis] Award Type [Axis] Award Type [Domain] Award Type [Domain] Long-Term Incentive Plan [Member] Long-Term Incentive Plan [Member] Long-Term Incentive Plan [Member] Restricted Stock Units (RSUs) [Member] Stock Incentive Plans [Line Items] Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items] RSU Shares [Roll Forward] Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Non-Option Equity Instruments, Outstanding [Roll Forward] RSUs Outstanding Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Non-Option Equity Instruments, Outstanding, Number Granted Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Grants in Period Settled Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Vested in Period Forfeited or expired Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Forfeited in Period RSUs Unvested and Expected to Vest RSUs unvested and expected to vest At the balance sheet date, the number of outstanding un-vested equity-based payment instruments, excluding stock (or unit) options, that are expected to vest. RSUs Vested and Payable RSUs vested and payable The number of equity-based payment instruments, excluding stock (or unit) options, that are vested and payable at balance sheet. RSU Grant Date Fair Value [Abstract] Fair Value Disclosures [Abstract] Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value The weighted average grant date fair value of awards on equity-based plans excluding option plans (for example, phantom stock or unit plan, stock or unit appreciation rights plan, revenue or profit achievement stock award plan) for shares outstanding at the balance sheet date. Grants in Period, Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Grants in Period, Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value Settled, Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Vested in Period, Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value Forfeited or expired, Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Forfeitures, Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value RSUs Grant Date Fair Value, Unvested and Expected to Vest RSU weighted-average grant date fair value unvested and expected to vest Weighted average grant date fair value for unvested RSUs that are expected to vest at the end of the reporting period. RSUs Grant Date Fair Value, Vested and Payable RSUs weighted-average grant date fair value vested and payable Weighted average fair value for RSUs vested and payable at the end of the reporting period Remaining Contractual Term [Abstract] Remaining Contractual Term [Abstract] Remaining Contractual Term [Abstract] Weighted Average Remaining Contractual Term Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Outstanding, Weighted Average Remaining Contractual Terms RSUs Weighted Average Remaining Contractual Terms, Unvested and Expected to Vest Weighted Average Remaining Contractual Terms unvested and expected to vest The weighted average remaining contractual terms for equity-based awards excluding options, unvested and expected to vest at balance sheet date. RSUs Weighted Average Remaining Contractual Terms Vested and Payable Weighted Average Remaining Contractual Terms Vested and Payable The weighted average remaining contractual terms for equity-based awards excluding options vested and payable at balance sheet date. Share-based Compensation (Narratives) [Abstract] Share-based Compensation [Abstract] RSUs Reclassified From Equity to Liability Share-based compensation awards reclassified from equity to liability during the period Share-based compensation awards reclassified from equity to liability during the period. Share-based Compensation Expense Allocated Share-based Compensation Expense Unrecognized Compensation Expense For Nonvested Equity Awards Employee Service Share-based Compensation, Nonvested Awards, Total Compensation Cost Not yet Recognized Weighted Average in Years for Total Unrecognized Compensation Expense Employee Service Share-based Compensation, Nonvested Awards, Total Compensation Cost Not yet Recognized, Period for Recognition Fair Value of Vested RSUs Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Vested in Period, Total Fair Value Marketable Securities Marketable Securities [Table Text Block] Transactions with Ally Financial [Text Block] Transactions with investee [Text Block] Transactions with investee [Text Block] Equity In Net Assets Of Nonconsolidated Affiliates Equity Method Investments and Joint Ventures Disclosure [Text Block] Schedule of Goodwill [Table Text Block] Schedule of Goodwill [Table Text Block] Goodwill Impairment Charges [Table Text Block] Goodwill impairment charges [Table Text Block] Goodwill impairment charges for periods presented in tabular presentation. Goodwill balances and key assumptions [Table Text Block] Goodwill balances and key assumptions [Table Text Block] Goodwill balances and key assumptions used for Step 2 impairment test Productive material, supplies and work in process Inventory, Work in Process and Raw Materials, Net of Reserves Finished product, including service parts Inventory, Finished Goods, Net of Reserves Total inventories Inventory, Net Financing Receivables [Text Block] Financing Receivables [Text Block] Schedule of Long-term Debt Instruments [Table] Schedule of Long-term Debt Instruments [Table] 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] 2012 Transactions [Member] 2012 Transactions [Member] 2012 Transactions [Member] Securitization notes payable [Line Items] Debt Instrument [Line Items] Total Receivables Pledged Receivabels Pledged to Securitization Trust Receivabels pledged to securitization trust Secured Debt Secured Debt Purchase accounting premium Debt Instrument, Unamortized Premium Securitized Notes Payable Debt Instrument, Maturity Date Range, Start Debt Instrument, Maturity Date Range, End Original Note Amounts - Minimum Minimum original note amounts for the transaction year. Original Note Amounts - Maximum Maximum original note amounts for the transaction year. Original Weighted-Average Interest Rate - Minimum Original weighted-average interest rate - minimum for the transaction year. Original Weighted-Average Interest Rate - Maximum Original weighted-average interest rate - maximum for the transaction year. Nature of Operations [Abstract] Nature of Operations [Abstract] Nature Of Operations Nature of Operations [Text Block] Income Tax Expense (Benefit) [Abstract] Income Taxes Income Tax Disclosure [Text Block] Derivative, by Nature [Axis] Derivative, by Nature [Axis] Derivative, Name [Domain] Derivative, Name [Domain] Coal [Member] Coal [Member] Coal [Member] Heavy Fuel Oil [Member] Heavy Fuel Oil [Member] Heavy Fuel Oil [Member] Euro/Turkish Lira Exchange Rate [Member] Euro/Turkish Lira Exchange Rate [Member] Euro/Turkish Lira Exchange Rate [Member] Derivative Instrument Risk [Axis] Derivative Instrument Risk [Axis] Derivative Contract Type [Domain] Derivative Contract Type [Domain] Foreign Exchange Contract [Member] Foreign Exchange Contract [Member] Commodity Contract [Member] Commodity Contract [Member] Embedded Derivative Financial Instruments [Member] Embedded Derivative Financial Instruments [Member] Warrant [Member] Warrant [Member] Interest Rate Swap [Member] Interest Rate Swap [Member] Derivative Financial Instruments, Assets [Member] Derivative Financial Instruments, Assets [Member] Derivative Financial Instruments, Liabilities [Member] Derivative Financial Instruments, Liabilities [Member] Notional Amount of Derivatives Derivative, Notional Amount Derivative Assets, Current Derivative Assets, Current Derivative Assets, Noncurrent Derivative Assets, Noncurrent Derivative Liabilities, Current Derivative Liabilities, Current Derivative Liabilities, Noncurrent Derivative Liabilities, Noncurrent Derivative Asset, Fair Value Derivative Asset, Fair Value, Gross Asset Derivative Liability, Fair Value Derivative Liability, Fair Value, Gross Liability Fair value of Derivatives Unobservable Inputs [Abstract] Fair value of Derivatives [Abstract] Fair value of Derivatives [Abstract] Forward Contract Price Derivative, Forward Price Supplier nonperformance risk Supplier nonperformance risk Unobservable input for derivative instrument measured on a recurring basis - supplier nonperformance risk Forward Exchange Rate Derivative, Forward Exchange Rate Volume commitment and vehicle mix Long-term Purchase Commitment, Amount Fair Value of Derivatives, Unobservable Input Reconciliation [Roll Forward] Fair Value, Assets Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation, Calculation [Roll Forward] Balance at Beginning of Period Fair Value, Measurement with Unobservable Inputs Reconciliation, Recurring Basis, Asset Value Realized Unrealized Gain (Loss) Included in Earnings Fair Value, Measurement with Unobservable Inputs Reconciliation, Recurring Basis, Asset, Gain (Loss) Included in Earnings Realized Unrealized Gain (Loss) Included in Other Comprehensive Income Fair Value, Measurement with Unobservable Inputs Reconciliation, Recurring Basis, Gain (Loss) Included in Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) Settlements Fair Value, Measurement with Unobservable Inputs Reconciliation, Recurring Basis, Asset, Settlements Issuances Fair Value, Measurement with Unobservable Inputs Reconciliation, Recurring Basis, Asset, Issues Transfers in/out of Level 3 Fair Value, Measurement with Unobservable Inputs Reconciliation, Recurring Basis, Asset, Transfers, Net Balance at End of Period Gain (Loss) on Derivative [Abstract] Derivative, Gain (Loss) on Derivative, Net [Abstract] Gains and (losses) in earnings attributable to the change in unrealized gains or (losses) relating to assets still held at the reporting date Fair Value, Assets Measured on Recurring Basis, Change in Unrealized Gain (Loss) Included in Other Income Gains (Losses) Recorded in Other Nonoperating Income (Expense) Derivative, Gain (Loss) on Derivative, Net Other Derivatives [Abstract] Other Derivatives [Abstract] Other Derivatives [Abstract] Number of common stock shares warrants are called for Class of Warrant or Right, Number of Securities Called by Warrants or Rights Exercise price for warrants Class of Warrant or Right, Exercise Price of Warrants or Rights Proceeds from Warrant Exercises Proceeds from Warrant Exercises GM Financial Derivatives [Abstract] Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities Disclosure [Abstract] Derivative Asset, Notional Amount Derivative Asset, Notional Amount Derivative Liability, Notional Amount Derivative Liability, Notional Amount Property, net [Abstract] Property, net [Abstract] Schedule of Property, Plant and Equipment [Table] Property, Plant and Equipment by Type [Axis] Property, Plant and Equipment, Type [Axis] Property, Plant and Equipment, Type [Domain] Property, Plant and Equipment, Type [Domain] Long-lived assets [Member] Long-lived assets [Member] Long-lived assets [Member] Equipment on Operating Leases [Member] Assets Leased to Others [Member] Depreciation, Amortization and Impairment Charges [Line Items] Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items] Depreciation and amortization Depreciation Impairment Charges Tangible Asset Impairment Charges Equipment on Operating Leases, Fair Value [Abstract] Equipment on Operating Leases [Abstract] Equipment on Operating Leases [Abstract] Assets Fair Value, Nonrecurring Assets Fair Value, Nonrecurring This element represents the aggregate of the assets measured at fair value on a nonrecurring basis by the entity. This element is intended to be used in connection with the fair value disclosures required in the footnote disclosures to the financial statements. Estimated Revenue, Fair Value Input Estimated Revenue, Fair Value Input The estimated future revenue used for fair value measurment for equipment on operating leases. Estimated Cost, Fair Value Input Estimated Cost, Fair Value Input The estimated future cost used in fair value measurment for equipment on operating leases. Components of Net Periodic Pension and OPEB Expense [Table Text Block] Schedule of Net Benefit Costs [Table Text Block] Schedule of Accounts, Notes, Loans and Financing Receivable [Table] Schedule of Accounts, Notes, Loans and Financing Receivable [Table] Finance Receivable by Occurence [Axis] Finance Receivable by Occurence [Axis] Finance Receivable by Occurence [Axis] Finance Receivable by Occurence [Domain] Pre-acquisition [Domain] Pre-acquisition Pre-acquisition [Member] Pre-acquisition [Member] Before the acquisition of the reporting entity. Post-acquisition [Member] Post-acquisition [Member] After the acquisition of the reporting entity. Financing Receivable Information by Portfolio Segment [Axis] Portfolio Segment [Axis] Financing Receivable Allowance [Domain] Financing Receivable Allowance [Domain] Commercial Lending Program [Member] Commercial Portfolio Segment [Member] Finance Receivable [Line Items] Accounts, Notes, Loans and Financing Receivable [Line Items] Current Notes, Loans and Financing Receivable, Net, Current Noncurrent Notes, Loans and Financing Receivable, Net, Noncurrent Financing Receivable, Net Financing Receivable, Net Pre-Acquisition Consumer Finance Receivables Outstanding Balance Pre-Acquisition Finance Receivables Outstanding Balance Finance receivable before the adjustment to fair value prior to the acquistion. Financing Receivable, Gross Financing Receivable, Gross Allowance for Loan Losses Loans Originated or Purchased Payments to Acquire Loans Receivable Charge-offs Allowance for Loan and Lease Losses, Write-offs Principal Collections and Other Proceeds from Collection of Finance Receivables Change in Carrying Value Adjustment Change in Carrying Value Adjustment Amount pertains to the change of the carrying amount adjustment of the pre-acquisition finance receivables. GM Financial Finance Receivable, Fair Value Notes Receivable, Fair Value Disclosure Consumer Finance Receivable on Non-accrual Status Financing Receivable, Recorded Investment, Nonaccrual Status Schedule of Segment Reporting Information, by Segment [Table] New Delphi [Member] New Delphi [Member] New Delphi [Member] Ally Financial [Member] Ally Financial [Member] Investment in Ally Financial Common Stock. Parent [Member] Parent [Member] Statement, Operating Activities Segment [Axis] Statement, Operating Activities Segment [Axis] Segment, Operating Activities [Domain] Segment, Operating Activities [Domain] Corporate [Member] Corporate [Member] Intersegment Elimination [Member] Corporate Elimination [Member] Segment Reporting Information [Line Items] Segment Reporting Information [Line Items] Goodwill impairment charges Goodwill, Impairment Loss Revenue and others for Reportable Segment [Abstract] Segment Reporting Information, Revenue for Reportable Segment [Abstract] External customers Revenue from External Customers GM Financial revenue Financial Services 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 Includes items that are not part of the normal operating cycle of ongoing operations including gains/losses on disposition or acquisition of businesses or investments, gains/losses on extinguishment of debt, impairment of investments, impairment of goodwill, settlement losses on pension plans and establishment or reversal of deferred tax asset valuation allowances. Corporate interest income Investment Income, Interest Automotive interest expense Interest Expense Loss on Extinguishment of Debt 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. Net income attributable to stockholders Equity in net assets of nonconsolidated affiliates Equity Method Investments Expenditures for property Segment Reporting Information, Expenditures for Additions to Long-Lived Assets Total Assets Assets Depreciation, amortization and impairment of long-lived assets and finite-lived intangible assets Depreciation Amortization And Impairment Of Long Lived Assets And Finite Lived Intangible Assets 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; including the charge against earnings resulting from the aggregate write down of tangible and intangible assets from their carrying value to their fair value. Equity income, net of tax and gain on Investments Equity Income (Loss) and Gain on 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 and the impairment charges related to the investment in non-consolidated entities. Significant non-cash charges not classified as adjustments in [Abstract] Significantnoncash charges (gains) [Abstract] Total significant non-cash charges Segment Reporting Information, Significant Noncash Items Other than Depreciation, Depletion, and Amortization Expense Gain on sale of New Delphi Class A membership interest Gain (Loss) on Sale of Stock in Subsidiary or Equity Method Investee Charges related to HKJV 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. Gain on sale of Ally Financial preferred stock Cost-method Investments, Realized Gains Marketable Securities Gains and Losses & Fair Value [Abstract] Marketable Securities Gains and Losses & Fair Value [Abstract] Schedule of Marketable Securities [Table] Schedule of Marketable Securities [Table] Schedule of marketable securities which may include the cost, unrealized gain and loss, and fair value of the marketable securities by categories. Restricted Cash and Cash Equivalents, Cash and Cash Equivalents [Axis] Restricted Cash and Cash Equivalents [Axis] Restricted Cash and Cash Equivalents, Cash and Cash Equivalents [Domain] Cash and Cash Equivalents [Domain] Cash and Cash Equivalents [Member] Cash and Cash Equivalents [Member] Marketable Securities - Current [Member] Marketable Securities - Current [Member] Marketable Securities - Current [Member] Marketable Securities - Noncurrent [Member] Marketable Securities - Noncurrent [Member] Marketable Securities - Noncurrent [Member] Restricted cash and marketable securities [Member] Restricted cash and marketable securities [Member] Restricted cash and marketable securities. Fair Value by Asset Class [Axis] Asset Class [Axis] Fair Value, Assets Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation, by Asset Class [Domain] Fair Value by Asset Class [Domain] US government and agencies [Member] US Treasury and Government [Member] Sovereign debt [Member] Foreign Government Debt Securities [Member] Certificates of Deposit [Member] Certificates of Deposit [Member] Corporate Debt Securities [Member] Corporate Debt Securities [Member] Money Market Funds [Member] Money Market Funds [Member] Commercial Paper [Member] Commercial Paper [Member] Corporate Debt [Member] GM Korea preferred shares [Member] Mandatorily redeemable preferred shares issued by GM Korea Equity [Member] Equity Securities [Member] Other Debt [Member] Other Debt Obligations [Member] Other restricted marketable securities [Member] Other restricted marketable securities [Member] Other restricted marketable securities [Member] Available For Sale and Trading Securities [Line Items] Gain (Loss) on Investments [Line Items] Preferred Stock, Value, Issued Preferred Stock, Value, Issued Cash, time deposits, and other cash equivalents Other Cash Equivalents, at Carrying Value Total Cash and Cash Equivalents Cash and Cash Equivalents, Fair Value Disclosure Total Marketable Securities - Current Marketable Securities, Current Total Marketable Securities, Noncurrent Marketable Securities, Noncurrent Total Marketable Securities Marketable Securities Available-for-sale Securities [Abstract] Available-for-sale Securities [Abstract] 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 Available-for-sale Securities, Fair Value Disclosure Available-for-sale Securities, Fair Value Disclosure Available-for-sale Securities, Fair Value Disclosure Available-for-sale Securities, Debt Securities Cash equivalent, fair value Cash equivalent, fair value This element represents the portion of the balance sheet assertion valued at fair value by the entity whether such amount is presented as a separate caption or as a parenthetical disclosure. Additionally, this element may be used in connection with the fair value disclosures required in the footnote disclosures to the financial statements. The element may be used in both the balance sheet and disclosure in the same submission. Cash equivalents, excluding items classified as marketable securities, include short-term, highly liquid investments that are both readily convertible to known amounts of cash, and so near their maturity that they present minimal risk of changes in value because of changes in interest rates. Generally, only investments with original maturities of three months or less qualify under that definition. Original maturity means original maturity to the entity holding the investment. For example, both a three-month US Treasury bill and a three-year Treasury note purchased three months from maturity qualify as cash equivalents. However, a Treasury note purchased three years ago does not become a cash equivalent when its remaining maturity is three months. Restricted Cash - Other Restricted Cash - Other Carrying amounts of cash and nontradable instruments which are restricted as to withdrawal or usage and excludes marketable securities classified as restricted cash and marketable securities. Total Restricted Cash and Marketable Securities Restricted Cash and Investments Trading Securities [Abstract] Trading Securities [Abstract] Trading Securities, Unrealized Holding Gain Trading Securities, Unrealized Holding Gain Trading Securities, Unrealized Holding Loss Trading Securities, Unrealized Holding Loss Trading Securities, Fair Value Trading Securities, Fair Value Disclosure Other disclosures [Abstract] Other disclosures [Abstract] Other disclosures in the footnote. Restricted Cash and Investments, Current Restricted Cash and Investments, Current Restricted Cash and Investments, Noncurrent Restricted Cash and Investments, Noncurrent Securities Compensating Balance Financial Instruments, Owned and Pledged as Collateral, at Fair Value Letters of Credit Outstanding, Amount Letters of Credit Outstanding, Amount Available-for-sale Securities Sale Proceeds Available-for-sale Securities, Gross Realized Gains (Losses), Sale Proceeds Available-for-sale Securities, Due in One Year, Amortized Cost Available-for-sale Securities, Debt Maturities, Next Twelve Months, Amortized Cost Basis Available-for-sale Securities, Due after One Through Five Years, Amortized Cost Available-for-sale Securities, Debt Maturities, Year Two Through Five, Amortized Cost Basis Total Contractual Maturities of Available-for-sale Securities, Amortized Cost Available-for-sale Securities, Debt Maturities, Amortized Cost Basis Available-for-sale Securities, Due in One Year, Fair Value Available-for-sale Securities, Debt Maturities, Next Twelve Months, Fair Value Available-for-sale Securities, Due after One Through Five Years, Fair Value Available-for-sale Securities, Debt Maturities, Year Two Through Five, Fair Value Total Contractual Maturities of Available-for-sale Securities, Fair Value Available-For-Sale Securites, Debt Maturities, Fair Value This item represents the fair value of debt securities by contractual maturity range from the balance sheet date and which are categorized neither as held-to-maturity nor trading securities. Schedule of Inventory, Current [Table Text Block] Schedule of Inventory, Current [Table Text Block] Basis Of Presentation Basis of Presentation [Abstract] Basis of Presentation [Text Block] Basis of Presentation and Significant Accounting Policies [Text Block] 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. Schedule of Equity Method Investments [Table] Schedule of Equity Method Investments [Table] Legal Entity [Axis] Legal Entity [Axis] Entity [Domain] Entity [Domain] SAIC Finance [Member] SAIC Finance [Member] SAIC Finance Co. Ltd. Balance Sheet Location [Axis] Balance Sheet Location [Axis] Balance Sheet Location [Domain] Balance Sheet Location [Domain] China JVs [Member] China JVs [Member] China JVs [Member] Other nonconsolidated affiliates [Member] Other nonconsolidated affiliates [Member] Other nonconsolidated affiliates [Member] SGM [Member] SGM [Member] SGM [Member] SGM Norsom [Member] SGM Norsom [Member] Shanghai GM Norsom Motor Co., Ltd. SGM DY [Member] SGM DY [Member] Shanghai GM Dong Yue Motors Co., Ltd. SGM DYPT [Member] SGM DYPT [Member] Shanghai GM Dong Yue Powertrain SGMW [Member] SGMW [Member] SGMW [Member] FAW-GM [Member] FAW [Member] FAW-GM Light Duty Commercial Vehicle Co., Ltd. PATAC [Member] PATAC [Member] Pan Asia Technical Automotive Center Co., Ltd. Shanghai Onstar [Member] Shanghai Onstar [Member] Shanghai Onstar Telematics Co., Ltd. Shanghai Chengxin [Member] Shanghai Chengxin [Member] Shanghai Chengxin used car JV [Member] GMAC SAIC [Member] GMAC SAIC [Member] GMAC-SAIC Automotive Finance, Ltd. SGMS [Member] SGMS [Member] SAIC General Motors Sales Co., Ltd. VM Motori [Member] VMM [Member] VM Motori Schedule of Equity Method Investments [Line Items] Schedule of Equity Method Investments [Line Items] Dividends from nonconsolidated affiliates Proceeds from Equity Method Investment, Dividends or Distributions Undistributed Earnings from Nonconsolidated Affiliates Retained Earnings, Undistributed Earnings from Equity Method Investees Direct ownership in investee Equity Method Investment, Ownership Percentage Equity Interest in Acquiree Before Acquisitions Business Combination, Step Acquisition, Equity Interest in Acquiree, Percentage Percentage of Voting Interests Acquired Business Acquisition, Percentage of Voting Interests Acquired Consideration transferred Business Combination, Consideration Transferred Equity Method Investment, Difference Between Carrying Amount and Underlying Equity Equity Method Investment, Difference Between Carrying Amount and Underlying Equity Allocation of Basis Difference PPE Allocation of Basis Difference PPE For purchase of additional interest of an equity mentod investee from the third parties, the protion of the excess cost over the net assets acquired from the equity metnod investee allocated to property, plant and equipment. Allocation of Basis Difference Intangibles Allocation of Basis Difference Intangibles For purchase of additional interest of an equity mentod investee from the third parties, the protion of the excess cost over the net assets acquired from the equity metnod investee allocated to Intangibles. Allocation of Basis Difference Goodwill Allocation of Basis Difference Goodwill For purchase of additional interest of an equity mentod investee from the third parties, the protion of the excess cost over the net assets acquired from the equity metnod investee allocated to goodwill. Equity Method Investment Ownership Percentage By Parent Equity Method Investment Ownership Percentage By Parent The percentage of parent's ownership of common stock or equity participation in the investee accounted for under the equity method of accounting by reporting entity. SGM Ownership Percent of Other JVs Affiiate Ownership Percent of Other JVs Affiliate ownership percent in other joint ventures SAIC Ownership Percentage Noncontrolling Interest, Ownership Percentage by Noncontrolling Owners Subsidiary or Equity Method Investee Percentage Ownership after Certain Transactions Subsidiary or Equity Method Investee Percentage Ownership after Certain Transactions Percentage of subsidiary's or equity method investee's stock owned by reporting entity immediately after certain stock transactions but before all equity transactions are completed. Equity Method Investment, Realized Gain (Loss) on Disposal Equity Method Investment, Realized Gain (Loss) on Disposal Proceeds from Sale of New Delphi Proceeds from Sale of Equity Method Investments Percentage of New Delphi's Interests Issued and Outstanding Percentage of Affiliate Membership Interest Issued and Outstanding Owned Percentage of affiliate's membership interest issued and outstanding that is owned by the reporting entity. Maximum Obligation on Loan to New Delphi Advances to affiliates Represents the maximum amount of reporting entity's obligation on future loans to be provided to affiliates at the end of the reporting period. Impairment of Equity Investment Equity Method Investment, Other than Temporary Impairment Other Noncash Expense Other Noncash Expense Put option, Fair Value Put option, Unrealized Losses Goodwill allocated Goodwill Equity interest in VMM Statement of Stockholders' Equity [Abstract] Common Stock [Member] Common Stock [Member] Retained Earnings [Member] Retained Earnings [Member] Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (loss) [Member] Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) [Member] Noncontrolling Interests [Member] Noncontrolling Interest [Member] Balance Stockholders' Equity, Including Portion Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest New Accounting Pronouncement or Change in Accounting Principle, Cumulative Effect of Change on Equity or Net Assets New Accounting Pronouncement or Change in Accounting Principle, Cumulative Effect of Change on Equity or Net Assets Net income Net Income (Loss), Including Portion Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest Other comprehensive income (loss) Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax Purchase of noncontrolling interest shares Noncontrolling Interest, Decrease from Redemptions or Purchase of Interests Exercise of common stock warrants Adjustments to Additional Paid in Capital, Warrant Issued Stock based compensation Adjustments to Additional Paid in Capital, Share-based Compensation, Requisite Service Period Recognition Pension Plan Stock Contribution Cash dividends paid and cummulative dividends on Preferred Stock Dividends, Preferred Stock, Cash Dividends declared or paid to noncontrolling interests Noncontrolling Interest, Decrease from Distributions to Noncontrolling Interest Holders Deconsolidation of noncontrolling interest shares Noncontrolling Interest, Decrease from Deconsolidation Other Stockholders' Equity, Other Balance Segment Reporting Segment Reporting Disclosure [Text Block] Condensed Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income [Abstract] Condensed Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income [Abstract] Other comprehensive income (loss), net of tax Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax [Abstract] Foreign currency translation adjustments 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 gains (losses) 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 (loss), net of tax Comprehensive income Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax, Including Portion Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest Comprehensive income (loss) attributable to noncontrolling interests Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax, Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest Comprehensive income attributable to stockholders Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax, Attributable to Parent Acquisition And Disposals Of Businesses [Abstract] Acquisition and Disposals of Businesses [Abstract] Acquisition And Disposals Of Businesses Business Combination Disclosure [Text Block] Accretable Yield [Table] Accretable Yield [Table] Accretable Yield [Table] Accretable Yield [Line Items] Accretable Yield [Line Items] Accretable Yield [Line Items] Accretable Yield, Beginning Balance Certain Loans Acquired in Transfer Not Accounted for as Debt Securities, Accretable Yield Accretion of Accretable Yield Certain Loans Acquired in Transfer Not Accounted for as Debt Securities, Accretable Yield, Accretion Transfer from Non-accretable Discount Certain Loans Acquired in Transfer Not Accounted for as Debt Securities, Accretable Yield, Reclassifications from Nonaccretable Difference Accretable Yield, Ending Balance Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheet Parenthetical [Abstract] Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheet Parenthetical [Abstract] Long-term Debt, Type [Axis] Long-term Debt, Type [Axis] Long-term Debt, Type [Domain] Long-term Debt, Type [Domain] Long-term Debt [Member] Long-term Debt [Member] Short-term Debt, Type [Axis] Short-term Debt, Type [Axis] Short-term Debt, Type [Domain] Short-term Debt, Type [Domain] Short-term Debt [Member] Short-term Debt [Member] Preferred Stock, Par or Stated Value Per Share Preferred Stock, Par or Stated Value Per Share Preferred Stock, Shares Authorized Preferred Stock, Shares Authorized Common Stock, Par or Stated Value Per Share 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 Allowance for Doubtful Accounts Receivable, Current Allowance for Doubtful Accounts Receivable, Current Nonrecourse Debt Non-Recourse Debt Non-Recourse 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. Gross Finance Receivables Transferred to Special Purpose Entities Gross Finance Receivables Transferred to Special Purpose Entities Gross Finance Receivables Transferred to Special Purpose Entities Gross Finance Receivables Transferred to Special Purpose Entities Noncurrent Gross Finance Receivables Transferred to Special Purpose Entities Noncurrent Gross Finance Receivables Transferred to Special Purpose Entities Noncurrent Operating Lease Assets Transferred to Special Purpose Entities Operating Lease Assets Transferred to Special Purpose Entities Operating lease assets transferred to special purpose entities, by major property class, net of accumulated depreciation, subject to or available for lease as of the balance sheet date. Preferred Stock, Shares Issued Preferred Stock, Shares Issued Preferred Stock, Shares Outstanding Preferred Stock, Shares Outstanding 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. Securitizations [Table] Securitizations [Table] Securitizations [Table] Related Party Transactions, by Related Party [Axis] Related Party [Axis] Related Party [Domain] Related Party [Domain] Canadaian Subsidiary [Member] Canada [Member] Represents the Canadian region for the GM Financial disclosure. Securtizations [Line Items] Securtizations [Line Items] Securitizations [Line Items] Finance Receivables Transferred to Securitization SPEs Finance Receivables Transferred To Special Purpose Entities The amount of finance receivables that have been transferred to securitization trusts. Receivables securitized Receivables Securitized The amount of finance receivables transferred to securitization Trusts during the period. Net proceeds from securitizations Proceeds from Securitizations of Consumer Loans Servicing fees 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 Leased Assets Serviced by Canadian Subsidiary Property Subject to or Available for Operating Lease, Gross Schedule of Goodwill [Table] Schedule of Goodwill [Table] GM Korea [Member] GM Korea Years 2011 and 2012 [Member] Years 2011/2012 [Member] Assumptions used in goodwill Step 2 analysis for years 2011/2012. Years 2015/2016 [Member] Years 2015/2016 [Member] Assumptions used in goodwill Step 2 analysis for years 2015/2016. Goodwill [Line Items] Goodwill, beginning balance Impairment charges Goodwill, Acquired During Period Goodwill, Acquired During Period Goodwill, Written off Related to Sale of Business Unit Goodwill, Written off Related to Sale of Business Unit Effect of foreign currency translation and other Goodwill, Translation Adjustments Goodwill, ending balance Accumulated impairment charges Goodwill, Impaired, Accumulated Impairment Loss Effect of adoption of ASU 2010-28 Goodwill Before Impairment Charge Goodwill Before Impairment Charge Goodwill Before Impairment Charge Fair Value Inputs, Discount Rate Fair Value Inputs, Discount Rate Long-Term Growth Rates Long-Term Growth Rates Long-Term Growth Rates Industry Vehicle Sales (in units) Industry Vehicle Sales Industry vehicle sales in units Market Share Market Share Market share held by reporting entity. Commitments and Contingencies Disclosure [Abstract] Commitments And Contingencies [Text Block] Commitments Contingencies and Guarantees [Text Block] Market Incentive Programs [Axis] Market Incentive Programs [Axis] Consists of residual support, risk sharing, and vehicle repurchase agreements with Ally Financial. Market Incentive Programs [Domain] Market Incentive Programs [Domain] Market Incentive Programs [Domain] Residual support [Member] Residual support [Member] Support program where the investee is reimbursed to the extent sales proceeds are less than the customer's contract residual value. The residual support amount owed is calculated at contract termination. Risk sharing [Member] Risk sharing [Member] Under this agreement, residual losses are shared equally with the investee to the extent remarketing proceeds are below the investee's standard residual value (limited to a floor). Vehicle repurchase obligations [Member] Vehicle repurchase obligations [Member] This agreement requires the repurchase of the investee's financed inventory invoiced to dealers with limited exclusions, in the event of a qualifying voluntary or involuntary termination of the dealer's sales and service agreement. Preferred Stock [Member] Preferred Stock [Member] Transactions with Ally Financial[Line Items] Summary of Financial Statement Effects and Maximum Obligations [Abstract] Summary of Financial Statement Effects and Maximum Obligations [Abstract] Summary of financial statement effects and maximum obligations with investee. Market Incentive Programs, Liabilities(recievables) Recorded Liabilities(recievables) for Market Incentive Programs, Carrying Amount Represents carrying amount of receivables or liabilities recorded for market incentive program agreements with investee. Market Incentive Programs, Maximum Obligation Liabilities(recievables) for Market Incentive Programs, Maximum Obligation Maximum obligation recorded for agreements entered into prior to December 31, 2008. Agreements entered into after December 31, 2008 have not included residual support or risk sharing programs. Vehicle Repurchase, Maximum obligations Vehicle Repurchase, Fair value of guarantee Favorable Adjustments to Residual and Risk Sharing Liabilities Favorable Adjustments to Residual and Risk Sharing Favorable adjustments to the liabilities associated with residual support and risk sharing programs Marketing Incentive Program Payments and Fee Income [Abstract] Marketing Incentive Program Payments and Fee Income [Abstract] Marketing incentive program and residual payments and exclusivity fee income. U.S. Marketing incentives and operating lease residual payments Marketing incentives and operating lease residual payments Marketing incentives and operating lease residual payments which include the following programs: interest rate support, residual support, risk-sharing, capitalized cost reduction and lease pull-ahead programs. Exclusivity fee income Exclusivity fee income Income resulting from exclusivity agreements with investee whereby retail financing is provided by investee under certain terms and conditions whic are set to expire after a defined period of time. Summary of Balance Sheet Effects [Abstract] Accounts and Notes Receivable, Net Accounts and Notes Receivable, Net Accounts Payable Accounts Payable Accrued Liabilities and other liabilities Accrued Liabilities Long-term Debt Long-term Debt, Excluding Current Maturities Other Liabilities, Noncurrent Other Liabilities, Noncurrent Summary of Income Statement Effects [Abstract] Total Net Sales And Revenue Revenue, Net Automotive cost of sales and other automotive expenses Other Cost and Expense, Operating Interest income and other non-operating income, net Investment in Ally Financial [Abstract] Investment in Ally Financial [Abstract] Fair value and carrying amount of Ally Financial common and preferred stock Total common equity ownership in investee Total common equity ownership in investee Total common equity ownership in investee Impairment charge on Ally Financial common stock Cost-method Investments, Other than Temporary Impairment Carrying amount of investment Ally Financial common stock Other Investments and Securities, at Cost Fair Value of investment in Ally Financial common stock Cost Method Investments, Fair Value Disclosure Proceeds from Sale of Ally Financial Preferred Stock Proceeds from Sale of Other Investments Depreciation Amortization And Impairment Charges [Table Text Block] Depreciation Amortization And Impairment Charges [Table Text Block] Tabular disclosure on depreciation amortization and impairment charges on property, plant, and equipment and equipment on operating leases. Fair Value, Equipment on Operating Leases [Table Text Block] Fair Value Measurements, Nonrecurring [Table Text Block] Fair Value Measurement Inputs, Equipment on Operating Leases [Table Text Block] Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Nonrecurring Basis, Valuation Techniques [Table Text Block] Class B [Member] Common Class B [Member] Class A [Member] Common Class A [Member] GM Korea [Member] Fair Value of Previously Held Investment Business Combination, Step Acquisition, Equity Interest in Acquiree, Fair Value Consideration Paid for SAIC Portion of the Promissory Note Business Acquisition, Cost of Acquired Entity, Other Noncash Consideration Settlement of Written Put Option Business Acquisition, Preacquisition Contingency, Amount of Settlement Total Consideration Fair Value of the Noncontrolling Interest Business Combination, Acquisition of Less than 100 Percent, Noncontrolling Interest, Fair Value Accounts Receivables Business Acquisition, Purchase Price Allocation, Current Assets, Receivables Inventory Business Acquisition, Purchase Price Allocation, Current Assets, Inventory Property, Plant and Equipment Business Acquisition, Purchase Price Allocation, Property, Plant and Equipment Goodwill Business Acquisition, Purchase Price Allocation, Goodwill Amount Other Noncurrent Assets Business Acquisition, Purchase Price Allocation, Other Noncurrent Assets Current Liabilities Business Acquisition, Purchase Price Allocation, Current Liabilities Noncurrent Liabilities Business Acquisition, Purchase Price Allocation, Noncurrent Liabilities Assets Acquired, Goodwill, and Liabilities Assumed, Net Business Combination, Recognized Identifiable Assets Acquired, Goodwill, and Liabilities Assumed, Net Number of Shares Acquired Sale of Stock, Number of Shares Issued in Transaction Face Value Per Share Sale of Stock, Price Per Share SAIC's Ownership Percentage After the Stock Transactions Business Acquisition, Effective Date of Acquisition Business Acquisition, Effective Date of Acquisition Post-Acquisition Investment Consolidation, Less than Wholly Owned Subsidiary, Parent Ownership Interest, Changes, Purchase of Interest by Parent Ownership Percentage After Stock Transactions Subsidiary or Equity Method Investee, Cumulative Percentage Ownership after All Transactions Purchase Price Business Acquisition, Cost of Acquired Entity, Cash Paid Cash and Cash Equivalents Acquired Business Acquisition, Purchase Price Allocation, Current Assets, Cash and Cash Equivalents Other assets acquired Business Acquisition, Purchase Price Allocation, Current Assets, Prepaid Expense and Other Assets Liabilities Assumed Business Acquisition, Purchase Price Allocation, Liabilities Assumed Gain on Purchase of Business Gain on Purchase of Business Total Purchase Price Business Acquisition, Cost of Acquired Entity, Purchase Price Variable Interest Entities [Text Block] Variable Interest Entities [Text Block] Disclosure of the significant judgments and assumptions made in determining whether a variable interest (as defined) held by the entity requires the variable interest entity (VIE) (as defined) to be consolidated and (or) disclose information about its involvement with the VIE, individually or in aggregate (as applicable); the nature of restrictions, if any, on the consolidated VIE's assets and on the settlement of its liabilities reported by an entity in its statement of financial position, including the carrying amounts of such assets and liabilities; the nature of, and changes in, the risks associated with involvement in the VIE; how involvement with the VIE affects the entity's financial position, financial performance, and cash flows; the lack of recourse if creditors (or beneficial interest holders) of the consolidated VIE have no recourse to the general credit of the primary beneficiary (if applicable); the terms of arrangements, giving consideration to both explicit arrangements and implicit variable interests, if any, that could require the entity to provide financial support to the VIE, including events or circumstances that could expose the entity to a loss; the methodology used by the entity for determining whether or not it is the primary beneficiary of the variable interest entity; the significant factors considered and judgments made in determining that the power to direct the activities of a VIE that most significantly impact the VIE's economic performance are shared (as defined); the carrying amounts and classification of assets and liabilities of the VIE included in the statement of financial position; the entity's maximum exposure to loss, if any, as a result of its involvement with the VIE, including how the maximum exposure is determined and significant sources of the entity's exposure to the VIE; a comparison of the carrying amounts of the assets and liabilities and the entity's maximum exposure to loss; information about any liquidity arrangements, guarantees, and (or) other commitments by third parties that may affect the fair value or risk of the entity's variable interest in the VIE; whether or not the entity has provided financial support or other support (explicitly or implicitly) to the VIE that it was not previously contractually required to provide or whether the entity intends to provide that support, including the type and amount of the support and the primary reasons for providing the support; and supplemental information the entity determines necessary to provide. Schedule of Restricted Stock Units Activity [Table Text Block] Schedule of Nonvested Restricted Stock Units Activity [Table Text Block] Schedule of Compensation Cost for Stock Incentive Plans [Table Text Block] Schedule of Compensation Cost for Share-based Payment Arrangements, Allocation of Share-based Compensation Costs by Plan [Table Text Block] Securitizations [Table Text Block] Securitizations [Table Text Block] Summary of securitization activity and cash flows from special purpose entties used for securitizations Intangible Assets, Net (Excluding Goodwill) [Abstract] Intangible Assets, Net [Text Block] Intangible Assets Disclosure [Text Block] Derivative Financial Instruments and Risk Management [Text Block] Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities Disclosure [Text Block] Schedule of Financing Receivable, Recorded Investment, Credit Quality Indicator [Table] Schedule of Financing Receivable, Recorded Investment, Credit Quality Indicator [Table] Credit Quality Indicator [Axis] Credit Quality Indicator [Axis] Financing Receivable, by Credit Quality Indicator [Domain] Financing Receivable, by Credit Quality Indicator [Domain] FICO Scores Less Than 540 [Member] FICO Scores Less Than 540 [Member] FICO Scores Less Than 540 [Member] FICO score 540 to 599 [Member] FICO score 540 to 599 [Member] FICO score 540 to 599 [Member] FICO score 600 to 659 [Member] FICO score 600 to 659 [Member] FICO score 600 to 659 [Member] FICO score greater than 660 [Member] FICO score greater than 660 [Member] FICO score greater than 660 [Member] Financing Receivable, Recorded Investment [Line Items] Financing Receivable, Recorded Investment [Line Items] Finance Receivables, Carrying Value Finance Receivables, Carrying Value Finance receivables carrying amount before the fair value adjustment. Basis of Presentation and Recent Accounting Standards [Abstract] Basis of Presentation and Recent Accounting Standards [Abstract] New Accounting Pronouncements Policy [Policy Text Block] New Accounting Pronouncements and Changes in Accounting Principles [Text Block] Use of Estimates, Policy [Policy Text Block] Use of Estimates, Policy [Policy Text Block] ASSETS Assets [Abstract] Cash and cash equivalents Marketable securities Restricted cash and marketable securities Accounts and Notes Receivable, Net Accounts, Notes, Loans and Financing Receivable, Net, Current GM Financial Finance Receivable, Net, Current Inventories 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 GM Financial Finance Receivable, Net, Noncurrent Property, net Property, Plant and Equipment, Net Goodwill Intangible assets, net GM Financial equipment on operating leases, net Property subject to or available for operating leases, net noncurrent The amount of property, by major property class, net of accumulated depreciation, subject to or available for lease as of the balance sheet date, noncurrent. Other assets and deferred income taxes Other Assets, Noncurrent Total non-current assets Assets, Noncurrent Total Assets LIABILITIES AND EQUITY Liabilities and Equity [Abstract] Accounts payable (principally trade) Accounts Payable, Current Accrued liabilities Accrued Liabilities, Current Total current liabilities Liabilities, Current 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 Total Liabilities Liabilities Commitments and contingencies (Note 17) Commitments and Contingencies Preferred stock Common stock Common Stock, Value, Issued Capital surplus (principally additional paid-in capital) Additional Paid in Capital Retained earnings Retained Earnings (Accumulated Deficit) Accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax Total stockholders' equity Stockholders' Equity Attributable to Parent Noncontrolling interests Stockholders' Equity Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest Total Equity Total Liabilities and Equity Liabilities and Equity Depreciation, Amortization and Impaiment Charges Depreciation, Amortization and Impairment Charges [Text Block] Disclosure on depreciation, amortization and impairment charges of long-lived assets, including disclosures on impairment charges and fair value of the equipment on operating leases. Restructuring And Other Initiatives Restructuring and Related Activities Disclosure [Text Block] Earnings Per Share, Basic [Member] Earnings Per Share, Diluted [Member] Net sales and revenue Revenues [Abstract] Automotive sales and revenue GM Financial 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 Total costs and expenses Costs and Expenses Operating income Operating Income (Loss) Automotive interest expense Income before income taxes and equity income Income (Loss) from Continuing Operations before Equity Method Investments, Income Taxes, Extraordinary Items, Noncontrolling Interest Net income Net (income) loss attributable to noncontrolling interests Net Income (Loss) Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest Net income attributable to common stockholders Basic Earnings per Share Earnings Per Share, Basic [Abstract] Weighted-average common shares outstanding Diluted Earnings per Share Earnings Per Share, Diluted [Abstract] Weighted-average common shares outstanding Schedule of Variable Interest Entities [Table] Schedule of Variable Interest Entities [Table] Classification of Debt [Axis] Classification of Debt [Axis] Classification of Debt Classification of Debt [Domain] Classification of Debt [Domain] Classification of Debt Derivative [Member] Derivative [Member] Variable Interest Entities Balance Sheet And Off-Balance Sheet Items [Axis] Variable Interest Entities Balance Sheet And Off-Balance Sheet Items [Axis] Variable Interest Entities Balance Sheet And Off-Balance Sheet Items [Axis] Variable Interest Entities Balance Sheet And Off-Balance Sheet Items [Domain] Variable Interest Entities Balance Sheet And Off-Balance Sheet Items [Domain] Variable Interest Entities Balance Sheet And Off-Balance Sheet Items [Domain] Accounts and Notes Receivable [Member] Accounts and Notes Receivable [Member] Accounts and Notes Receivable Equity In Net Assets Of Nonconsolidated Affiliates [Member] Equity In Net Assets Of Nonconsolidated Affiliates [Member] This item represents the carrying amount on the entity's balance sheet of its investment in common stock of an equity method investee. This is not an indicator of the fair value of the investment, rather it is the initial cost adjusted for the entity's share of earnings and losses of the investee, adjusted for any distributions (dividends) and other than temporary impairment (OTTI) losses recognized. Other Assets [Member] Other Assets [Member] Total Assets [Member] Total Assets [Member] Total assets including accounts and notes receivable, equity in net assets of nonconsolidated affiliates and other assets. Other Liabilities [Member] Other Liabilities [Member] Loan Commitments [Member] Loan Commitments [Member] Loan Commitments Other Liquidity Arrangements [Member] Other Liquidity Arrangements [Member] Other lquidity arangements including additional contingent future capital funding requirements. Total Off-Balance Sheet Arrangements [Member] Total Off-Balance Sheet Arrangements [Member] Total Off-Balance Sheet Arrangements Variable Interest Entities by Classification of Entity [Axis] Variable Interest Entities [Axis] Variable Interest Entity, Classification [Domain] Variable Interest Entity, Classification [Domain] Nonconsolidated VIE [Member] Variable Interest Entity, Not Primary Beneficiary, Aggregated Disclosure [Member] Consolidated VIE [Member] Variable Interest Entity, Primary Beneficiary, Aggregated Disclosure [Member] Variable Interest Entity [Line Items] Variable Interest Entity [Line Items] Consolidated VIE [Abstract] Consolidated VIE [Abstract] Total Assets Variable Interest Entity, Consolidated, Carrying Amount, Assets Total Liabilities Variable Interest Entity, Consolidated, Carrying Amount, Liabilities Non-consolidated VIE [Abstract] Non-consolidated VIE [Abstract] Carrying Amount, Assets Variable Interest Entity, Nonconsolidated, Carrying Amount, Assets Maximum Exposure To Loss Variable Interest Entity, Reporting Entity Involvement, Maximum Loss Exposure, Amount Carrying Amount, Liabilities Variable Interest Entity, Nonconsolidated, Carrying Amount, Liabilities