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Organization and Basis of Presentation Buydown Program (Narrative) (Details) (USD $) In Millions, unless otherwise specified | 12 Months Ended
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Dec. 31, 2012 | Dec. 31, 2011 | Dec. 31, 2010
Buydown Program [Line Items] |  |  |
lump-sum buydown program payment |  |  | $ 19.7
Buydown program expense | $ 2.3 | $ 15.0 | $ 15.6

X
- Definition Represents expense recognized associated with amortization of prepaid buydown program payments made to eligible associates in connection with, among other things, a decrease in base wages. + References No definition available. + Details
Name: | axl_BuydownProgramExpense
Namespace Prefix: | axl_
Data Type: | xbrli:monetaryItemType
Balance Type: | na
Period Type: | duration

X
- Details
Name: | axl_BuydownProgramLineItems
Namespace Prefix: | axl_
Data Type: | xbrli:stringItemType
Balance Type: | na
Period Type: | duration

X
- Definition Represents the third and final lump-sum payment made to eligible associates in exchange for, among other things, a base wage decrease as part of our 2008 negotiations with the United Automobile, Aerospace and Agricultural Implement Workers of America (UAW). + References No definition available. + Details
Name: | axl_LumpSumBuydownProgramPayment
Namespace Prefix: | axl_
Data Type: | xbrli:monetaryItemType
Balance Type: | na
Period Type: | duration