XML 24 R79.htm IDEA: XBRL DOCUMENT
v2.4.0.6

Commitments and Contingencies (Details) (USD $) In Thousands, unless otherwise specified | 12 Months Ended
--- | ---
Dec. 31, 2012
Summary of lease exit accruals |
Beginning, Balance | $ 39,118
Lease exit expense | 4,286
Payments | (8,764)
Lease buyout | (1,657)
Ending, Balance | $ 32,983

X
- Definition Lease buyout. + References No definition available. + Details
Name: | sah_LeaseBuyout
Namespace Prefix: | sah_
Data Type: | xbrli:monetaryItemType
Balance Type: | debit
Period Type: | duration

X
- Definition Lease exit accruals. + References No definition available. + Details
Name: | sah_LeaseExitAccruals
Namespace Prefix: | sah_
Data Type: | xbrli:monetaryItemType
Balance Type: | debit
Period Type: | instant

X
- Definition Lease exit expense. + References No definition available. + Details
Name: | sah_LeaseExitExpense
Namespace Prefix: | sah_
Data Type: | xbrli:monetaryItemType
Balance Type: | debit
Period Type: | duration

X
- Definition Lease exit payment. + References No definition available. + Details
Name: | sah_LeaseExitPayment
Namespace Prefix: | sah_
Data Type: | xbrli:monetaryItemType
Balance Type: | debit
Period Type: | duration

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