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Subsequent Events (Details) (Subsequent Event [Member], USD $) In Millions, unless otherwise specified	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2012
Subsequent Event [Member]
Subsequent Events (Textual) [Abstract]
Shares repurchase of Class A common stock	$ 100.0
Total remaining repurchase authorization	$ 49.6

X

- Definition

Stock repurchase program additional authorized amount.

+ References

No definition available.

+ Details

Name:	sah_StockRepurchaseProgramAdditionalAuthorizedAmount
Namespace Prefix:	sah_
Data Type:	xbrli:monetaryItemType
Balance Type:	credit
Period Type:	duration

X

- Details

Name:	sah_SubsequentEventsTextualAbstract
Namespace Prefix:	sah_
Data Type:	xbrli:stringItemType
Balance Type:	na
Period Type:	duration

X

- Definition

The remaining repurchase amount authorized by an entity's Board of Directors under a stock repurchase plan.

+ References

No definition available.

+ Details

Name:	us-gaap_StockRepurchaseProgramRemainingAuthorizedRepurchaseAmount
Namespace Prefix:	us-gaap_
Data Type:	xbrli:monetaryItemType
Balance Type:	credit
Period Type:	duration