XML 96 R60.htm IDEA: XBRL DOCUMENT
v2.4.1.9

Long-Term Debt - Additional Information (Detail) (USD $) | 12 Months Ended |  |
--- | --- | --- | ---
Dec. 31, 2014 | Dec. 31, 2013 | Dec. 31, 2012 | Jun. 30, 2014 Agreement | Jul. 02, 2012
Debt Instrument [Line Items] |  |  |  |  |
Total debt | $ 773,412,000 us-gaap_DebtInstrumentCarryingAmount | $ 748,373,000 us-gaap_DebtInstrumentCarryingAmount |  |  |
Stated interest rate on debt agreement | 5.00%us-gaap_DebtInstrumentInterestRateStatedPercentage |  |  |  |
Notional Forward |  |  |  | 2 sah_NumberOfNewForwardStartingCashFlowSwapAgreements |
Description of interest rate cash flow swap agreements | swap agreements become effective in July 2016 and July 2015, respectively, and terminate in July 2017. |  |  |  |
Incremental interest expense | 10,700,000 sah_InterestExpenseNetCashFlowSwaps | 11,800,000 sah_InterestExpenseNetCashFlowSwaps | 13,400,000 sah_InterestExpenseNetCashFlowSwaps |  |
Net expense expected to be reclassified | 5,100,000 us-gaap_InterestRateCashFlowHedgeGainLossToBeReclassifiedDuringNext12MonthsNet |  |  |  |
Cash Flow Swap 13 [Member] |  |  |  |  |
Debt Instrument [Line Items] |  |  |  |  |
Interest rate Cash flow swap agreements | 25,000,000 us-gaap_DerivativeLiabilityNotionalAmount / us-gaap_DerivativeInstrumentRiskAxis = sah_CashFlowSwapThirteenMember |  |  | 25,000,000 us-gaap_DerivativeLiabilityNotionalAmount / us-gaap_DerivativeInstrumentRiskAxis = sah_CashFlowSwapThirteenMember |
Swap agreement effective date | 2016-07 |  |  |  |
Swap agreement maturity date | 2017-07 |  |  |  |
Cash Flow Swap 14 [Member] |  |  |  |  |
Debt Instrument [Line Items] |  |  |  |  |
Interest rate Cash flow swap agreements | 100,000,000 us-gaap_DerivativeLiabilityNotionalAmount / us-gaap_DerivativeInstrumentRiskAxis = sah_CashFlowSwapFourteenMember |  |  | 100,000,000 us-gaap_DerivativeLiabilityNotionalAmount / us-gaap_DerivativeInstrumentRiskAxis = sah_CashFlowSwapFourteenMember |
Swap agreement effective date | 2015-07 |  |  |  |
Swap agreement maturity date | 2017-07 |  |  |  |
Common Class A [Member] |  |  |  |  |
Debt Instrument [Line Items] |  |  |  |  |
Common stock, shares issued | 62,046,966 us-gaap_CommonStockSharesIssued / us-gaap_StatementClassOfStockAxis = us-gaap_CommonClassAMember | 61,584,248 us-gaap_CommonStockSharesIssued / us-gaap_StatementClassOfStockAxis = us-gaap_CommonClassAMember |  |  |
2014 Revolving Credit Facility [Member] |  |  |  |  |
Debt Instrument [Line Items] |  |  |  |  |
Increased borrowing capacity | 225,000,000 us-gaap_LineOfCreditFacilityCurrentBorrowingCapacity / us-gaap_LongtermDebtTypeAxis = sah_TwoThousandFourteenRevolvingCreditFacilityMember |  |  |  |
Increased borrowing capacity | 275,000,000 us-gaap_LineOfCreditFacilityMaximumBorrowingCapacity / us-gaap_LongtermDebtTypeAxis = sah_TwoThousandFourteenRevolvingCreditFacilityMember |  |  |  |
Borrowing base | 194,800,000 sah_RevolvingBorrowingBase / us-gaap_LongtermDebtTypeAxis = sah_TwoThousandFourteenRevolvingCreditFacilityMember |  |  |  |
Letters of credit outstanding amount | 29,200,000 us-gaap_LettersOfCreditOutstandingAmount / us-gaap_LongtermDebtTypeAxis = sah_TwoThousandFourteenRevolvingCreditFacilityMember |  |  |  |
Total debt | 0 us-gaap_DebtInstrumentCarryingAmount / us-gaap_LongtermDebtTypeAxis = sah_TwoThousandFourteenRevolvingCreditFacilityMember |  |  |  |
Borrowing availability amount | 165,600,000 us-gaap_LineOfCreditFacilityRemainingBorrowingCapacity / us-gaap_LongtermDebtTypeAxis = sah_TwoThousandFourteenRevolvingCreditFacilityMember |  |  |  |
Allocation of credit facility increase, percentage | 20.00%sah_MaximumAllocableBorrowingCapacityIncreasePercentage / us-gaap_LongtermDebtTypeAxis = sah_TwoThousandFourteenRevolvingCreditFacilityMember |  |  |  |
7.0% Senior Subordinated Notes Due 2022 [Member] |  |  |  |  |
Debt Instrument [Line Items] |  |  |  |  |
Principal amount | 200,000,000 us-gaap_DebtInstrumentFaceAmount / us-gaap_LongtermDebtTypeAxis = sah_SevenPercentSeniorSubordinateNoteDueTwoThousandTwentyTwoMember |  |  |  |
Stated interest rate on debt agreement | 7.00%us-gaap_DebtInstrumentInterestRateStatedPercentage / us-gaap_LongtermDebtTypeAxis = sah_SevenPercentSeniorSubordinateNoteDueTwoThousandTwentyTwoMember | 7.00%us-gaap_DebtInstrumentInterestRateStatedPercentage / us-gaap_LongtermDebtTypeAxis = sah_SevenPercentSeniorSubordinateNoteDueTwoThousandTwentyTwoMember |  |  |
Notes maturity date | Jul. 15, 2022 |  |  |  |
Interest payable description | semi-annually in arrears on January 15 and July 15 of each year |  |  |  |
Notes redeemed percentage of aggregate principal amount | 35.00%sah_DebtInstrumentPercentageOfMaximumRedemptionWithCashFromCommonStockOffering / us-gaap_LongtermDebtTypeAxis = sah_SevenPercentSeniorSubordinateNoteDueTwoThousandTwentyTwoMember |  |  |  |
Notes redemption price percentage of the par value | 107.00%sah_NotesRedemptionPricePercentageOfParValue / us-gaap_LongtermDebtTypeAxis = sah_SevenPercentSeniorSubordinateNoteDueTwoThousandTwentyTwoMember |  |  |  |
Notes redemption price percentage of the par value due to change of control | 101.00%sah_NotesRedemptionPricePercentageOfParValueDueToChangeOfControl / us-gaap_LongtermDebtTypeAxis = sah_SevenPercentSeniorSubordinateNoteDueTwoThousandTwentyTwoMember |  |  |  |
Debt instrument maximum allowed dividends per share | $ 0.10 sah_DebtInstrumentMaximumAllowedDividendsPerShare / us-gaap_LongtermDebtTypeAxis = sah_SevenPercentSeniorSubordinateNoteDueTwoThousandTwentyTwoMember |  |  |  |
Restrictive covenants under 2011 credit facilities and 7 % notes with 5% notes | Specifically, the indenture governing Sonic’s 7.0% Notes limits Sonic’s ability to pay quarterly cash dividends on Sonic’s Class A and B common stock in excess of $0.10 per share. Sonic may only pay quarterly cash dividends on Sonic’s Class A and B common stock if Sonic complies with the terms of the indenture governing the 7.0% |  |  |  |
Outstanding principal amount of the 7.0% notes | 25.00%sah_DebtInstrumentPercentageOfOutstandingPrincipalAmountRedeemableUponEventOfDefault / us-gaap_LongtermDebtTypeAxis = sah_SevenPercentSeniorSubordinateNoteDueTwoThousandTwentyTwoMember |  |  |  |
7.0% Senior Subordinated Notes Due 2022 [Member] | Minimum [Member] |  |  |  |  |
Debt Instrument [Line Items] |  |  |  |  |
Indebtedness with outstanding balance under other agreements | 35,000,000 sah_DebtInstrumentOtherOutstandingIndebtednessInExcess / us-gaap_LongtermDebtTypeAxis = sah_SevenPercentSeniorSubordinateNoteDueTwoThousandTwentyTwoMember / us-gaap_RangeAxis = us-gaap_MinimumMember |  |  |  |
Subordinated Notes [Member] |  |  |  |  |
Debt Instrument [Line Items] |  |  |  |  |
Notes issued at a price of principal amount | 99.11%sah_NotesIssuedAtPriceOfPrincipalAmount / us-gaap_LongtermDebtTypeAxis = us-gaap_SeniorSubordinatedNotesMember |  |  |  |
Notes issued yield maturity, percentage |  |  |  |  | 7.125%us-gaap_DebtInstrumentInterestRateEffectivePercentage / us-gaap_LongtermDebtTypeAxis = us-gaap_SeniorSubordinatedNotesMember
5.0% Senior Subordinated Notes due 2023 [Member] |  |  |  |  |
Debt Instrument [Line Items] |  |  |  |  |
Principal amount | 300,000,000 us-gaap_DebtInstrumentFaceAmount / us-gaap_LongtermDebtTypeAxis = sah_FivePercentSeniorSubordinateNoteDueTwoThousandTwentyThreeMember |  |  |  |
Stated interest rate on debt agreement | 5.00%us-gaap_DebtInstrumentInterestRateStatedPercentage / us-gaap_LongtermDebtTypeAxis = sah_FivePercentSeniorSubordinateNoteDueTwoThousandTwentyThreeMember | 5.00%us-gaap_DebtInstrumentInterestRateStatedPercentage / us-gaap_LongtermDebtTypeAxis = sah_FivePercentSeniorSubordinateNoteDueTwoThousandTwentyThreeMember |  |  |
Notes issued at a price of principal amount | 100.00%sah_NotesIssuedAtPriceOfPrincipalAmount / us-gaap_LongtermDebtTypeAxis = sah_FivePercentSeniorSubordinateNoteDueTwoThousandTwentyThreeMember |  |  |  |
Notes maturity date | May 15, 2023 |  |  |  |
Interest payable description | semi-annually in arrears on May 15 and November 15 of each year |  |  |  |
Notes redeemed percentage of aggregate principal amount | 35.00%sah_DebtInstrumentPercentageOfMaximumRedemptionWithCashFromCommonStockOffering / us-gaap_LongtermDebtTypeAxis = sah_FivePercentSeniorSubordinateNoteDueTwoThousandTwentyThreeMember |  |  |  |
Notes redemption price percentage of the par value | 105.00%sah_NotesRedemptionPricePercentageOfParValue / us-gaap_LongtermDebtTypeAxis = sah_FivePercentSeniorSubordinateNoteDueTwoThousandTwentyThreeMember |  |  |  |
Notes redemption price percentage of the par value due to change of control | 101.00%sah_NotesRedemptionPricePercentageOfParValueDueToChangeOfControl / us-gaap_LongtermDebtTypeAxis = sah_FivePercentSeniorSubordinateNoteDueTwoThousandTwentyThreeMember |  |  |  |
Debt instrument maximum allowed dividends per share | $ 0.10 sah_DebtInstrumentMaximumAllowedDividendsPerShare / us-gaap_LongtermDebtTypeAxis = sah_FivePercentSeniorSubordinateNoteDueTwoThousandTwentyThreeMember |  |  |  |
Restrictive covenants under 2011 credit facilities and 7 % notes with 5% notes | Specifically, the indenture governing Sonic’s 5.0% Notes limits Sonic’s ability to pay quarterly cash dividends on Sonic’s Class A and B common stock in excess of $0.10 per share. Sonic may only pay quarterly cash dividends on Sonic’s Class A and B common stock if Sonic complies with the terms of the indenture governing the 5.0% Notes |  |  |  |
Outstanding principal amount of the 7.0% notes | 25.00%sah_DebtInstrumentPercentageOfOutstandingPrincipalAmountRedeemableUponEventOfDefault / us-gaap_LongtermDebtTypeAxis = sah_FivePercentSeniorSubordinateNoteDueTwoThousandTwentyThreeMember |  |  |  |
Notes redemption price percentage of the principal amount | 100.00%us-gaap_DebtInstrumentRedemptionPricePercentageOfPrincipalAmountRedeemed / us-gaap_LongtermDebtTypeAxis = sah_FivePercentSeniorSubordinateNoteDueTwoThousandTwentyThreeMember |  |  |  |
5.0% Senior Subordinated Notes due 2023 [Member] | Minimum [Member] |  |  |  |  |
Debt Instrument [Line Items] |  |  |  |  |
Indebtedness with outstanding balance under other agreements | 50,000,000 sah_DebtInstrumentOtherOutstandingIndebtednessInExcess / us-gaap_LongtermDebtTypeAxis = sah_FivePercentSeniorSubordinateNoteDueTwoThousandTwentyThreeMember / us-gaap_RangeAxis = us-gaap_MinimumMember |  |  |  |
5.0% Senior Subordinated Notes due 2023 [Member] | Common Class A [Member] |  |  |  |  |
Debt Instrument [Line Items] |  |  |  |  |
Common stock, shares issued |  |  |  |  | 4,100,000 us-gaap_CommonStockSharesIssued / us-gaap_LongtermDebtTypeAxis = sah_FivePercentSeniorSubordinateNoteDueTwoThousandTwentyThreeMember / us-gaap_StatementClassOfStockAxis = us-gaap_CommonClassAMember
Assumed Notes [Member] |  |  |  |  |
Debt Instrument [Line Items] |  |  |  |  |
Total debt | 4,400,000 us-gaap_DebtInstrumentCarryingAmount / us-gaap_LongtermDebtTypeAxis = sah_AssumedNotesMember |  |  |  |
Stated interest rate on debt agreement | 5.35%us-gaap_DebtInstrumentInterestRateStatedPercentage / us-gaap_LongtermDebtTypeAxis = sah_AssumedNotesMember |  |  |  |
Premium recorded on notes payable | 7,300,000 sah_DebtInstrumentsFairValueDisclosurePremiumRecorded / us-gaap_LongtermDebtTypeAxis = sah_AssumedNotesMember |  |  |  |
Premium associated with notes | 100,000 us-gaap_DebtInstrumentUnamortizedPremium / us-gaap_LongtermDebtTypeAxis = sah_AssumedNotesMember |  |  |  |
Notes payable due date | October 2015 and August 2016 |  |  |  |
Mortgage Notes [Member] |  |  |  |  |
Debt Instrument [Line Items] |  |  |  |  |
Total debt | 265,900,000 us-gaap_DebtInstrumentCarryingAmount / us-gaap_LongtermDebtTypeAxis = sah_MortgageNotesMember |  |  |  |
Notes payable due date | between 2015 and 2033 |  |  |  |
Debt weighted average interest rate on note | 3.74%us-gaap_DebtWeightedAverageInterestRate / us-gaap_LongtermDebtTypeAxis = sah_MortgageNotesMember |  |  |  |
Mortgage financing aggregate | 44,400,000 us-gaap_SecuredDebt / us-gaap_LongtermDebtTypeAxis = sah_MortgageNotesMember |  |  |  |
Percentage of dealership properties related to mortgage financing | 30.00%sah_PercentageOfMortgageDealershipProperties / us-gaap_LongtermDebtTypeAxis = sah_MortgageNotesMember |  |  |  |
Actual Ratio [Member] |  |  |  |  |
Debt Instrument [Line Items] |  |  |  |  |
Minimum EBTDAR to rent ratio | 3.56 sah_MinimumEbtdarToRentRatio / us-gaap_LongtermDebtTypeAxis = sah_ActualRatioMember |  |  |  |
Required Ratio [Member] |  |  |  |  |
Debt Instrument [Line Items] |  |  |  |  |
Minimum EBTDAR to rent ratio | 1.50 sah_MinimumEbtdarToRentRatio / us-gaap_LongtermDebtTypeAxis = sah_RequiredRatioMember |  |  |  |
Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities [Member] |  |  |  |  |
Debt Instrument [Line Items] |  |  |  |  |
Fair value of swap positions | 11,100,000 us-gaap_DerivativeFairValueOfDerivativeLiability / us-gaap_LongtermDebtTypeAxis = sah_DerivativeInstrumentsAndHedgingActivitiesMember | 16,300,000 us-gaap_DerivativeFairValueOfDerivativeLiability / us-gaap_LongtermDebtTypeAxis = sah_DerivativeInstrumentsAndHedgingActivitiesMember |  |  |
Benefits and charges related to cash flow swaps not designated as hedges | 500,000 sah_CashFlowSwapsNotDesignatedAsHedgeBenefitsAndCharges / us-gaap_LongtermDebtTypeAxis = sah_DerivativeInstrumentsAndHedgingActivitiesMember | 900,000 sah_CashFlowSwapsNotDesignatedAsHedgeBenefitsAndCharges / us-gaap_LongtermDebtTypeAxis = sah_DerivativeInstrumentsAndHedgingActivitiesMember | 700,000 sah_CashFlowSwapsNotDesignatedAsHedgeBenefitsAndCharges / us-gaap_LongtermDebtTypeAxis = sah_DerivativeInstrumentsAndHedgingActivitiesMember |  |
Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities [Member] | Other Accrued Liabilities [Member] |  |  |  |  |
Debt Instrument [Line Items] |  |  |  |  |
Fair value of swap positions | 8,200,000 us-gaap_DerivativeFairValueOfDerivativeLiability / us-gaap_BalanceSheetLocationAxis = sah_OtherAccruedLiabilitiesMember / us-gaap_LongtermDebtTypeAxis = sah_DerivativeInstrumentsAndHedgingActivitiesMember | 11,600,000 us-gaap_DerivativeFairValueOfDerivativeLiability / us-gaap_BalanceSheetLocationAxis = sah_OtherAccruedLiabilitiesMember / us-gaap_LongtermDebtTypeAxis = sah_DerivativeInstrumentsAndHedgingActivitiesMember |  |  |
Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities [Member] | Other Long-Term Liabilities [Member] |  |  |  |  |
Debt Instrument [Line Items] |  |  |  |  |
Fair value of swap positions | 3,500,000 us-gaap_DerivativeFairValueOfDerivativeLiability / us-gaap_BalanceSheetLocationAxis = sah_OtherLongTermLiabilitiesMember / us-gaap_LongtermDebtTypeAxis = sah_DerivativeInstrumentsAndHedgingActivitiesMember | 8,400,000 us-gaap_DerivativeFairValueOfDerivativeLiability / us-gaap_BalanceSheetLocationAxis = sah_OtherLongTermLiabilitiesMember / us-gaap_LongtermDebtTypeAxis = sah_DerivativeInstrumentsAndHedgingActivitiesMember |  |  |
Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities [Member] | Other Assets [Member] |  |  |  |  |
Debt Instrument [Line Items] |  |  |  |  |
Fair value of swap positions | 600,000 us-gaap_DerivativeFairValueOfDerivativeAsset / us-gaap_BalanceSheetLocationAxis = us-gaap_OtherAssetsMember / us-gaap_LongtermDebtTypeAxis = sah_DerivativeInstrumentsAndHedgingActivitiesMember | 3,700,000 us-gaap_DerivativeFairValueOfDerivativeAsset / us-gaap_BalanceSheetLocationAxis = us-gaap_OtherAssetsMember / us-gaap_LongtermDebtTypeAxis = sah_DerivativeInstrumentsAndHedgingActivitiesMember |  |  |
2011 Credit Facility [Member] |  |  |  |  |
Debt Instrument [Line Items] |  |  |  |  |
Maturity date of revolving credit facility and floor plan facility | Aug. 15, 2016 |  |  |  |
2011 Revolving Credit Facility [Member] |  |  |  |  |
Debt Instrument [Line Items] |  |  |  |  |
Increased borrowing capacity | 175,000,000 us-gaap_LineOfCreditFacilityCurrentBorrowingCapacity / us-gaap_CreditFacilityAxis = sah_TwoThousandElevenRevolvingCreditFacilityMember |  |  |  |
2011 New Used Vehicle Floor Plan Facility [Member] |  |  |  |  |
Debt Instrument [Line Items] |  |  |  |  |
Increased borrowing capacity | 605,000,000 us-gaap_LineOfCreditFacilityMaximumBorrowingCapacity / us-gaap_CreditFacilityAxis = sah_TwoThousandElevenNewUsedVehicleFloorPlanFacilityMember |  |  |  |
2014 Credit Facility [Member] |  |  |  |  |
Debt Instrument [Line Items] |  |  |  |  |
Maturity date of revolving credit facility and floor plan facility | Aug. 15, 2019 |  |  |  |
2014 Credit Facility [Member] | Minimum [Member] |  |  |  |  |
Debt Instrument [Line Items] |  |  |  |  |
EBTDAR to rent ratio | 1.00 sah_EbtdarToRentRatio / us-gaap_CreditFacilityAxis = sah_TwoThousandFourteenCreditFacilityMember / us-gaap_RangeAxis = us-gaap_MinimumMember |  |  |  |
2014 Credit Facility [Member] | Actual Ratio [Member] |  |  |  |  |
Debt Instrument [Line Items] |  |  |  |  |
Minimum EBTDAR to rent ratio | 3.56 sah_MinimumEbtdarToRentRatio / us-gaap_CreditFacilityAxis = sah_TwoThousandFourteenCreditFacilityMember / us-gaap_LongtermDebtTypeAxis = sah_ActualRatioMember |  |  |  |
2014 Credit Facility [Member] | Required Ratio [Member] |  |  |  |  |
Debt Instrument [Line Items] |  |  |  |  |
Minimum EBTDAR to rent ratio | 1.50 sah_MinimumEbtdarToRentRatio / us-gaap_CreditFacilityAxis = sah_TwoThousandFourteenCreditFacilityMember / us-gaap_LongtermDebtTypeAxis = sah_RequiredRatioMember |  |  |  |
2014 Credit Facility [Member] | Required Ratio [Member] | Minimum [Member] |  |  |  |  |
Debt Instrument [Line Items] |  |  |  |  |
EBTDAR to rent ratio | 1.00 sah_EbtdarToRentRatio / us-gaap_CreditFacilityAxis = sah_TwoThousandFourteenCreditFacilityMember / us-gaap_LongtermDebtTypeAxis = sah_RequiredRatioMember / us-gaap_RangeAxis = us-gaap_MinimumMember |  |  |  |
2014 Used Vehicle Floor Plan Facility [Member] |  |  |  |  |
Debt Instrument [Line Items] |  |  |  |  |
Increased borrowing capacity | 800,000,000 us-gaap_LineOfCreditFacilityMaximumBorrowingCapacity / us-gaap_CreditFacilityAxis = sah_TwoThousandFourteenUsedVehicleFloorPlanFacilityMember |  |  |  |
2014 New Vehicle Floor Plan Facility [Member] | 2014 Revolving Credit Facility [Member] |  |  |  |  |
Debt Instrument [Line Items] |  |  |  |  |
Increase in credit facility borrowing capacity | $ 1,000,000,000 sah_LineOfCreditFacilityCombinedIncreaseInBorrowingCapacity / us-gaap_CreditFacilityAxis = sah_TwoThousandFourteenNewVehicleFloorPlanFacilityMember / us-gaap_LongtermDebtTypeAxis = sah_TwoThousandFourteenRevolvingCreditFacilityMember |  |  |  |

X
- Definition Certain benefits and charges included in interest expense, other, net, in the Consolidated Statements of Income for the cash flow swaps not designated as hedges and amortization of amounts in accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) related to terminated cash flow swaps. + References No definition available. + Details
Name: | sah_CashFlowSwapsNotDesignatedAsHedgeBenefitsAndCharges
Namespace Prefix: | sah_
Data Type: | xbrli:monetaryItemType
Balance Type: | debit
Period Type: | duration

X
- Definition Maximum amount per share the entity may pay as quarterly cash dividends on common stock as permitted by the indenture governing the entity's debt obligation. + References No definition available. + Details
Name: | sah_DebtInstrumentMaximumAllowedDividendsPerShare
Namespace Prefix: | sah_
Data Type: | num:perShareItemType
Balance Type: | na
Period Type: | duration

X
- Definition Minimum amount of outstanding indebtedness the entity or its subsidiaries must have under other agreements in order to allow an acceleration of the entity's debt obligation if certain events of default occur. + References No definition available. + Details
Name: | sah_DebtInstrumentOtherOutstandingIndebtednessInExcess
Namespace Prefix: | sah_
Data Type: | xbrli:monetaryItemType
Balance Type: | credit
Period Type: | duration

X
- Definition Aggregate principal amount of the total notes, as a percentage, that the entity may redeem on or before a set date. + References No definition available. + Details
Name: | sah_DebtInstrumentPercentageOfMaximumRedemptionWithCashFromCommonStockOffering
Namespace Prefix: | sah_
Data Type: | num:percentItemType
Balance Type: | na
Period Type: | duration

X
- Definition Percentage of the outstanding principal amount of the entity's debt obligation that holders may accelerate if certain events of default occur. + References No definition available. + Details
Name: | sah_DebtInstrumentPercentageOfOutstandingPrincipalAmountRedeemableUponEventOfDefault
Namespace Prefix: | sah_
Data Type: | num:percentItemType
Balance Type: | na
Period Type: | duration

X
- Definition Premium recorded for notes payable assumed by the entity in connection with a prior year acquisition. + References No definition available. + Details
Name: | sah_DebtInstrumentsFairValueDisclosurePremiumRecorded
Namespace Prefix: | sah_
Data Type: | xbrli:monetaryItemType
Balance Type: | credit
Period Type: | instant

X
- Definition Derivative swap agreement effective date. + References No definition available. + Details
Name: | sah_DerivativeSwapAgreementEffectiveDate
Namespace Prefix: | sah_
Data Type: | xbrli:gYearMonthItemType
Balance Type: | na
Period Type: | duration

X
- Definition Derivative swap agreement maturity date. + References No definition available. + Details
Name: | sah_DerivativeSwapAgreementMaturityDate
Namespace Prefix: | sah_
Data Type: | xbrli:gYearMonthItemType
Balance Type: | na
Period Type: | duration

X
- Definition Duration of interest rate cash flow swap agreements. + References No definition available. + Details
Name: | sah_DurationOfInterestRateCashFlowSwapAgreements
Namespace Prefix: | sah_
Data Type: | us-types:durationStringItemType
Balance Type: | na
Period Type: | duration

X
- Definition EBTDAR to rent ratio. + References No definition available. + Details
Name: | sah_EbtdarToRentRatio
Namespace Prefix: | sah_
Data Type: | xbrli:pureItemType
Balance Type: | na
Period Type: | instant

X
- Definition The incremental interest expense (the difference between interest paid and interest received) related to the cash flow swaps that qualify as cash flow hedges. + References No definition available. + Details
Name: | sah_InterestExpenseNetCashFlowSwaps
Namespace Prefix: | sah_
Data Type: | xbrli:monetaryItemType
Balance Type: | debit
Period Type: | duration

X
- Definition The maximum amount of an increase in the Floor Plan Facilities that the entity may, under certain conditions, request, which shall be allocated between the New Vehicle Floor Plan Facility and the Used Vehicle Floor Plan Facility. + References No definition available. + Details
Name: | sah_LineOfCreditFacilityCombinedIncreaseInBorrowingCapacity
Namespace Prefix: | sah_
Data Type: | xbrli:monetaryItemType
Balance Type: | credit
Period Type: | instant

X
- Definition The maximum amount, as a percentage of the total increase requested by the entity in the Floor Plan Facilities, that may be allocated to the commitments under the Used Vehicle Floor Plan Facility. + References No definition available. + Details
Name: | sah_MaximumAllocableBorrowingCapacityIncreasePercentage
Namespace Prefix: | sah_
Data Type: | num:percentItemType
Balance Type: | na
Period Type: | duration

X
- Definition Minimum EBTDAR to rent ratio. + References No definition available. + Details
Name: | sah_MinimumEbtdarToRentRatio
Namespace Prefix: | sah_
Data Type: | xbrli:pureItemType
Balance Type: | na
Period Type: | instant

X
- Definition As a total of the principal notes amount, the percentage for which the notes were issued. + References No definition available. + Details
Name: | sah_NotesIssuedAtPriceOfPrincipalAmount
Namespace Prefix: | sah_
Data Type: | num:percentItemType
Balance Type: | na
Period Type: | duration

X
- Definition Percentage of the par value of notes that the entity may redeem on or before a set date. + References No definition available. + Details
Name: | sah_NotesRedemptionPricePercentageOfParValue
Namespace Prefix: | sah_
Data Type: | num:percentItemType
Balance Type: | na
Period Type: | duration

X
- Definition The aggregate amount to be paid by the entity upon a "change of control" as defined in the indenture, expressed as a percentage of the par value of the debt obligation. + References No definition available. + Details
Name: | sah_NotesRedemptionPricePercentageOfParValueDueToChangeOfControl
Namespace Prefix: | sah_
Data Type: | num:percentItemType
Balance Type: | na
Period Type: | duration

X
- Definition Number of new forward starting cash flow swap agreements. + References No definition available. + Details
Name: | sah_NumberOfNewForwardStartingCashFlowSwapAgreements
Namespace Prefix: | sah_
Data Type: | xbrli:integerItemType
Balance Type: | na
Period Type: | instant

X
- Definition Percentage of mortgage dealership properties. + References No definition available. + Details
Name: | sah_PercentageOfMortgageDealershipProperties
Namespace Prefix: | sah_
Data Type: | num:percentItemType
Balance Type: | na
Period Type: | duration

X
- Definition Availability under the an entity's credit facility calculated as the lesser of a specified flate amount or a borrowing base calculated based on certain eligible assets, less the aggregate face amount of any outstanding letters of credit under the Credit Facility. + References No definition available. + Details
Name: | sah_RevolvingBorrowingBase
Namespace Prefix: | sah_
Data Type: | xbrli:monetaryItemType
Balance Type: | credit
Period Type: | instant

X
- Definition Total number of common shares of an entity that have been sold or granted to shareholders (includes common shares that were issued, repurchased and remain in the treasury). These shares represent capital invested by the firm's shareholders and owners, and may be all or only a portion of the number of shares authorized. Shares issued include shares outstanding and shares held in the treasury. + References Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher FASB -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Topic 210 -SubTopic 10 -Section S99 -Paragraph 1 -Subparagraph (SX 210.5-02.29) -URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=6877327&loc=d3e13212-122682 Reference 2: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher SEC -Name Regulation S-X (SX) -Number 210 -Section 02 -Paragraph 30 -Article 5 + Details
Name: | us-gaap_CommonStockSharesIssued
Namespace Prefix: | us-gaap_
Data Type: | xbrli:sharesItemType
Balance Type: | na
Period Type: | instant

X
- Definition Amount of long-term debt before deduction of unamortized discount or premium. Includes, but is not limited to, notes payable, bonds payable, commercial loans, mortgage loans, convertible debt, subordinated debt and other types of debt, with initial maturities beyond one year or the normal operating cycle, if longer. + References Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher SEC -Name Regulation S-X (SX) -Number 210 -Section 02 -Paragraph 20 -Article 5 Reference 2: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher FASB -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Topic 210 -SubTopic 10 -Section S99 -Paragraph 1 -Subparagraph (SX 210.5-02.22) -URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=6877327&loc=d3e13212-122682 Reference 3: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher SEC -Name Regulation S-X (SX) -Number 210 -Section 02 -Paragraph 22 -Article 5 Reference 4: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher SEC -Name Regulation S-X (SX) -Number 210 -Section 03 -Paragraph 16 -Article 9 + Details
Name: | us-gaap_DebtInstrumentCarryingAmount
Namespace Prefix: | us-gaap_
Data Type: | xbrli:monetaryItemType
Balance Type: | credit
Period Type: | instant

X
- Definition Face (par) amount of debt instrument at time of issuance. + References Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher FASB -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Topic 835 -SubTopic 30 -Section 45 -Paragraph 2 -URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=6451184&loc=d3e28551-108399 Reference 2: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher FASB -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Topic 835 -SubTopic 30 -Section 55 -Paragraph 8 -URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=34725769&loc=d3e28878-108400 + Details
Name: | us-gaap_DebtInstrumentFaceAmount
Namespace Prefix: | us-gaap_
Data Type: | xbrli:monetaryItemType
Balance Type: | credit
Period Type: | instant

X
- Definition Description of the frequency of periodic payments (monthly, quarterly, annual). + References Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher FASB -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Topic 210 -SubTopic 10 -Section S99 -Paragraph 1 -Subparagraph (SX 210.5-02.22) -URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=6877327&loc=d3e13212-122682 Reference 2: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher SEC -Name Regulation S-X (SX) -Number 210 -Section 02 -Paragraph 22 -Article 5 Reference 3: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher FASB -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Topic 942 -SubTopic 470 -Section 50 -Paragraph 3 -Subparagraph (c) -URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=6479336&loc=d3e64711-112823 + Details
Name: | us-gaap_DebtInstrumentFrequencyOfPeriodicPayment
Namespace Prefix: | us-gaap_
Data Type: | xbrli:stringItemType
Balance Type: | na
Period Type: | duration

X
- Definition Effective interest rate for the funds borrowed under the debt agreement considering interest compounding and original issue discount or premium. + References Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher FASB -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Topic 835 -SubTopic 30 -Section 45 -Paragraph 2 -URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=6451184&loc=d3e28551-108399 Reference 2: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher SEC -Name Regulation S-X (SX) -Number 210 -Section 02 -Paragraph 22 -Article 5 Reference 3: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher FASB -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Topic 210 -SubTopic 10 -Section S99 -Paragraph 1 -Subparagraph (SX 210.5-02.22(a)(1)) -URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=6877327&loc=d3e13212-122682 + Details
Name: | us-gaap_DebtInstrumentInterestRateEffectivePercentage
Namespace Prefix: | us-gaap_
Data Type: | num:percentItemType
Balance Type: | na
Period Type: | instant

X
- Definition Contractual interest rate for funds borrowed, under the debt agreement. + References Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher SEC -Name Regulation S-X (SX) -Number 210 -Section 02 -Paragraph 22 -Article 5 Reference 2: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher FASB -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Topic 210 -SubTopic 10 -Section S99 -Paragraph 1 -Subparagraph (SX 210.5-02.22(a)(1)) -URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=6877327&loc=d3e13212-122682 + Details
Name: | us-gaap_DebtInstrumentInterestRateStatedPercentage
Namespace Prefix: | us-gaap_
Data Type: | num:percentItemType
Balance Type: | na
Period Type: | instant

X
- Details
Name: | us-gaap_DebtInstrumentLineItems
Namespace Prefix: | us-gaap_
Data Type: | xbrli:stringItemType
Balance Type: | na
Period Type: | duration

X
- Definition Date when the debt instrument is scheduled to be fully repaid, in CCYY-MM-DD format. + References Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher SEC -Name Regulation S-X (SX) -Number 210 -Section 02 -Paragraph 22 -Article 5 Reference 2: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher FASB -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Topic 210 -SubTopic 10 -Section S99 -Paragraph 1 -Subparagraph (SX 210.5-02.22(a)(2)) -URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=6877327&loc=d3e13212-122682 + Details
Name: | us-gaap_DebtInstrumentMaturityDate
Namespace Prefix: | us-gaap_
Data Type: | xbrli:dateItemType
Balance Type: | na
Period Type: | duration

X
- Definition Description of the maturity date of the debt instrument including whether the debt matures serially and, if so, a brief description of the serial maturities. + References Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher SEC -Name Regulation S-X (SX) -Number 210 -Section 02 -Paragraph 22 -Article 5 Reference 2: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher FASB -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Topic 210 -SubTopic 10 -Section S99 -Paragraph 1 -Subparagraph (SX 210.5-02.22(a)(2)) -URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=6877327&loc=d3e13212-122682 + Details
Name: | us-gaap_DebtInstrumentMaturityDateDescription
Namespace Prefix: | us-gaap_
Data Type: | xbrli:stringItemType
Balance Type: | na
Period Type: | duration

X
- Definition Percentage of principal amount of debt redeemed. + References No definition available. + Details
Name: | us-gaap_DebtInstrumentRedemptionPricePercentageOfPrincipalAmountRedeemed
Namespace Prefix: | us-gaap_
Data Type: | num:percentItemType
Balance Type: | na
Period Type: | duration

X
- Definition Description of covenants that limit or prohibit certain actions or activities without the lender's prior consent within a specified period of time or until certain specified targets are achieved for example, reduction of the debt or an increase in net worth to a specified amount). + References Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher FASB -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Topic 235 -SubTopic 10 -Section S99 -Paragraph 1 -Subparagraph (SX 210.4-08.(e)) -URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=26873400&loc=d3e23780-122690 Reference 2: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher SEC -Name Regulation S-X (SX) -Number 210 -Section 08 -Paragraph e -Article 4 Reference 3: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher FASB -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Topic 942 -SubTopic 470 -Section 50 -Paragraph 3 -Subparagraph (g) -URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=6479336&loc=d3e64711-112823 + Details
Name: | us-gaap_DebtInstrumentRestrictiveCovenants
Namespace Prefix: | us-gaap_
Data Type: | xbrli:stringItemType
Balance Type: | na
Period Type: | duration

X
- Definition The amount of debt premium that was originally recognized at the issuance of the instrument that has yet to be amortized. + References Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher FASB -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Topic 835 -SubTopic 30 -Section 45 -Paragraph 1A -URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=6451184&loc=d3e28541-108399 Reference 2: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher FASB -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Topic 835 -SubTopic 30 -Section 55 -Paragraph 8 -URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=34725769&loc=d3e28878-108400 + Details
Name: | us-gaap_DebtInstrumentUnamortizedPremium
Namespace Prefix: | us-gaap_
Data Type: | xbrli:monetaryItemType
Balance Type: | credit
Period Type: | instant

X
- Definition Weighted average interest rate of debt outstanding. + References No definition available. + Details
Name: | us-gaap_DebtWeightedAverageInterestRate
Namespace Prefix: | us-gaap_
Data Type: | num:percentItemType
Balance Type: | na
Period Type: | instant

X
- Definition Fair value, before effects of master netting arrangements, of a financial asset or other contract with one or more underlyings, notional amount or payment provision or both, and the contract can be net settled by means outside the contract or delivery of an asset. Includes assets elected not to be offset. Excludes assets not subject to a master netting arrangement. + References Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher FASB -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Topic 210 -SubTopic 20 -Section 50 -Paragraph 3 -Subparagraph (a) -URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=34720828&loc=SL20225862-175312 Reference 2: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher FASB -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Topic 815 -SubTopic 10 -Section 50 -Paragraph 4B -Subparagraph (a),(c) -URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=35706170&loc=SL5624163-113959 Reference 3: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher FASB -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Topic 210 -SubTopic 20 -Section 55 -Paragraph 7 -URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=36459792&loc=SL20226000-175313 + Details
Name: | us-gaap_DerivativeFairValueOfDerivativeAsset
Namespace Prefix: | us-gaap_
Data Type: | xbrli:monetaryItemType
Balance Type: | debit
Period Type: | instant

X
- Definition Fair value, before effects of master netting arrangements, of a financial liability or contract with one or more underlyings, notional amount or payment provision or both, and the contract can be net settled by means outside the contract or delivery of an asset. Includes liabilities elected not to be offset. Excludes liabilities not subject to a master netting arrangement. + References Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher FASB -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Topic 210 -SubTopic 20 -Section 50 -Paragraph 3 -Subparagraph (a) -URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=34720828&loc=SL20225862-175312 Reference 2: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher FASB -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Topic 815 -SubTopic 10 -Section 50 -Paragraph 4B -Subparagraph (a),(c) -URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=35706170&loc=SL5624163-113959 Reference 3: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher FASB -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Topic 210 -SubTopic 20 -Section 55 -Paragraph 7 -URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=36459792&loc=SL20226000-175313 + Details
Name: | us-gaap_DerivativeFairValueOfDerivativeLiability
Namespace Prefix: | us-gaap_
Data Type: | xbrli:monetaryItemType
Balance Type: | credit
Period Type: | instant

X
- Definition Nominal or face amount used to calculate payments on the derivative liability. + References Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher FASB -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Topic 815 -SubTopic 10 -Section 50 -Paragraph 1B -URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=35706170&loc=SL5580258-113959 Reference 2: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher FASB -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Topic 815 -SubTopic 10 -Section 50 -Paragraph 1A -Subparagraph (d) -URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=35706170&loc=SL5579245-113959 Reference 3: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher FASB -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Glossary Notional Amount -URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=6519104 + Details
Name: | us-gaap_DerivativeLiabilityNotionalAmount
Namespace Prefix: | us-gaap_
Data Type: | xbrli:monetaryItemType
Balance Type: | na
Period Type: | instant

X
- Definition The estimated net amount of unrealized gains or losses on interest rate cash flow hedges as of the balance sheet date expected to be reclassified to earnings within the next twelve months. + References Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher FASB -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Topic 815 -SubTopic 30 -Section 50 -Paragraph 1 -Subparagraph (c) -URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=35736893&loc=d3e80748-113994 + Details
Name: | us-gaap_InterestRateCashFlowHedgeGainLossToBeReclassifiedDuringNext12MonthsNet
Namespace Prefix: | us-gaap_
Data Type: | xbrli:monetaryItemType
Balance Type: | credit
Period Type: | instant

X
- Definition The total amount of the contingent obligation under letters of credit outstanding as of the reporting date. + References No definition available. + Details
Name: | us-gaap_LettersOfCreditOutstandingAmount
Namespace Prefix: | us-gaap_
Data Type: | xbrli:monetaryItemType
Balance Type: | credit
Period Type: | instant

X
- Definition Amount of current borrowing capacity under the credit facility considering any current restrictions on the amount that could be borrowed (for example, borrowings may be limited by the amount of current assets), but without considering any amounts currently outstanding under the facility. + References Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher FASB -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Topic 210 -SubTopic 10 -Section S99 -Paragraph 1 -Subparagraph (SX 210.5-02.19(b),22(b)) -URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=6877327&loc=d3e13212-122682 Reference 2: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher SEC -Name Regulation S-X (SX) -Number 210 -Section 02 -Paragraph 19, 22 -Article 5 + Details
Name: | us-gaap_LineOfCreditFacilityCurrentBorrowingCapacity
Namespace Prefix: | us-gaap_
Data Type: | xbrli:monetaryItemType
Balance Type: | credit
Period Type: | instant

X
- Definition Date the credit facility terminates, in CCYY-MM-DD format. + References Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher FASB -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Topic 210 -SubTopic 10 -Section S99 -Paragraph 1 -Subparagraph (SX 210.5-02.19(b),22(b)) -URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=6877327&loc=d3e13212-122682 Reference 2: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher SEC -Name Regulation S-X (SX) -Number 210 -Section 02 -Paragraph 19, 22 -Article 5 + Details
Name: | us-gaap_LineOfCreditFacilityExpirationDate1
Namespace Prefix: | us-gaap_
Data Type: | xbrli:dateItemType
Balance Type: | na
Period Type: | duration

X
- Definition Maximum borrowing capacity under the credit facility without consideration of any current restrictions on the amount that could be borrowed or the amounts currently outstanding under the facility. + References Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher FASB -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Topic 210 -SubTopic 10 -Section S99 -Paragraph 1 -Subparagraph (SX 210.5-02.19(b),22(b)) -URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=6877327&loc=d3e13212-122682 Reference 2: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher SEC -Name Regulation S-X (SX) -Number 210 -Section 02 -Paragraph 19, 22 -Article 5 + Details
Name: | us-gaap_LineOfCreditFacilityMaximumBorrowingCapacity
Namespace Prefix: | us-gaap_
Data Type: | xbrli:monetaryItemType
Balance Type: | credit
Period Type: | instant

X
- Definition Amount of borrowing capacity currently available under the credit facility (current borrowing capacity less the amount of borrowings outstanding). + References Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher FASB -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Topic 210 -SubTopic 10 -Section S99 -Paragraph 1 -Subparagraph (SX 210.5-02.19(b),22(b)) -URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=6877327&loc=d3e13212-122682 Reference 2: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher SEC -Name Regulation S-X (SX) -Number 210 -Section 02 -Paragraph 19, 22 -Article 5 + Details
Name: | us-gaap_LineOfCreditFacilityRemainingBorrowingCapacity
Namespace Prefix: | us-gaap_
Data Type: | xbrli:monetaryItemType
Balance Type: | credit
Period Type: | instant

X
- Definition Carrying value as of the balance sheet date, including the current and noncurrent portions, of collateralized debt obligations (with maturities initially due after one year or beyond the operating cycle, if longer). Such obligations include mortgage loans, chattel loans, and any other borrowings secured by assets of the borrower. + References Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher FASB -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Topic 942 -SubTopic 210 -Section S99 -Paragraph 1 -Subparagraph (SX 210.9-03.16) -URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=6876686&loc=d3e534808-122878 Reference 2: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher SEC -Name Regulation S-X (SX) -Number 210 -Section 03 -Paragraph 16 -Article 9 Reference 3: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher SEC -Name Regulation S-X (SX) -Number 210 -Section 02 -Paragraph 19, 20, 22 -Article 5 Reference 4: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher FASB -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Topic 944 -SubTopic 210 -Section S99 -Paragraph 1 -Subparagraph (SX 210.7-03.16) -URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=6879938&loc=d3e572229-122910 + Details
Name: | us-gaap_SecuredDebt
Namespace Prefix: | us-gaap_
Data Type: | xbrli:monetaryItemType
Balance Type: | credit
Period Type: | instant

X
- Details
Name: | us-gaap_CreditFacilityAxis=sah_TwoThousandElevenCreditFacilityMember
Namespace Prefix: |
Data Type: | na
Balance Type: |
Period Type: |

X
- Details
Name: | us-gaap_CreditFacilityAxis=sah_TwoThousandElevenNewUsedVehicleFloorPlanFacilityMember
Namespace Prefix: |
Data Type: | na
Balance Type: |
Period Type: |

X
- Details
Name: | us-gaap_CreditFacilityAxis=sah_TwoThousandElevenRevolvingCreditFacilityMember
Namespace Prefix: |
Data Type: | na
Balance Type: |
Period Type: |

X
- Details
Name: | us-gaap_CreditFacilityAxis=sah_TwoThousandFourteenCreditFacilityMember
Namespace Prefix: |
Data Type: | na
Balance Type: |
Period Type: |

X
- Details
Name: | us-gaap_CreditFacilityAxis=sah_TwoThousandFourteenNewVehicleFloorPlanFacilityMember
Namespace Prefix: |
Data Type: | na
Balance Type: |
Period Type: |

X
- Details
Name: | us-gaap_CreditFacilityAxis=sah_TwoThousandFourteenUsedVehicleFloorPlanFacilityMember
Namespace Prefix: |
Data Type: | na
Balance Type: |
Period Type: |

X
- Details
Name: | us-gaap_DerivativeInstrumentRiskAxis=sah_CashFlowSwapFourteenMember
Namespace Prefix: |
Data Type: | na
Balance Type: |
Period Type: |

X
- Details
Name: | us-gaap_DerivativeInstrumentRiskAxis=sah_CashFlowSwapThirteenMember
Namespace Prefix: |
Data Type: | na
Balance Type: |
Period Type: |

X
- Details
Name: | us-gaap_LongtermDebtTypeAxis=sah_ActualRatioMember
Namespace Prefix: |
Data Type: | na
Balance Type: |
Period Type: |

X
- Details
Name: | us-gaap_LongtermDebtTypeAxis=sah_AssumedNotesMember
Namespace Prefix: |
Data Type: | na
Balance Type: |
Period Type: |

X
- Details
Name: | us-gaap_LongtermDebtTypeAxis=sah_DerivativeInstrumentsAndHedgingActivitiesMember
Namespace Prefix: |
Data Type: | na
Balance Type: |
Period Type: |

X
- Details
Name: | us-gaap_LongtermDebtTypeAxis=sah_FivePercentSeniorSubordinateNoteDueTwoThousandTwentyThreeMember
Namespace Prefix: |
Data Type: | na
Balance Type: |
Period Type: |

X
- Details
Name: | us-gaap_LongtermDebtTypeAxis=sah_MortgageNotesMember
Namespace Prefix: |
Data Type: | na
Balance Type: |
Period Type: |

X
- Details
Name: | us-gaap_LongtermDebtTypeAxis=sah_RequiredRatioMember
Namespace Prefix: |
Data Type: | na
Balance Type: |
Period Type: |

X
- Details
Name: | us-gaap_LongtermDebtTypeAxis=sah_SevenPercentSeniorSubordinateNoteDueTwoThousandTwentyTwoMember
Namespace Prefix: |
Data Type: | na
Balance Type: |
Period Type: |

X
- Details
Name: | us-gaap_LongtermDebtTypeAxis=sah_TwoThousandFourteenRevolvingCreditFacilityMember
Namespace Prefix: |
Data Type: | na
Balance Type: |
Period Type: |

X
- Details
Name: | us-gaap_LongtermDebtTypeAxis=us-gaap_SeniorSubordinatedNotesMember
Namespace Prefix: |
Data Type: | na
Balance Type: |
Period Type: |

X
- Details
Name: | us-gaap_StatementClassOfStockAxis=us-gaap_CommonClassAMember
Namespace Prefix: |
Data Type: | na
Balance Type: |
Period Type: |