Computation of Basic and Diluted Earnings Per Share (Detail) (USD $) In Thousands, except Share data, unless otherwise specified	3 Months Ended		9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2012	Sep. 30, 2011	Sep. 30, 2012	Sep. 30, 2011
Numerator
Numerator for basic and diluted earnings per share - Net income attributable to common stockholders	$ 74,113	$ 17,281	$ 147,427	$ 44,478
Denominator
Denominator for basic earnings per share - weighted average shares outstanding	62,561	62,266	62,405	62,106
Effect of dilutive securities - stock options and other stock units	713	576	637	971
Denominator for diluted earnings per share - adjusted weighted average shares outstanding	63,274	62,842	63,042	63,077
Basic earnings per share:
Net income attributable to Cooper Tire & Rubber Company common stockholders	$ 1.18	$ 0.28	$ 2.36	$ 0.72
Diluted earnings per share:
Net income attributable to Cooper Tire & Rubber Company common stockholders	$ 1.17	$ 0.27	$ 2.34	$ 0.71