Consolidated Condensed Statement of Comprehensive Income (Unaudited) (USD $) In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	6 Months Ended
	Jun. 30, 2012	Jun. 30, 2011
Consolidated Condensed Statement of Comprehensive Income [Abstract]
Net income	$ 13,273	$ 152
Other comprehensive income, before tax:
Foreign currency translation adjustments	(2,431)	3,696
Unrealized gain(loss) on interest rate derivative securities	(30)
Other comprehensive income, before tax	(2,461)	3,696
Income tax expense related to items of other comprehensive income
Other comprehensive income, net of tax	(2,461)	3,696
Comprehensive income	10,812	3,848
Less: comprehensive income attributable to the non-controlling interest	2,247	363
Comprehensive income attributable to Amerigon	$ 8,565	$ 3,485