Lithia Motors (LAD) 10-K 21 Feb 14 2013 FY Annual report Financial data

Document_And_Entity_Informatio

Document And Entity Information (USD $)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2013	Jun. 30, 2013	Feb. 21, 2014	Feb. 21, 2014
			Common Class A [Member]	Common Class B [Member]
Document Information [Line Items]	'	'	'	'
Entity Registrant Name	'LITHIA MOTORS INC	'	'	'
Document Type	'10-K	'	'	'
Current Fiscal Year End Date	'--12-31	'	'	'
Entity Common Stock, Shares Outstanding	'	'	23,354,548	2,562,231
Entity Public Float	'	$1,240,097,000	'	'
Amendment Flag	'false	'	'	'
Entity Central Index Key	'0001023128	'	'	'
Entity Current Reporting Status	'Yes	'	'	'
Entity Voluntary Filers	'No	'	'	'
Entity Filer Category	'Large Accelerated Filer	'	'	'
Entity Well-known Seasoned Issuer	'Yes	'	'	'
Document Period End Date	31-Dec-13	'	'	'
Document Fiscal Year Focus	'2013	'	'	'
Document Fiscal Period Focus	'FY	'	'	'

Consolidated_Balance_Sheets

Consolidated Balance Sheets (USD $)	Dec. 31, 2013		Dec. 31, 2012
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified
Assets	'		'
Cash and cash equivalents	$23,686		$42,839
Accounts receivable, net of allowance for doubtful accounts of $173 and $336	170,519		133,149
Inventories, net	859,019		723,326
Deferred income taxes	1,548		3,832
Other current assets	15,251		17,484
Assets held for sale	11,526		12,579
Total Current Assets	1,081,549		933,209
Property and equipment, net of accumulated depreciation of $106,871 and $97,883	481,212		425,086
Goodwill	49,511		32,047
Franchise value	71,199		62,429
Deferred income taxes	10,256		17,123
Other non-current assets	31,394		22,808
Total Assets	1,725,121		1,492,702
Liabilities and Stockholders' Equity	'		'
Floor plan notes payable	18,789	[1]	13,454	[1]
Floor plan notes payable: non-trade	695,066	[1],[2]	568,130	[1],[2]
Current maturities of long-term debt	7,083		8,182
Trade payables	51,159		41,589
Accrued liabilities	94,143		81,602
Liabilities related to assets held for sale	6,271		8,347
Total Current Liabilities	872,511		721,304
Long-term debt, less current maturities	245,471		286,876
Deferred revenue	44,005		33,589
Other long-term liabilities	28,412		22,832
Total Liabilities	1,190,399		1,064,601
Additional paid-in capital	22,598		12,399
Accumulated other comprehensive loss	-1,538		-2,615
Retained earnings	245,088		149,173
Total Stockholders' Equity	534,722		428,101
Total Liabilities and Stockholders' Equity	1,725,121		1,492,702
Common Class A [Member]	'		'
Liabilities and Stockholders' Equity	'		'
Common stock, value issued	268,255		268,801
Common Class B [Member]	'		'
Liabilities and Stockholders' Equity	'		'
Common stock, value issued	$319		$343
[1]	At December 31, 2013, an additional $4.8 million of floor plan notes payable outstanding on our new vehicle floor plan commitment and $1.5 million of floor plan notes payable on vehicles designated as service loaners are recorded as liabilities related to assets held for sale.
[2]	As of December 31, 2013 and 2012, we had a new vehicle floor plan commitment of $700 million and $575 million, respectively, as part of our credit facility.

Consolidated_Balance_Sheets_Pa

Consolidated Balance Sheets (Parentheticals) (USD $)	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified
Allowance for doubtful accounts (in Dollars)	$173	$336
Accumulated depreciation (in Dollars)	$106,871	$97,883
Preferred stock, shares authorized	15,000	15,000
Preferred stock, shares outstanding	0	0
Preferred stock, par value (in Dollars per share)	'	'
Common Class A [Member]	'	'
Common stock, par value (in Dollars per share)	'	'
Common stock, shares authorized	100,000	100,000
Common stock, shares issued	23,329	22,916
Common stock, shares outstanding	23,329	22,916
Common Class B [Member]	'	'
Common stock, par value (in Dollars per share)	'	'
Common stock, shares authorized	25,000	25,000
Common stock, shares issued	2,562	2,762
Common stock, shares outstanding	2,562	2,762

Consolidated_Statements_of_Ope

Consolidated Statements of Operations (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Thousands, except Per Share data, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012	Dec. 31, 2011
Sales revenue	$4,005,749	$3,316,487	$2,632,746
Cost of revenue	3,374,796	2,777,187	2,187,462
Gross profit	630,953	539,300	445,284
Asset impairments	'	115	1,376
Selling, general and administrative	427,400	373,688	316,663
Operating income	183,518	148,369	110,818
Floor plan interest expense	-12,373	-12,816	-10,364
Other interest expense	-8,350	-9,621	-12,878
Other income, net	2,993	2,525	694
Income from continuing operations before income taxes	165,788	128,457	88,270
Income tax provision	-60,574	-49,062	-33,060
Income from continuing operations, net of income tax	105,214	79,395	55,210
Income from discontinued operations, net of income tax	786	967	3,650
Net income	106,000	80,362	58,860
Basic income per share from continuing operations (in Dollars per share)	$4.08	$3.09	$2.10
Basic income per share from discontinued operations (in Dollars per share)	$0.03	$0.04	$0.14
Basic net income per share (in Dollars per share)	$4.11	$3.13	$2.24
Shares used in basic per share calculations (in Shares)	25,805	25,696	26,230
Diluted income per share from continuing operations (in Dollars per share)	$4.02	$3.03	$2.07
Diluted income per share from discontinued operations (in Dollars per share)	$0.03	$0.04	$0.14
Diluted net income per share (in Dollars per share)	$4.05	$3.07	$2.21
Shares used in diluted per share calculations (in Shares)	26,191	26,170	26,664
New Vehicle [Member]	'	'	'
Sales revenue	2,256,598	1,847,603	1,391,375
Cost of revenue	2,105,480	1,713,156	1,284,225
Used Retail Vehicle [Member]	'	'	'
Sales revenue	1,032,224	833,484	678,571
Cost of revenue	881,366	711,763	580,357
Used Wholesale Vehicle [Member]	'	'	'
Sales revenue	158,235	139,237	128,329
Cost of revenue	155,524	137,823	127,732
Finance and Insurance [Member]	'	'	'
Sales revenue	139,007	112,234	84,130
Service, Body and Parts [Member]	'	'	'
Sales revenue	383,483	347,703	315,958
Cost of revenue	197,913	179,633	163,738
Fleet and Other [Member]	'	'	'
Sales revenue	36,202	36,226	34,383
Cost of revenue	34,513	34,812	31,410
Continuing Operations [Member]	'	'	'
Depreciation and amortization	20,035	17,128	16,427
Income tax provision	($60,574)	($49,062)	($33,060)

Consolidated_Statements_of_Com

Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012	Dec. 31, 2011
Net income	$106,000	$80,362	$58,860
Gain on cash flow hedges, net of tax expense of $668, $1,175 and $195	1,077	1,893	361
Comprehensive income	$107,077	$82,255	$59,221

Consolidated_Statements_of_Com1

Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income (Parentheticals) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012	Dec. 31, 2011
Gain on cash flow hedges, tax expense	$668	$1,175	$195

Consolidated_Statements_of_Cha

Consolidated Statements of Changes in Stockholders' Equity (USD $)	Common Stock [Member]	Common Stock [Member]	Additional Paid-in Capital [Member]	Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) [Member]	Retained Earnings [Member]	Common Class A [Member]	Total
In Thousands, except Share data	Common Class A [Member]	Common Class B [Member]	USD ($)	USD ($)	USD ($)		USD ($)
	USD ($)	USD ($)
Balance at Dec. 31, 2010	$284,807	$468	$10,972	($4,869)	$28,839	'	$320,217
Balance (in Shares) at Dec. 31, 2010	22,523,000	3,762,000	'	'	'	'	'
Net income	'	'	'	'	58,860	'	58,860
Fair value of interest rate swap agreements, net of tax expense (benefit)	'	'	'	361	'	'	361
Issuance of stock in connection with employee stock plans	5,654	'	'	'	'	'	5,654
Issuance of stock in connection with employee stock plans (in Shares)	438,000	'	'	'	'	'	'
Issuance of restricted stock to employees (in Shares)	11,000	'	'	'	'	'	'
Shares forfeited by employees (in Shares)	-5,000	'	'	'	'	'	'
Repurchase of Class A common stock	-13,568	'	'	'	'	'	-13,568
Repurchase of Class A common stock (in Shares)	-772,000	'	'	'	'	'	-419,376
Compensation for stock and stock option issuances and excess tax benefits from option exercises	2,473	'	-54	'	'	'	2,419
Dividends paid	'	'	'	'	-6,822	'	-6,822
Balance at Dec. 31, 2011	279,366	468	10,918	-4,508	80,877	'	367,121
Balance (in Shares) at Dec. 31, 2011	22,195,000	3,762,000	'	'	'	'	'
Net income	'	'	'	'	80,362	'	80,362
Fair value of interest rate swap agreements, net of tax expense (benefit)	'	'	'	1,893	'	'	1,893
Issuance of stock in connection with employee stock plans	8,652	'	'	'	'	'	8,652
Issuance of stock in connection with employee stock plans (in Shares)	647,000	'	'	'	'	'	'
Issuance of restricted stock to employees (in Shares)	3,000	'	'	'	'	'	'
Repurchase of Class A common stock	-23,279	'	'	'	'	'	-23,279
Repurchase of Class A common stock (in Shares)	-929,000	'	'	'	'	'	'
Class B common stock converted to Class A common stock	125	-125	'	'	'	'	'
Class B common stock converted to Class A common stock (in Shares)	1,000,000	-1,000,000	'	'	'	'	'
Compensation for stock and stock option issuances and excess tax benefits from option exercises	3,937	'	1,481	'	'	'	5,418
Dividends paid	'	'	'	'	-12,066	'	-12,066
Balance at Dec. 31, 2012	268,801	343	12,399	-2,615	149,173	'	428,101
Balance (in Shares) at Dec. 31, 2012	22,916,000	2,762,000	'	'	'	'	'
Net income	'	'	'	'	106,000	'	106,000
Fair value of interest rate swap agreements, net of tax expense (benefit)	'	'	'	1,077	'	'	1,077
Issuance of stock in connection with employee stock plans	5,149	'	'	'	'	'	5,149
Issuance of stock in connection with employee stock plans (in Shares)	283,000	'	'	'	'	'	'
Issuance of restricted stock to employees (in Shares)	117,000	'	'	'	'	'	'
Repurchase of Class A common stock	-7,903	'	'	'	'	'	-7,903
Repurchase of Class A common stock (in Shares)	-187,000	'	'	'	'	'	'
Class B common stock converted to Class A common stock	24	-24	'	'	'	'	'
Class B common stock converted to Class A common stock (in Shares)	200,000	-200,000	'	'	'	'	'
Compensation for stock and stock option issuances and excess tax benefits from option exercises	2,184	'	10,199	'	'	'	12,383
Dividends paid	'	'	'	'	-10,085	'	-10,085
Balance at Dec. 31, 2013	$268,255	$319	$22,598	($1,538)	$245,088	'	$534,722
Balance (in Shares) at Dec. 31, 2013	23,329,000	2,562,000	'	'	'	'	'

Consolidated_Statements_of_Cha1

Consolidated Statements of Changes in Stockholders' Equity (Parentheticals) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012	Dec. 31, 2011
Tax expense	$668	$1,175	$195

Consolidated_Statements_of_Cas

Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012	Dec. 31, 2011
Cash flows from operating activities:	'	'	'
Net income	$106,000	$80,362	$58,860
Adjustments to reconcile net income to net cash provided by (used in) operating activities:	'	'	'
Asset impairments	'	115	1,376
Stock-based compensation	6,565	3,116	2,001
Gain on disposal of other assets	-2,339	-747	-6,495
(Gain) loss from disposal activities within discontinued operations	'	621	-4,396
Deferred income taxes	14,477	14,172	8,093
Excess tax benefit from share-based payment arrangements	-5,994	-2,802	-525
(Increase) decrease (net of acquisitions and dispositions):	'	'	'
Trade receivables, net	-37,370	-33,704	-22,503
Inventories	-106,896	-230,442	-78,202
Other current assets	-901	-4,194	-13,111
Other non-current assets	-4,754	-6,176	-1,108
Increase (decrease) (net of acquisitions and dispositions):	'	'	'
Floor plan notes payable	5,300	-82,109	13,510
Trade payables	8,480	8,001	5,998
Accrued liabilities	12,304	10,538	11,605
Other long-term liabilities and deferred revenue	17,152	13,459	7,183
Net cash provided by (used in) operating activities	32,059	-212,476	-766
Cash flows from investing activities:	'	'	'
Principal payments received on notes receivable	91	946	121
Capital expenditures	-50,025	-64,584	-31,673
Proceeds from sales of assets	4,632	6,027	29,677
Cash paid for acquisitions, net of cash acquired	-81,105	-44,716	-60,485
Payments for life insurance policies	-3,915	-3,288	-900
Proceeds from sales of stores	'	6,618	23,838
Net cash used in investing activities	-130,322	-98,997	-39,422
Cash flows from financing activities:	'	'	'
Borrowings on floor plan notes payable: non-trade	128,636	348,477	63,145
Borrowings on lines of credit	800,000	592,623	56,000
Repayments on lines of credit	-814,355	-580,269	-9,000
Proceeds from issuance of long-term debt	4,720	42,333	25,674
Proceeds from issuance of common stock	4,973	8,652	5,654
Repurchase of common stock	-7,903	-23,279	-13,568
Excess tax benefit from share-based payment arrangements	5,994	2,802	525
Decrease (increase) in restricted cash	'	3,300	-3,300
Dividends paid	-10,085	-12,066	-6,822
Net cash provided by financing activities	79,110	333,461	51,733
Increase (decrease) in cash and cash equivalents	-19,153	21,988	11,545
Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of year	42,839	20,851	9,306
Cash and cash equivalents at end of year	23,686	42,839	20,851
Supplemental disclosure of cash flow information:	'	'	'
Cash paid during the period for interest	21,002	22,976	24,961
Cash paid during the period for income taxes, net	42,682	36,579	33,722
Supplemental schedule of non-cash activities:	'	'	'
Debt issued in connection with acquisitions	'	2,609	'
Floor plan debt acquired in connection with acquisitions	'	'	19,348
Acquisition of assets with capital leases	36	2,609	'
Floor plan debt paid in connection with store disposals	'	6,712	1,784
Scheduled Payments [Member]	'	'	'
Cash flows from financing activities:	'	'	'
Principal payments on long-term debt	-7,100	-8,347	-10,909
Other Payments [Member]	'	'	'
Cash flows from financing activities:	'	'	'
Principal payments on long-term debt	-25,770	-40,765	-55,666
Continuing Operations [Member]	'	'	'
Adjustments to reconcile net income to net cash provided by (used in) operating activities:	'	'	'
Depreciation and amortization	20,035	17,128	16,427
Deferred income taxes	8,308	13,998	7,720
Discontinued Operations [Member]	'	'	'
Adjustments to reconcile net income to net cash provided by (used in) operating activities:	'	'	'
Depreciation and amortization	'	$186	$521

Note_1_Summary_of_Significant_

Note 1 - Summary of Significant Accounting Policies	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2013
Accounting Policies [Abstract]	'
Significant Accounting Policies [Text Block]	'
	(1)           Summary of Significant Accounting Policies
	Organization and Business
	We are a leading operator of automotive franchises and a retailer of new and used vehicles and related services. As of December 31, 2013, we offered 28 brands of new vehicles and all brands of used vehicles in 94 stores in the United States and online at Lithia.com. We sell new and used cars and replacement parts; provide vehicle maintenance, warranty, paint and repair services; arrange related financing; and sell service contracts, vehicle protection products and credit insurance.
	Our dealerships are primarily located throughout the Western and Midwestern regions of the United States. We target mid-sized regional markets for domestic and import franchises and metropolitan markets for luxury franchises. This strategy enables brand exclusivity with minimal competition from other dealerships with the same franchise in the market.
	Basis of Presentation
	The accompanying Consolidated Financial Statements reflect the results of operations, the financial position and the cash flows for Lithia Motors, Inc. and its directly and indirectly wholly owned subsidiaries. All intercompany balances and transactions have been eliminated in consolidation. The results of operations of stores classified as discontinued operations have been presented on a comparable basis for all periods presented in the accompanying Consolidated Statements of Operations. See Note 15.
	Cash and Cash Equivalents
	Cash and cash equivalents are defined as cash on hand and cash in bank accounts without restrictions.
	Accounts Receivable
	Accounts receivable include amounts due from the following:
		●	various lenders for the financing of vehicles sold;
		●	customers for vehicles sold and service and parts sales;
		●	manufacturers for factory rebates, dealer incentives and warranty reimbursement; and
		●	insurance companies and other miscellaneous receivables.
	Receivables are recorded at invoice and do not bear interest until they are 60 days past due. The allowance for doubtful accounts is estimated based on our historical write-off experience and is reviewed monthly. Account balances are charged against the allowance after all appropriate means of collection have been exhausted and the potential for recovery is considered remote. The annual activity for charges and subsequent recoveries is immaterial. See Note 2.
	Inventories
	Inventories are valued at the lower of market value or cost, using a pooled approach for vehicles and the specific identification method for parts. The cost of new and used vehicle inventories includes the cost of any equipment added, reconditioning and transportation.
	Manufacturers reimburse us for holdbacks, floor plan interest assistance and advertising assistance, which are reflected as a reduction in the carrying value of each vehicle purchased. We recognize advertising assistance, floor plan interest assistance, holdbacks, cash incentives and other rebates received from manufacturers that are tied to specific vehicles as a reduction to cost of sales as the related vehicles are sold.
	Parts purchase discounts that we receive from the manufacturer are reflected as a reduction in the carrying value of the parts purchased from the manufacturer and are recognized as a reduction to cost of goods sold as the related inventory is sold. See Note 3.
	Property and Equipment
	Property and equipment are stated at cost and depreciated over their estimated useful lives on the straight-line basis. Leasehold improvements made at the inception of the lease or during the term of the lease are amortized on a straight-line basis over the shorter of the life of the improvement or the remaining term of the lease.
	The range of estimated useful lives is as follows:
	Buildings and improvements (years)			5	to	40
	Service equipment (years)			5	to	15
	Furniture, office equipment, signs and fixtures (years)			3	to	10
	The cost for maintenance, repairs and minor renewals is expensed as incurred, while significant remodels and betterments are capitalized. In addition, interest on borrowings for major capital projects, significant remodels and betterments are capitalized. Capitalized interest becomes a part of the cost of the depreciable asset and is depreciated according to the estimated useful lives as previously stated. For the years ended December 31, 2013, 2012 and 2011, we recorded capitalized interest of $0.1 million, $0.3 million and $0.2 million, respectively.
	When an asset is retired or otherwise disposed of, the related cost and accumulated depreciation are removed from the accounts, and any gain or loss is credited or charged to income from continuing operations.
	Leased property meeting certain criteria is capitalized and the present value of the related lease payments is recorded as a liability. Amortization of capitalized leased assets is computed on a straight-line basis over the term of the lease, unless the lease transfers title or it contains a bargain purchase option, in which case, it is amortized over the asset’s useful life, and is included in depreciation expense.
	Long-lived assets held and used by us are reviewed for impairment whenever events or circumstances indicate that the carrying amount of assets may not be recoverable. We consider several factors when evaluating whether there are indications of potential impairment related to our long-lived assets, including store profitability, overall macroeconomic factors and impact of our strategic management decisions. If recoverability testing is performed, we evaluate assets to be held and used by comparing the carrying amount of an asset to future net undiscounted cash flows associated with the asset, including its disposition. If such assets are considered to be impaired, the amount by which the carrying amount of the assets exceeds the fair value of the assets is recognized as a charge to income from continuing operations. See Note 4.
	Franchise Value
	We enter into agreements (“Franchise Agreements”) with the manufacturers. Franchise value represents a right received under Franchise Agreements with manufacturers and is identified on an individual store basis.
	We evaluated the useful lives of our Franchise Agreements based on the following factors:
		●	certain of our Franchise Agreements continue indefinitely by their terms;
		●	certain of our Franchise Agreements have limited terms, but are routinely renewed without substantial cost to us;
		●	other than franchise terminations related to the unprecedented reorganizations of Chrysler and General Motors, and allowed by bankruptcy law, we are not aware of manufacturers terminating Franchise Agreements against the wishes of the franchise owners in the ordinary course of business. A manufacturer may pressure a franchise owner to sell a franchise when the owner is in breach of the franchise agreement over an extended period of time;
		●	state dealership franchise laws typically limit the rights of the manufacturer to terminate or not renew a franchise;
		●	we are not aware of any legislation or other factors that would materially change the retail automotive franchise system; and
		●	as evidenced by our acquisition and disposition history, there is an active market for most automotive dealership franchises within the United States. We attribute value to the Franchise Agreements acquired with the dealerships we purchase based on the understanding and industry practice that the Franchise Agreements will be renewed indefinitely by the manufacturer.
	Accordingly, we have determined that our Franchise Agreements will continue to contribute to our cash flows indefinitely and, therefore, have indefinite lives.
	As an indefinite-lived intangible asset, franchise value is tested for impairment at least annually, and more frequently if events or circumstances indicate the carrying value may exceed fair value. The impairment test for indefinite-lived intangible assets requires the comparison of estimated fair value to carrying value. An impairment charge is recorded to the extent the fair value is less than the carrying value. We have the option to qualitatively or quantitatively assess indefinite-lived intangible assets for impairment. In 2013 we evaluated our indefinite-lived intangible assets using a quantitative assessment process. We have determined the appropriate unit of accounting for testing franchise value for impairment is on an individual store basis.
	We test our franchise value for impairment on October 1 of each year. The quantitative assessment uses a multi-period excess earnings (“MPEE”) model to estimate the fair value of our franchises. We have determined that only certain cash flows of the store are directly attributable to franchise rights. Future cash flows are based on recently prepared operating forecasts and business plans to estimate the future economic benefits that the store will generate. Operating forecasts and cash flows include estimated revenue growth rates that are calculated based on management’s forecasted sales projections and on the U.S. Department of Labor, Bureau of Labor Statistics for historical consumer price index data. Additionally, we use a contributory asset charge to represent working capital, personal property and assembled workforce costs. A discount rate is utilized to convert the forecasted cash flows to their present value equivalent. The discount rate applied to the future cash flows factors an equity market risk premium, small stock risk premium, an average peer group beta and a risk-free interest rate. See Note 5.
	Goodwill
	Goodwill represents the excess purchase price over the fair value of net assets acquired which is not allocable to separately identifiable intangible assets. Other identifiable intangible assets, such as franchise rights, are separately recognized if the intangible asset is obtained through contractual or other legal right or if the intangible asset can be sold, transferred, licensed or exchanged.
	Goodwill is not amortized but tested for impairment at least annually, and more frequently if events or circumstances indicate the carrying value of the reporting unit more likely than not exceeds fair value. We have the option to qualitatively or quantitatively assess goodwill for impairment and in 2013 evaluated our goodwill using a quantitative assessment process. We have determined that we operate as one reporting unit for the goodwill impairment test.
	We test our goodwill for impairment on October 1 of each year. We used an Adjusted Present Value (“APV”) method, a fair-value based test, to indicate the fair value of our reporting unit. Under the APV method, future cash flows based on recently prepared operating forecasts and business plans are used to estimate the future economic benefits generated by the reporting unit. Operating forecasts and cash flows include estimated revenue growth rates based on management’s forecasted sales projections and on U.S. Department of Labor, Bureau of Labor Statistics for historical consumer price index data. A discount rate is utilized to convert the forecasted cash flows to their present value equivalent representing the indicated fair value of our reporting unit. The discount rate applied to the future cash flows factors an equity market risk premium, small stock risk premium, an average peer group beta and a risk-free interest rate. We compare the indicated fair value of our reporting unit to our market capitalization, including consideration of a control premium. The control premium represents the estimated amount an investor would pay to obtain a controlling interest. We believe this reconciliation is consistent with a market participant perspective.
	The quantitative impairment test of goodwill is a two step process. The first step identifies potential impairment by comparing the estimated fair value of a reporting unit with its book value. If the fair value of the reporting unit exceeds the carrying amount, goodwill is not impaired and the second step is not necessary. If the carrying value exceeds the fair value, the second step includes determining the implied fair value in the same manner as the amount of goodwill recognized in a business combination is determined. The implied fair value of goodwill is then compared with the carrying amount of goodwill to determine if an impairment loss is necessary. See Note 5.
	Advertising
	We expense production and other costs of advertising as incurred as a component of selling, general and administrative expense. Additionally, manufacturer cooperative advertising credits for qualifying, specifically-identified advertising expenditures are recognized as a reduction of advertising expense.
	Advertising expense, net of manufacturer cooperative advertising credits, was $39.6 million, $31.9 million and $23.9 million for the years ended December 31, 2013, 2012 and 2011, respectively. Manufacturer cooperative advertising credits were $11.8 million in 2013, $9.6 million in 2012 and $7.8 million in 2011.
	Contract Origination Costs
	Contract origination commissions paid to our employees directly related to the sale of our self-insured lifetime lube, oil and filter service contracts are deferred and charged to expense in proportion to the associated revenue to be recognized.
	Legal Costs
	We are a party to numerous legal proceedings arising in the normal course of business. We accrue for certain legal costs, including attorney fees and potential settlement claims related to various legal proceedings that are estimable and probable. See Note 7.
	Stock-Based Compensation
	Compensation costs associated with equity instruments exchanged for employee and director services are measured at the grant date, based on the fair value of the award, and recognized as an expense over the individual’s requisite service period (generally the vesting period of the equity award). If there is a performance-based element to the award, the expense is recognized based on the estimated attainment level, estimated time to achieve the attainment level and/or the vesting period. See Note 10.
	Income and Other Taxes
	Income taxes are accounted for under the asset and liability method. Deferred tax assets and liabilities are recognized for the future tax consequences attributable to differences between the financial statement carrying amounts of existing assets and liabilities and their respective tax bases and operating loss and tax credit carryforwards. Deferred tax assets and liabilities are measured using enacted tax rates expected to apply to taxable income in the years in which those temporary differences are expected to be recovered or settled. The effect on deferred tax assets and liabilities of a change in tax rates is recognized in income in the period that includes the enactment date. A valuation allowance, if needed, reduces deferred tax assets when it is more likely than not that some or all of the deferred tax assets will not be realized.
	When there are situations with uncertainty as to the timing of the deduction, the amount of the deduction, or the validity of the deduction, we adjust our financial statements to reflect only those tax positions that are more-likely-than-not to be sustained. Positions that meet this criterion are measured using the largest benefit that is more than 50% likely to be realized. Interest and penalties are recorded in the period incurred or accrued when related to an uncertain tax position. See Note 13.
	We account for all taxes assessed by a governmental authority that are directly imposed on a revenue-producing transaction (i.e., sales, use, value-added) on a net (excluded from revenues) basis.
	Concentration of Risk and Uncertainties
	We purchase substantially all of our new vehicles and inventory from various manufacturers at the prevailing prices charged by auto makers to all franchised dealers. Our overall sales could be impacted by the auto manufacturers’ inability or unwillingness to supply dealerships with an adequate supply of popular models.
	We depend on our manufacturers to provide a supply of vehicles which supports expected sales levels. In the event that manufacturers are unable to supply the needed level of vehicles, our financial performance may be adversely impacted.
	We depend on our manufacturers to deliver high-quality, defect-free vehicles. In the event that manufacturers experience future quality issues, our financial performance may be adversely impacted.
We are subject to a concentration of risk in the event of financial distress, including potential reorganization or bankruptcy, of a major vehicle manufacturer. Our sales volume could be materially adversely impacted by the manufacturers’ or distributors’ inability to supply the stores with an adequate supply of vehicles. We also receive incentives and rebates from our manufacturers, including cash allowances, financing programs, discounts, holdbacks and other incentives. These incentives are recorded as receivables on our Consolidated Balance Sheets until payment is received. Our financial condition could be materially adversely impacted by the manufacturers’ or distributors’ inability to continue to offer these incentives and rebates at substantially similar terms, or to pay our outstanding receivables.
We enter into Franchise Agreements with the manufacturers. The Franchise Agreements generally limit the location of the dealership and provide the auto manufacturer approval rights over changes in dealership management and ownership. The auto manufacturers are also entitled to terminate the Franchise Agreement if the dealership is in material breach of the terms. Our ability to expand operations depends, in part, on obtaining consents of the manufacturers for the acquisition of additional dealerships. See also “Goodwill” and “Franchise Value” above.
We have a credit facility with a syndicate of 13 financial institutions, including seven manufacturer-affiliated finance companies. Several of these financial institutions also provide mortgage financing. This credit facility is the primary source of floor plan financing for our new vehicle inventory and also provides used vehicle financing and a revolving line of credit. The term of the facility extends through December 2018, which provides a financing commitment for the next five years. At maturity our financial condition could be materially adversely impacted if lenders are unable to provide credit that has typically been extended to us or with terms unacceptable to us. Our financial condition could be materially adversely impacted if these providers incur losses in the future or undergo funding limitations.
We anticipate continued organic growth and growth through acquisitions. This growth will require additional credit which may be unavailable or with terms unacceptable to us. If these events were to occur, we may not be able to borrow sufficient funds to facilitate our growth.
Financial Instruments, Fair Value and Market Risks
The carrying amounts of cash equivalents, accounts receivable, trade payables, accrued liabilities and short-term borrowings approximate fair value because of the short-term nature and current market rates of these instruments.
Fair value estimates are made at a specific point in time, based on relevant market information about the financial instrument. These estimates are subjective in nature and involve uncertainties and matters of significant judgment and, therefore, cannot be determined with precision. Changes in assumptions could significantly affect the estimates. See Note 12.
We have variable rate floor plan notes payable, mortgages and other credit line borrowings that subject us to market risk exposure. At December 31, 2013, we had $833.8 million outstanding in variable rate debt. These borrowings had interest rates ranging from 1.4% to 3.0% per annum. An increase or decrease in the interest rates would affect interest expense for the period accordingly.
The fair value of long-term, fixed interest rate debt is subject to interest rate risk. Generally, the fair value of fixed interest rate debt will increase as interest rates fall because we could refinance for a lower rate. Conversely, the fair value of fixed interest rate debt will decrease as interest rates rise. The interest rate changes affect the fair value, but do not impact earnings or cash flows. We monitor our fixed interest rate debt regularly, refinancing debt that is materially above market rates if permitted. See Note 12.
We are also subject to market risk from changing interest rates. From time to time, we reduce our exposure to this market risk by entering into interest rate swaps and designating the swaps as cash flow hedges. We are generally exposed to credit or repayment risk based on our relationship with the counterparty to the derivative financial instrument. We minimize the credit or repayment risk on our derivative instruments by entering into transactions with institutions whose credit rating is Aa or higher. See Note 11.
Use of Estimates
The preparation of financial statements in conformity with U.S. generally accepted accounting principles requires management to make estimates and assumptions that affect the amounts reported in the Consolidated Financial Statements and related notes to financial statements. Changes in such estimates may affect amounts reported in future periods.
Estimates are used in the calculation of certain reserves maintained for charge-backs on estimated cancellations of service contracts; life, accident and disability insurance policies; finance fees from customer financing contracts and uncollectible accounts receivable.
We also use estimates in the calculation of various expenses, accruals and reserves, including anticipated losses related to workers’ compensation insurance, anticipated losses related to self-insurance components of our property and casualty and medical insurance, self-insured lifetime lube, oil and filter service contracts, discretionary employee bonuses, warranties provided on certain products and services, legal reserves and stock-based compensation. We also make certain estimates regarding the assessment of the recoverability of long-lived assets, indefinite-lived intangible assets and deferred tax assets.
We offer a limited warranty on the sale of most retail used vehicles. This warranty is based on mileage and time. We also offer a mileage and time based warranty on parts used in our service repair work and on tire purchases. The cost that may be incurred for these warranties is estimated at the time the related revenue is recorded. A reserve for these warranty liabilities is estimated based on current sales levels, warranty experience rates and estimated costs per claim. The annual activity for reserve increases and claims are immaterial. As of December 31, 2013 and 2012, the accrued warranty balance was $0.5 million and $0.3 million, respectively.
Fair Value of Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed
We estimate the fair value of the assets acquired and liabilities assumed in a business combination using various assumptions. The most significant assumptions used relate to determining the fair value of property and equipment and intangible franchise rights.
We estimate the fair value of property and equipment based on a market valuation approach. We use prices and other relevant information generated primarily by recent market transactions involving similar or comparable assets, as well as our historical experience in divestitures, acquisitions and real estate transactions. Additionally, we may use a cost valuation approach to value long-lived assets when a market valuation approach is unavailable. Under this approach, we determine the cost to replace the service capacity of an asset, adjusted for physical and economic obsolescence. When available, we use valuation inputs from independent valuation experts, such as real estate appraisers and brokers, to corroborate our estimates of fair value.
We use a multi-period excess earnings (“MPEE”) model to determine the fair value of intangible franchise rights. Future cash flows are estimated based on the acquired business’s preacquisition performance, management’s forecasted sales projections and historical consumer price index data provided by the U.S. Department of Labor, Bureau of Labor Statistics. Additionally, we use a contributory asset charge to represent working capital, personal property and assembled workforce costs. A discount rate is utilized to convert the forecasted cash flows to their present value equivalent. The discount rate applied to the future cash flows factors an equity market risk premium, small stock risk premium, an average peer group beta, a risk-free interest rate and a premium for forecast risk.
Revenue Recognition
Revenue from the sale of a vehicle is recognized when a contract is signed by the customer, financing has been arranged or collectability is reasonably assured and the delivery of the vehicle to the customer is made. We do not allow the return of new or used vehicles, except where mandated by state law.
Revenue from parts and service is recognized upon delivery of the parts or service to the customer. We allow for customer returns on sales of our parts inventory up to 30 days after the sale. Most parts returns generally occur within one to two weeks from the time of sale, and are not significant.
Finance fees earned for notes placed with financial institutions in connection with customer vehicle financing are recognized, net of estimated charge-backs, as finance and insurance revenue upon acceptance of the credit by the financial institution and recognition of the sale of the vehicle.
Insurance income from third party insurance companies for commissions earned on credit life, accident and disability insurance policies sold in connection with the sale of a vehicle are recognized, net of anticipated cancellations, as finance and insurance revenue upon execution of the insurance contract and recognition of the sale of the vehicle.
Commissions from third party service contracts are recognized, net of anticipated cancellations, as finance and insurance revenue upon sale of the contracts and recognition of the sale of the vehicle. We also participate in future underwriting profit, pursuant to retrospective commission arrangements, which is recognized in income as earned.
Revenue related to self-insured lifetime lube, oil and filter service contracts is deferred and recognized based on expected future claims for service. The expected future claims experience is evaluated periodically to ensure it remains appropriate given actual claims history.
Segment Reporting
We define an operating segment as a component of an enterprise that meets the following criteria:
	●	engages in business activities from which it may earn revenues and incur expenses;
	●	operating results are regularly reviewed by the enterprise’s chief operating decision maker to make decisions about resources to be allocated to the segment and assess its performance; and
	●	discrete financial information is available.
Based on this definition, we believe we operate as a single operating and reporting segment, automotive retailing. We define our chief operating decision maker (“CODM”) to be certain members of our executive management group. Historical and forecasted operational performance is evaluated on a store-by-store basis and consolidated basis by the CODM to assess performance. We have determined that no individual store is significant enough to meet the definition of a segment. Allocation of future resources occurs on a consolidated basis as our cash management is performed centrally and performance of capital investments is evaluated on a consolidated basis.

Note_2_Accounts_Receivable

Note 2 - Accounts Receivable	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2013
Receivables [Abstract]	'
Loans, Notes, Trade and Other Receivables Disclosure [Text Block]	'
	(2)           Accounts Receivable
	Accounts receivable consisted of the following (in thousands):
	December 31,	2013			2012
	Contracts in transit	$	85,272		$	65,597
	Trade receivables		38,600			25,885
	Vehicle receivables		23,606			21,298
	Manufacturer receivables		31,662			25,658
			179,140			138,438
	Less: Allowance		(173	)		(336	)
	Less: Long-term portion of accounts receivable, net		(8,448	)		(4,953	)
	Total accounts receivable, net	$	170,519		$	133,149
	Contracts in transit are receivables from various lenders for the financing of vehicles that we have arranged on behalf of the customer and are typically received within five to ten days of selling a vehicle. Trade receivables are comprised of amounts due from customers, lenders for the commissions earned on financing and third parties for commissions earned on service contracts and insurance products. Vehicle receivables represent receivables for the portion of the vehicle sales price paid directly by the customer. Manufacturer receivables represent amounts due from manufacturers including holdbacks, rebates, incentives and warranty claims.
	The long-term portion of accounts receivable was included as a component of other non-current assets in the Consolidated Balance Sheets.

Note_3_Inventories

Note 3 - Inventories	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2013
Inventory Disclosure [Abstract]	'
Inventory Disclosure [Text Block]	'
	(3)           Inventories
	The components of inventories consisted of the following (in thousands):
	December 31,	2013		2012
	New vehicles	$	657,043	$	563,275
	Used vehicles		167,814		130,529
	Parts and accessories		34,162		29,522
	Total inventories	$	859,019	$	723,326
	The new vehicle inventory cost is generally reduced by manufacturer holdbacks and incentives, while the related floor plan notes payable are reflective of the gross cost of the vehicle. As of December 31, 2013 and 2012, the carrying value of inventory had been reduced by $6.0 million and $4.8 million, respectively, for assistance received from manufacturers as discussed in Note 1.

Note_4_Property_and_Equipment

Note 4 - Property and Equipment	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2013
Property, Plant and Equipment [Abstract]	'
Property, Plant and Equipment Disclosure [Text Block]	'
	(4)           Property and Equipment
	Property and equipment consisted of the following (in thousands):
	December 31,	2013			2012
	Land	$	146,126		$	128,653
	Building and improvements		316,261			279,084
	Service equipment		42,980			39,374
	Furniture, office equipment, signs and fixtures		73,565			70,082
			578,932			517,193
	Less accumulated depreciation		(106,871	)		(97,883	)
			472,061			419,310
	Construction in progress		9,151			5,776
		$	481,212		$	425,086
	Long-Lived Asset Impairment Charges
	In 2012 and 2011, triggering events were determined to have occurred related to certain properties due to changes in the expected future use. As a result of these events, we tested certain long-lived assets for recovery. Based on these tests, we recorded asset impairment charges of $0.1 million and $1.4 million in 2012 and 2011, respectively, in our Consolidated Statements of Operations. We did not record asset impairment charges in 2013.

Note_5_Goodwill_and_Franchise_

Note 5 - Goodwill and Franchise Value	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2013
Goodwill and Intangible Assets Disclosure [Abstract]	'
Goodwill and Intangible Assets Disclosure [Text Block]	'
	(5)           Goodwill and Franchise Value
	The following is a roll-forward of goodwill (in thousands):
		Goodwill
	Balance as of December, 31, 2011, gross	$	318,224
	Accumulated impairment losses		(299,266	)
	Balance as of December 31, 2011, net		18,958
	Additions through acquisitions		13,710
	Goodwill allocation to dispositions		(621	)
	Balance as of December 31, 2012, net		32,047
	Additions through acquisitions		17,464
	Balance as of December 31, 2013, net	$	49,511
	The following is a roll-forward of franchise value (in thousands):
		Franchise Value
	Balance as of December 31, 2011	$	59,095
	Additions through acquisitions		5,174
	Transfers to discontinued operations		(1,840	)
	Balance as of December 31, 2012		62,429
	Additions through acquisitions		8,770
	Balance as of December 31, 2013	$	71,199

Note_6_Credit_Facilities_and_L

Note 6 - Credit Facilities and Long-Term Debt	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2013
Debt Disclosure [Abstract]	'
Debt Disclosure [Text Block]	'
	(6)          Credit Facilities and Long-Term Debt
	Below is a summary of our outstanding balances on credit facilities and long-term debt (in thousands):
	December 31,		2013				2012
	New vehicle floor plan commitment (1) (2)		$	695,066			$	568,130
	Floor plan notes payable (2)			18,789				13,454
	Total floor plan debt			713,855				581,584
	Used vehicle inventory financing facility			85,000				78,309
	Revolving line of credit			-				21,045
	Real estate mortgages			164,827				192,928
	Other debt			2,727				2,776
	Total debt		$	966,409			$	876,642
	-1	As of December 31, 2013 and 2012, we had a new vehicle floor plan commitment of $700 million and $575 million, respectively, as part of our credit facility.
	-2	At December 31, 2013, an additional $4.8 million of floor plan notes payable outstanding on our new vehicle floor plan commitment and $1.5 million of floor plan notes payable on vehicles designated as service loaners are recorded as liabilities related to assets held for sale.
	Credit Facility
	On December 16, 2013, we completed a $1.0 billion, five-year revolving syndicated credit facility. This syndicated credit facility is comprised of 13 financial institutions, including seven manufacturer-affiliated finance companies. Our credit facility provides a new vehicle inventory floor plan commitment, a used vehicle inventory financing facility and a revolving line of credit for general corporate purposes, including acquisitions and working capital. This credit facility may be expanded to $1.25 billion total availability, subject to lender approval.
	We may request a reallocation of up to $250 million of any unused portion of our credit facility as long as no event of default has occurred. A reallocation may be requested monthly and cannot result in a change in either our used vehicle inventory financing facility or the revolving line of credit exceeding the lesser of 20% of the aggregate commitment or $200 million. All borrowings from, and repayments to, our syndicated lending group are presented in the Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows as financing activities.
	The new vehicle floor plan commitment is collateralized by our new vehicle inventory. Our used vehicle inventory financing facility is collateralized by our used vehicle inventory that is less than 180 days old. Our revolving line of credit is secured by our outstanding receivables related to vehicle sales, unencumbered vehicle inventory, other eligible receivables, parts and accessories and equipment.
	We have the ability to deposit up to $50 million in cash in Principal Reduction “PR” accounts associated with our new vehicle inventory floor plan commitment. The PR accounts are recognized as offsetting credits against outstanding amounts on our new vehicle floor plan commitment and would reduce interest expense associated with outstanding amounts. As of December 31, 2013, we had no amounts deposited in our PR accounts.
	If the outstanding principal balance on our new vehicle inventory floor plan commitment, plus requests on any day, exceeds 95% of the loan commitment, a portion of the revolving line of credit must be reserved. The reserve amount is equal to the lesser of $15.0 million or the maximum revolving line of credit commitment less the outstanding balance on the line less outstanding letters of credit. The reserve amount will decrease the revolving line of credit availability and may be used to repay the new vehicle floor plan commitment balance.
	The interest rate on the credit facility varies based on the type of debt and the calculated leverage ratio, with the rate ranging from the one-month LIBOR plus 1.25% to the one-month LIBOR plus 2.5%. The annual interest rate associated with our new vehicle floor plan commitment, excluding the effects of our interest rate swaps, was 1.4% at December 31, 2013. The annual interest rate associated with our used vehicle inventory financing facility and our revolving line of credit was 1.7% and 1.4%, respectively, at December 31, 2013.
	Under the terms of our credit facility we are subject to financial covenants and restrictive covenants that limit or restrict our incurring additional indebtedness, making investments, selling or acquiring assets and granting security interests in our assets.
	Under our credit facility, we are required to maintain the ratios detailed in the following table:
	Debt Covenant Ratio		Requirement		As of December 31, 2013
	Current ratio		Not less than 1.20 to 1			1.41	to	1
	Fixed charge coverage ratio		Not less than 1.20 to 1			3.94	to	1
	Leverage ratio		Not more than 5.00 to 1			1.38	to	1
	Funded debt restriction (millions)		Not to exceed $375				$167.60
	We expect to remain in compliance with the financial and restrictive covenants in our credit facility and other debt agreements. However, no assurances can be provided that we will continue to remain in compliance with the financial and restrictive covenants.
	If we do not meet the financial and restrictive covenants and are unable to remediate or cure the condition or obtain a waiver from our lenders, a breach would give rise to remedies under the agreement, the most severe of which is the termination of the agreement and acceleration of the amounts owed. We also would trigger cross-defaults under other debt agreements.
	Floor Plan Notes Payable
	We have floor plan agreements with manufacturer-affiliated finance companies for vehicles that are designated for use as service loaners. The interest rates on these floor plan notes payable commitments vary by manufacturer and are variable rates. At December 31, 2013, $18.8 million was outstanding on these agreements. Borrowings from, and repayments to, manufacturer-affiliated finance companies are classified as operating activities on the Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows.
	Real Estate Mortgages and Other Debt
	We have mortgages associated with our owned real estate. Interest rates related to this debt ranged from 1.7% to 4.4% at December 31, 2013. The mortgages are payable in various installments through May 2031. As of December 31, 2013, we had fixed interest rates on 79% of our outstanding mortgage debt.
	Our other debt includes capital leases and had interest rates that ranged from 2.0% to 9.4% at December 31, 2013. This debt, which totaled $2.7 million at December 31, 2013, is due in various installments through May 2019.
	Future Principal Payments
	The schedule of future principal payments on long-term debt as of December 31, 2013 was as follows (in thousands):
	Year Ending December 31,
	2014		$	7,083
	2015			7,311
	2016			31,409
	2017			6,174
	2018			109,412
	Thereafter			91,165
	Total principal payments		$	252,554

Note_7_Commitments_and_Conting

Note 7 - Commitments and Contingencies	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2013
Commitments and Contingencies Disclosure [Abstract]	'
Commitments and Contingencies Disclosure [Text Block]	'
	(7)     Commitments and Contingencies
	Leases
	We lease certain facilities under non-cancelable operating and capital leases. These leases expire at various dates through 2066. Certain lease commitments contain fixed payment increases at predetermined intervals over the life of the lease, while other lease commitments are subject to escalation clauses of an amount equal to the increase in the cost of living based on the “Consumer Price Index - U.S. Cities Average - All Items for all Urban Consumers” published by the U.S. Department of Labor, or a substantially equivalent regional index. Lease expense related to operating leases is recognized on a straight-line basis over the life of the lease.
	The minimum lease payments under our operating and capital leases after December 31, 2013 are as follows (in thousands):
	Year Ending December 31,
	2014	$	17,726
	2015		15,655
	2016		14,810
	2017		12,874
	2018		11,076
	Thereafter		67,048
	Total minimum lease payments		139,189
	Less: sublease rentals		(7,025	)
		$	132,164
	Rent expense, net of sublease income, for all operating leases was $14.0 million, $15.2 million and $13.3 million for the years ended December 31, 2013, 2012 and 2011, respectively. These amounts are included as a component of selling, general and administrative expenses in our Consolidated Statements of Operations.
	In connection with dispositions of dealerships, we occasionally assign or sublet our interests in any real property leases associated with such dealerships to the purchaser. We often retain responsibility for the performance of certain obligations under such leases to the extent that the assignee or sublessee does not perform. Additionally, we may remain subject to the terms of any guarantees and have correlating indemnification rights against the assignee or sublessee in the event of non-performance, as well as certain other defenses. We may also be called upon to perform other obligations under these leases, such as environmental remediation of the premises or repairs upon termination of the lease. We currently have no reason to believe that we will be called upon to perform any such services; however, there can be no assurance that any future performance required by us under these leases will not have a material adverse effect on our financial condition or results of operations.
	Certain of our facilities where a lease obligation still exists have been vacated for business reasons. In these instances, we make efforts to find qualified tenants to sublease the facilities and assume financial responsibility. However, due to the specific nature and size of our dealership facilities, tenants are not always available or the amount tenants are willing to pay does not recover the full lease obligation. When an exposure exists related to vacating certain leases, liabilities are accrued to reflect our estimate of future lease obligations, net of estimated sublease income.
	Capital Expenditures
	Capital expenditures were $50.0 million, $64.6 million and $31.7 million for 2013, 2012 and 2011, respectively. Capital expenditures in 2013 were associated with image improvements, purchases of store facilities, purchases of previously leased facilities and replacement of equipment. The increase in capital expenditures in 2012 compared to 2011 was related to improvements at certain of our store facilities, the purchase of previously leased facilities, the purchase of new store locations, replacement of equipment and construction of, and relocation to, a new headquarters building.
	Many manufacturers provide assistance in the form of additional vehicle incentives if facilities meet image standards and requirements. We believe it is an attractive time to invest in facility upgrades and remodels that will generate additional manufacturer incentive payments. Also, tax laws allowing accelerated deductions for capital expenditures reduce the overall investment needed and encourage accelerated project timelines.
	If we undertake a significant capital commitment in the future, we expect to pay for the commitment out of existing cash balances, construction financing and borrowings on our credit facility. Upon completion of the projects, we believe we would have the ability to secure long-term financing and general borrowings from third party lenders for 70% to 90% of the amounts expended, although no assurances can be provided that these financings will be available to us in sufficient amounts or on terms acceptable to us.
	Charge-Backs for Various Contracts
	We have recorded a liability of $18.2 million as of December 31, 2013 for our estimated contractual obligations related to potential charge-backs for vehicle service contracts, lifetime oil change contracts and other various insurance contracts that are terminated early by the customer. We estimate that the charge-backs will be paid out as follows (in thousands):
	Year Ending December 31,
	2014	$	10,223
	2015		5,218
	2016		2,034
	2017		554
	2018		131
	Thereafter		22
	Total	$	18,182
	Lifetime Lube, Oil and Filter Contracts
	We retain the obligation for lifetime lube, oil and filter service contracts sold to our customers and assumed the liability of certain existing lifetime lube, oil and filter contracts. These amounts are recorded as deferred revenues. At the time of sale, we defer the full sale price and recognize the revenue based on the rate we expect future costs to be incurred. As of December 31, 2013, we had a deferred revenue balance of $50.1 million associated with these contracts and estimate the deferred revenue will be recognized as follows (in thousands):
	Year Ending December 31,
	2014	$	10,888
	2015		8,527
	2016		6,760
	2017		5,411
	2018		4,315
	Thereafter		14,157
	Total	$	50,058
	We periodically evaluate the estimated future costs of these assumed contracts and record a charge if future expected claim and cancellation costs exceed the deferred revenue to be recognized. As of December 31, 2013, we had a reserve balance of $3.4 million recorded as a component of accrued liabilities and other long-term liabilities on our Consolidated Balance Sheets. The charges associated with this reserve had been recognized in 2011 and earlier.
	Self-insurance Programs
	We self-insure a portion of our property and casualty insurance, medical insurance and workers’ compensation insurance. Third-parties are engaged to assist in estimating the loss exposure related to the self-retained portion of the risk associated with these insurances. Additionally, we analyze our historical loss and claims experience to estimate the loss exposure associated with these programs. As of December 31, 2013 and 2012, we had liabilities associated with these programs of $12.0 million and $12.4 million, respectively, recorded as a component of accrued liabilities and other long-term liabilities on our Consolidated Balance Sheets.
	Litigation
	We are party to numerous legal proceedings arising in the normal course of our business. Although we do not anticipate that the resolution of legal proceedings arising in the normal course of business or the proceedings described below will have a material adverse effect on our business, results of operations, financial condition, or cash flows, we cannot predict this with certainty.
	Alaska Consumer Protection Act Claims
	In December 2006, a class action suit was filed against us (Jackie Neese, et al vs. Lithia Chrysler Jeep of Anchorage, Inc., et al, Case No. 3AN-06-13341 CI), and in April 2007, a second class action suit (Jackie Neese, et al vs. Lithia Chrysler Jeep of Anchorage, Inc, et al, Case No. 3AN-06-4815 CI) was filed against us, in the Superior Court for the State of Alaska, Third Judicial District at Anchorage. These suits were subsequently consolidated. In the consolidated suit, plaintiffs alleged that we, through our Alaska dealerships, engaged in three practices that purportedly violate Alaska consumer protection laws: (i) charging customers dealer fees and costs (including document preparation fees) not disclosed in the advertised price, (ii) failing to disclose the acquisition, mechanical and accident history of used vehicles or whether the vehicles were originally manufactured for sale in a foreign country, and (iii) engaging in deception, misrepresentation and fraud by providing to customers financing from third parties without disclosing that we receive a fee or discount for placing that loan. The suit sought statutory damages of $500 for each violation or three times plaintiff’s actual damages, whichever was greater, and attorney fees and costs.
	In June 2013, the parties agreed to mediate the claims. The mediation resulted in a settlement agreement that received the final approval of the Court on December 11, 2013. Under the settlement agreement, we agreed to reimburse plaintiffs’ legal fees and to pay (i) $450 in the form of cash and vouchers and (ii) $3,000 for each claim representative. As of December 31, 2013, we estimated costs of $6.2 million to settle all claims against us and to pay plaintiffs’ legal fees. The estimated costs are based on our assumptions of the final number of approved claims and a voucher redemption rate. We believe that these estimates are reasonable; however, actual cost could differ materially. We recorded this amount as a component of selling, general and administrative expense in our Consolidated Statements of Operations and, as of December 31, 2013, the amount was included as a component of accrued liabilities in our Consolidated Balance Sheets.

Note_8_Stockholders_Equity

Note 8 - Stockholders' Equity	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2013
Stockholders' Equity Note [Abstract]	'
Stockholders' Equity Note Disclosure [Text Block]	'
	(8)           Stockholders’ Equity
	Class A and Class B Common Stock
	The shares of Class A common stock are not convertible into any other series or class of our securities. Each share of Class B common stock, however, is freely convertible into one share of Class A common stock at the option of the holder of the Class B common stock. All shares of Class B common stock shall automatically convert to shares of Class A common stock (on a share-for-share basis, subject to adjustment) on the earliest record date for an annual meeting of our stockholders on which the number of shares of Class B common stock outstanding is less than 1% of the total number of shares of common stock outstanding. Shares of Class B common stock may not be transferred to third parties, except for transfers to certain family members and in other limited circumstances.
	Holders of Class A common stock are entitled to one vote for each share held of record and holders of Class B common stock are entitled to ten votes for each share held of record. The Class A common stock and Class B common stock vote together as a single class on all matters submitted to shareholders.
	Repurchases of Class A Common Stock
	In June 2000, our Board of Directors authorized the repurchase of up to 1,000,000 shares of our Class A common stock. As of December 31, 2011, we had purchased all available shares under this program, of which 419,376 shares were repurchased in 2011.
	In August 2011, our Board of Directors authorized the repurchase of up to 2,000,000 shares of our Class A common stock and, on July 20, 2012, our Board of Directors authorized the repurchase of 1,000,000 additional shares of our Class A common stock. Through December 31, 2013, we had purchased 1,273,047 shares under these programs at an average price of $24.18 per share. As of December 31, 2013, 1,726,953 shares remained available for purchase pursuant to these programs. These plans do not have an expiration date and we may continue to repurchase shares from time to time as conditions warrant.
	The following is a summary of our repurchases in the years ended December 31, 2013, 2012 and 2011.
			Year Ended December 31,
			2013			2012			2011
	Shares repurchased (1)			127,900			848,092			716,431
	Total purchase price (in thousands)		$	5,213		$	20,698		$	12,389
	Average purchase price per share		$	40.76		$	24.41		$	17.29
	-1	Includes only shares repurchased under repurchase plans. An additional 59,721, 80,687 and 56,012 shares were repurchased in association with tax withholdings on the exercise of stock options in 2013, 2012 and 2011, respectively.
	Dividends
	For the period January 1, 2011 through December 31, 2013, we declared and paid dividends on our Class A and Class B Common Stock as follows:
	Quarter declared		Dividend amount per Class A and Class B share			Total amount of dividend
						(in thousands)
	2011
	First quarter		$	0.05		$	1,316
	Second quarter			0.07			1,851
	Third quarter			0.07			1,838
	Fourth quarter			0.07			1,817
	2012
	First quarter		$	0.07		$	1,815
	Second quarter			0.1			2,583
	Third quarter			0.1			2,545
	Fourth quarter(1)			0.2			5,123
	2013
	First quarter		$	-		$	-
	Second quarter			0.13			3,356
	Third quarter			0.13			3,363
	Fourth quarter			0.13			3,366
	-1	In November 2012, we paid dividends of $2.5 million that had been declared in October 2012. An additional dividend payment of $2.6 million was declared and paid in December 2012 in lieu of the dividend typically declared and paid in March of the following year.
	Reclassification From Accumulated Other Comprehensive Loss
	The reclassification from accumulated other comprehensive loss was as follows (in thousands):
			Year Ended December 31,									Affected Line Item
												in the Consolidated
			2013			2012			2011			Statement of Operations
	Loss on cash flow hedges		$	(740	)	$	(1,413	)	$	(1,899	)	Floor plan interest expense
	Income tax benefits			283			541			727		Income tax provision
	Loss on cash flow hedges, net		$	(457	)	$	(872	)	$	(1,172	)
	See Note 11 for more details regarding our derivative contracts.

Note_9_401k_Profit_Sharing_Def

Note 9 - 401(k) Profit Sharing, Deferred Compensation and Long-term Incentive Plans	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2013
Compensation and Retirement Disclosure [Abstract]	'
Pension and Other Postretirement Benefits Disclosure [Text Block]	'
	(9)          401(k) Profit Sharing, Deferred Compensation and Long-term Incentive Plans
	We have a defined contribution 401(k) plan and trust covering substantially all full-time employees. The annual contribution to the plan is at the discretion of our Board of Directors. Contributions of $2.1 million, $1.9 million and $1.7 million were recognized for the years ended December 31, 2013, 2012 and 2011, respectively. Employees may contribute to the plan if they meet certain eligibility requirements.
	We offer a deferred compensation and long-term incentive plan (the “LTIP”) to provide certain employees the ability to accumulate assets for retirement on a tax deferred basis. We may make discretionary contributions to the LTIP. Discretionary contributions vest between one and seven years based on the employee’s age and position. Additionally, a participant may defer a portion of his or her compensation and receive the deferred amount upon certain events, including termination or retirement.
	The following is a summary related to our LTIP:
		Year Ended December 31,
		2013			2012			2011
	Compensation expense (millions)	$	1.4		$	1.2		$	0.9
	Total discretionary contribution (millions)	$	2.1		$	1.9		$	1.3
	Guaranteed annual return		5.25	%		5.9	%		6	%
	As of December 31, 2013, the balance due to participants was $7.1 million and was included as a component of other long-term liabilities in the Consolidated Balance Sheets.

Note_10_Stock_Based_Compensati

Note 10 - Stock Based Compensation	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2013
Disclosure of Compensation Related Costs, Share-based Payments [Abstract]	'
Disclosure of Compensation Related Costs, Share-based Payments [Text Block]	'
	(10)         Stock Based Compensation
	2009 Employee Stock Purchase Plan
	The 2009 Employee Stock Purchase Plan (the “2009 ESPP”) allows for the issuance of 1,500,000 shares of our Class A common stock. The 2009 ESPP is intended to qualify as an “Employee Stock Purchase Plan” under Section 423 of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended, and is administered by the Compensation Committee of the Board of Directors.
	Eligible employees are entitled to defer up to 10% of their base pay for the purchase of stock, up to $25,000 of fair market value of our Class A common stock annually. The purchase price is equal to 85% of the fair market value at the end of the purchase period. During 2013, a total of 77,005 shares were purchased under the 2009 ESPP at a weighted average price of $49.94 per share, which represented a weighted average discount from the fair market value of $8.81 per share. As of December 31, 2013, 604,288 shares remained available for purchase under the 2009 ESPP.
	Compensation expense related to our 2009 ESPP is calculated based on the 15% discount from the per share market price on the date of grant.
	2013 Stock Incentive Plan
	Our 2013 Stock Incentive Plan, as amended, (the “2013 Plan”) allows for the granting of up to a total of 3.8 million nonqualified stock options and shares of restricted stock to our officers, key employees, directors and consultants. Our plan is administered by the Compensation Committee of the Board of Directors and permits accelerated vesting of outstanding awards upon the occurrence of certain changes in control. As of December 31, 2013, 1,573,080 shares of Class A common stock were available for future grants.
	Restricted Stock Units (“RSUs”)
	Restricted stock grants vest over a period up to six years from the date of grant. Restricted stock activity under our stock incentive plans was as follows:
			Non-vested				Weighted average
			stock grants				grant date fair value
	Balance, December 31, 2012			651,943			$	13.35
	Granted			239,324				43.13
	Vested			(185,462	)			7.97
	Forfeited			(28,447	)			19.12
	Balance, December 31, 2013			677,358			$	25.1
	In 2013, we granted 77,736 time-vesting RSUs to members of our Board of Directors and employees. Each grant entitles the holder to receive shares of our Class A common stock upon vesting. A quarter of the RSUs vest on each of the four anniversaries of the grant date.
	Certain key employees were granted 52,820 performance and time-vesting RSUs in 2013. The RSUs entitled the holder to receive shares based on attaining a target level of adjusted net income per share for 2013. The RSUs are subject to forfeiture, in whole or in part, based on 2013 minimum performance measures and continuation of employment. RSUs that are not forfeited vest over four years from the grant date. The table below summarizes the percentage of granted RSUs earned based on the attainment thresholds:
			Adjusted earnings
			per share
			attainment level			% of earned RSUs
	Less than minimum		$0.00	or negative			0	%
	Minimum		$0.01				30
	Median		$3.21				60
	Maximum		$3.53				100
	The final attainment was calculated as 100% based on the 2013 adjusted net income per share of $4.02. We estimate a total compensation expense of $2.2 million associated with these performance and time-vesting RSUs, of which $0.5 million was recognized in 2013.
	Eight senior executives were also granted 108,768 long-term RSUs which vest based on attaining a target level of adjusted net income per share in any fiscal year ending on December 31, 2013 through December 31, 2018, which meets or exceeds specified attainment thresholds. The table below summarizes the percentage of granted RSUs earned based on the attainment thresholds:
	Adjusted fiscal earnings				% of earned RSUs
	per share
	attainment level
		$4.00				33%
		$5.00				33
		$6.00				34
	If more than one adjusted net income per share attainment threshold is met or exceeded that was not met or exceeded previously, the corresponding vesting percentages for each adjusted net income per share attainment threshold met or exceeded may be added together. Once the adjusted net income per share meets or exceeds any particular threshold and RSUs are vested accordingly, no additional RSUs may vest in connection with adjusted net income per share meeting or exceeding that particular threshold again. Any of these RSUs that do not vest within the six year period would be forfeited.
	We estimate a total compensation expense of $4.7 million associated with these long-term RSUs. In 2013, the attainment level of $4.00 per share was achieved based on the 2013 adjusted net income per share of $4.02 and expense associated with the vesting of 33% of the award was recognized in the twelve month period ended December 31, 2013. We recognized $2.4 million in compensation expense associated with this grant in 2013.
	Stock Options
	Options become exercisable over a period of up to five years from the date of grant with expiration dates up to ten years from the date of grant and at exercise prices of not less than market value, as determined by the Board of Directors. Beginning in 2004, the expiration date of options granted was reduced to six years.
	Option activity under our stock incentive plans was as follows:
			Shares subject				Weighted average		Aggregate intrinsic value (millions)		Weighted average
			to options				exercise price				remaining contractual term
											(years)
	Balance, December 31, 2012			253,499			$	6.26
	Granted			-				-
	Forfeited			-				-
	Expired			-				-
	Exercised			(194,615	)			6.17
	Balance, December 31, 2013			58,884			$	6.53	$	3.7		0.7
	Exercisable, December 31, 2013			58,884			$	6.53	$	3.7		0.7
	We estimate the fair value of stock options using the Black-Scholes valuation model. This valuation model takes into account the exercise price of the award, as well as a variety of significant assumptions. We believe that the valuation technique and the approach utilized to develop the underlying assumptions are appropriate in calculating the fair values of our stock options. Estimates of fair value are not intended to predict actual future events or the value ultimately realized by persons who receive equity awards.
	Stock-Based Compensation
	Compensation expense related to non-vested stock is based on the intrinsic value on the date of grant as if the stock is vested. We amortize stock-based compensation on a straight-line basis over the vesting period of the individual award with estimated forfeitures considered. Shares to be issued upon the exercise of stock options will come from newly issued shares.
	As of December 31, 2013, unrecognized stock-based compensation related to outstanding, but unvested stock options and RSUs was $9.2 million, which will be recognized over the remaining weighted average vesting period of 1.9 years.
	Certain information regarding our stock-based compensation was as follows:
	Year Ended December 31,		2013				2012		2011
	Weighted average grant-date fair value per share of stock options granted		$	-			$	-	$	-
	Per share intrinsic value of non-vested stock granted			43.13				23.82		13.58
	Weighted average per share discount for compensation expense recognized under the 2009 ESPP			8.81				4.29		2.56
	Total intrinsic value of stock options exercised (millions)			8.7				7.2		1.5
	Fair value of non-vested stock that vested during the period (millions)			8.4				3.5		0.7
	Stock-based compensation recognized in results of operations, as a component of selling, general and administrative expense - excludes compensation expense related to an option granted to one of our executives. See Note 16. (millions)			6.6				3.1		2.3
	Tax benefit recognized in Consolidated Statements of Operations (millions)			2.3				1		0.7
	Cash received from options exercised and shares purchased under all share-based arrangements (millions)			5.2				8.8		5.8
	Tax deduction realized related to stock options exercised (millions)			6.5				4.1		0.9

Note_11_Derivative_Financial_I

Note 11 - Derivative Financial Instruments

12 Months Ended

Dec. 31, 2013

Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities Disclosure [Abstract]

'

Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities Disclosure [Text Block]

'

(11)        Derivative Financial Instruments

From time to time, we enter into interest rate swaps to fix a portion of our interest expense. We do not enter into derivative instruments for any purpose other than to manage interest rate exposure to fluctuations in the one-month LIBOR benchmark. That is, we do not engage in interest rate speculation using derivative instruments.

As of December 31, 2013, we had a $25 million interest rate swap outstanding with U.S. Bank Dealer Commercial Services. This interest rate swap matures on June 15, 2016 and has a fixed rate of 5.587% per annum. The variable rate on the interest rate swap is the one-month LIBOR rate. At December 31, 2013, the one-month LIBOR rate was 0.17% per annum, as reported in the Wall Street Journal.

Typically, we designate all interest rate swaps as cash flow hedges and, accordingly, we record the change in fair value for the effective portion of these interest rate swaps in comprehensive income rather than net income until the underlying hedged transaction affects net income. If a swap is no longer designated as a cash flow hedge and the forecasted transaction remains probable or reasonably possible of occurring, the gain or loss recorded in accumulated other comprehensive loss is recognized in income as the forecasted transaction occurs. If the forecasted transaction is probable of not occurring, the gain or loss recorded in accumulated other comprehensive loss is recognized in income immediately. See Note 12.

The estimated amount that we expect to reclassify from accumulated other comprehensive loss to net income within the next twelve months is $1.2 million at December 31, 2013.

At December 31, 2013 and 2012, the fair value of our derivative instruments was included in our Consolidated Balance Sheets as follows (in thousands):

Balance Sheet Information (in thousands)

Fair Value of Liability Derivatives

Location in Balance Sheet

31-Dec-13

Derivatives designated as hedging instruments

Interest rate swap contract

Accrued liabilities

$

1,215

Other long-term liabilities

1,685

$

2,900

Balance Sheet Information (in thousands)

Fair Value of Liability Derivatives

Location in Balance Sheet

31-Dec-12

Derivatives designated as hedging instruments

Interest rate swap contract

Accrued liabilities

$

1,839

Other long-term liabilities

2,840

$

4,679

The effect of derivative instruments on our Consolidated Statements of Operations for the years ended December 31, 2013, 2012 and 2011 was as follows (in thousands):

Derivatives in Cash Flow Hedging Relationships

Amount of gain (loss) recognized in Accumulated OCI (effective portion)

Location of loss reclassified from accumulated OCI into Income (effective portion)

Amount of loss reclassified from Accumulated OCI into Income (effective portion)

Location of loss recognized in Income on derivative (ineffective portion and amount excluded from effectiveness testing)

Amount of loss recognized in Income on derivative (ineffective portion and amount excluded from effectiveness testing)

For the Year Ended

Floor plan

Floor plan

31-Dec-13

Interest rate swap contract

$

1,005

Interest expense

$

(740

)

Interest expense

$

(1,235

)

For the Year Ended

Floor plan

Floor plan

31-Dec-12

Interest rate swap contracts

$

1,655

Interest expense

$

(1,413

)

Interest expense

$

(2,900

)

For the Year Ended

Floor plan

Floor plan

31-Dec-11

Interest rate swap contracts

$

(1,343

)

Interest expense

$

(1,899

)

Interest expense

$

(1,587

)

Note_12_Fair_Value_Measurement

Note 12 - Fair Value Measurements	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2013
Fair Value Disclosures [Abstract]	'
Fair Value Disclosures [Text Block]	'
	(12)        Fair Value Measurements
	Factors used in determining the fair value of our financial assets and liabilities are summarized into three broad categories:
		●	Level 1 – quoted prices in active markets for identical securities;
		●	Level 2 – other significant observable inputs, including quoted prices for similar securities, interest rates, prepayment spreads, credit risk; and
		●	Level 3 – significant unobservable inputs, including our own assumptions in determining fair value.
	The inputs or methodology used for valuing financial assets and liabilities are not necessarily an indication of the risk associated with investing in them.
	We use the income approach to determine the fair value of our interest rate swap using observable Level 2 market expectations at each measurement date and an income approach to convert estimated future cash flows to a single present value amount (discounted) assuming that participants are motivated, but not compelled, to transact. Level 2 inputs for the swap valuation are limited to quoted prices for similar assets or liabilities in active markets (specifically futures contracts on LIBOR for the first two years) and inputs other than quoted prices that are observable for the asset or liability (specifically LIBOR cash and swap rates and credit risk at commonly quoted intervals). Mid-market pricing is used as a practical expedient for fair value measurements. Key inputs, including the cash rates for very short term borrowings, futures rates for up to two years and LIBOR swap rates beyond the derivative maturity, are used to predict future reset rates to discount those future cash flows to present value at the measurement date.
	Inputs are collected from Bloomberg on the last market day of the period. The same methodology is used to determine the rate used to discount the future cash flows. The valuation of the interest rate swap also takes into consideration our own, as well as the counterparty’s, risk of non-performance under the contract.
	There were no changes to our valuation techniques during the year ended December 31, 2013.
	Assets and Liabilities Measured at Fair Value
	Following are the disclosures related to our assets and (liabilities) that are measured at fair value (in thousands):
	Fair Value at December 31, 2013		Level 1		Level 2			Level 3
	Measured on a recurring basis:
	Derivative contract, net		$	-	$	(2,900	)	$	-
	Fair Value at December 31, 2012		Level 1		Level 2			Level 3
	Measured on a recurring basis:
	Derivative contract, net		$	-	$	(4,679	)	$	-
	See Note 11 for more details regarding our derivative contracts.
	Fair Value Disclosures for Financial Assets and Liabilities
	We have fixed rate debt and calculate the estimated fair value of our fixed rate debt using a discounted cash flow methodology. Using estimated current interest rates based on a similar risk profile and duration (Level 2), the fixed cash flows are discounted and summed to compute the fair value of the debt. As of December 31, 2013, this debt had maturity dates between November 2016 and May 2031. A summary of the aggregate carrying values and fair values of our long-term fixed interest rate debt is as follows (in thousands):
			December 31,		December 31,
			2013		2012
	Carrying value		$	132,616	$	130,469
	Fair value			126,786		134,688
	We believe the carrying value of our variable rate debt approximates fair value.

Note_13_Income_Taxes

Note 13 - Income Taxes	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2013
Income Tax Disclosure [Abstract]	'
Income Tax Disclosure [Text Block]	'
	(13)     Income Taxes
	Income tax provision (benefit) from continuing operations was as follows (in thousands):
	Year Ended December 31,	2013			2012			2011
	Current:
	Federal	$	46,727		$	31,438		$	21,779
	State		5,539			3,626			3,561
			52,266			35,064			25,340
	Deferred:
	Federal		9,010			10,888			7,046
	State		(702	)		3,110			674
			8,308			13,998			7,720
	Total	$	60,574		$	49,062		$	33,060
	At December 31, 2013 and 2012, we had income taxes receivable of $3.4 million and $7.3 million, respectively, included as a component of other current assets on the Consolidated Balance Sheets.
	Individually significant components of the deferred tax assets and liabilities are presented below (in thousands):
	December 31,	2013			2012
	Deferred tax assets:
	Deferred revenue and cancellation reserves	$	8,857		$	7,597
	Allowances and accruals, including state tax carryforward amounts		31,060			21,340
	Interest on derivatives		1,113			1,796
	Credits and other		1,937			-
	Goodwill		10,331			18,139
	Capital loss carryforward		10,893			12,248
	Valuation allowance		(11,087	)		(11,641	)
	Total deferred tax assets		53,104			49,479
	Deferred tax liabilities:
	Inventories		(6,722	)		(4,684	)
	Property and equipment, principally due to differences in depreciation		(32,563	)		(22,484	)
	Prepaid expenses and other		(2,015	)		(1,356	)
	Total deferred tax liabilities		(41,300	)		(28,524	)
	Total	$	11,804		$	20,955
	We consider whether it is more likely than not that some portion or all of the deferred tax assets will not be realized. The ultimate realization of deferred tax assets is dependent upon future taxable income during the periods in which those temporary differences become deductible. We consider the scheduled reversal of deferred tax liabilities (including the impact of available carryback and carryforward periods), projected future taxable income and tax-planning strategies in making this assessment.
	As of December 31, 2013, we had a $11.1 million valuation allowance recorded associated with our deferred tax assets. The majority of this allowance is associated with capital losses from the sale of corporate entities in prior years. The valuation allowance decreased $0.6 million in the current year.
	During 2013, release of the valuation allowance related to the utilization of our capital loss carryforward resulted in a tax benefit of $1.5 million. As of the end of 2013, we evaluated the availability of projected capital gains and determined that it continues to be unlikely the remaining capital loss carryforward would be fully utilized. We will continue to evaluate if it is more likely than not that we will realize the benefits of these deductible differences. However, additional valuation allowance amounts could be recorded in the future if estimates of taxable income during the carryforward period are reduced.
	At December 31, 2013, we had a number of state tax carryforward amounts totaling approximately $0.9 million, tax affected, with expiration dates through 2033. We believe that it is more likely than not that the benefit from certain state NOL carryforwards will not be realized. In recognition of this risk, we have provided a valuation allowance of $0.9 million on the deferred tax assets relating to these state NOL carryforwards.
	The reconciliation between amounts computed using the federal income tax rate of 35% and our income tax provision from continuing operations for 2013, 2012 and 2011 is shown in the following tabulation (in thousands):
	Year Ended December 31,	2013			2012			2011
	Federal tax provision at statutory rate	$	58,026		$	44,723		$	30,895
	State taxes, net of federal income tax benefit		3,141			4,772			3,021
	Non-deductible expenses		1,010			618			208
	Permanent differences related to the employee stock purchase program		55			52			105
	Net change in valuation allowance		(554	)		(1,200	)		(346	)
	General business credits		(440	)		-			-
	Other		(664	)		97			(823	)
	Income tax provision	$	60,574		$	49,062		$	33,060
	We did not have any activity during 2013 or 2012 related to unrecognized tax benefits and did not have any amounts of unrecognized tax benefits as of December 31, 2013 or 2012. No interest or penalties were included in our results of operations during 2013, 2012 or 2011, and we had no accrued interest or penalties at December 31, 2013 or 2012.
	Open tax years at December 31, 2013 included the following:
	Federal	2010	-	2013
	12 states	2009	-	2013

Note_14_Acquisitions

Note 14 - Acquisitions	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2013
Business Combinations [Abstract]	'
Business Combination Disclosure [Text Block]	'
	(14)        Acquisitions
	In 2013, we completed the following acquisitions, which contributed revenues of $64.7 million for the year ended December 31, 2013:
		●	On June 10, 2013, we acquired OB Salem Auto Group, Inc. in Salem, Oregon, including BMW, Honda and Volkswagen franchises.
		●	On October 7, 2013, we acquired Stockton Nissan Kia in Stockton, California.
		●	On October 24, 2013, we acquired Fresno Lincoln Volvo in Fresno, California.
		●	On November 1, 2013, we acquired Howard’s Body Shop in Klamath Falls, Oregon.
		●	On November 4, 2013, we acquired Geweke Motors, Inc. a Toyota Scion store in Lodi, California.
		●	On December 2, 2013, we acquired Diablo Subaru in Walnut Creek, California.
	We completed the following acquisitions in 2012:
		●	On April 30, 2012, we acquired Bellingham Chevrolet and Cadillac in Bellingham, Washington.
		●	On June 12, 2012, we acquired Fairbanks GMC Buick in Fairbanks, Alaska.
		●	On August 27, 2012, we acquired Killeen Chevrolet in Killeen, Texas.
		●	On October 23, 2012, we acquired Bitterroot Toyota in Missoula, Montana.
	We completed the following acquisitions in 2011:
		●	On April 18, 2011, we acquired Mercedes-Benz of Portland, Oregon, Mercedes Benz of Wilsonville, Oregon and Rasmussen BMW/MINI in Portland, Oregon.
		●	On October 7, 2011, we acquired Fresno Subaru in Fresno, California.
	All acquisitions were accounted for as business combinations under the acquisition method of accounting. The results of operations of the acquired stores are included in our Consolidated Financial Statements from the date of acquisition
	No portion of the purchase price was paid with our equity securities. The following table summarizes the consideration paid for material acquisitions and the amount of identified assets acquired and liabilities assumed as of the acquisition date (in thousands):
	Consideration paid for year ended December 31,		2013			2012
	Cash paid, net of cash acquired		$	81,105		$	44,716
	Assets acquired and liabilities assumed for year ended December 31,		2013			2012
	Inventories		$	30,624		$	17,541
	Franchise value			8,770			5,174
	Property, plant and equipment			24,741			11,097
	Real estate lease reserves			(221	)		-
	Other assets			264			110
	Reserves			(344	)		-
	Capital lease obligations			(37	)		(2,609	)
	Other liabilities			(156	)		(307	)
				63,641			31,006
	Goodwill			17,464			13,710
			$	81,105		$	44,716
	We account for franchise value as an indefinite-lived intangible asset. We expect the full amount of the goodwill recognized to be deductible for tax purposes. We did not have any material acquisition-related expenses in 2013, 2012 or 2011.
	The following unaudited pro forma summary presents consolidated information as if the 2013 and 2012 acquisitions had occurred on January 1 of the prior year (in thousands, except for per share amounts):
	Year Ended December 31,		2013			2012			2011
	Revenue		$	4,144,945		$	3,571,853		$	2,789,436
	Income from continuing operations, net of tax			105,783			81,531			56,904
	Basic income per share from continuing operations, net of tax			4.1			3.17			2.17
	Diluted income per share from continuing operations, net of tax			4.04			3.12			2.13
	These amounts have been calculated by applying our accounting policies and estimates. The results of the acquired stores have been adjusted to reflect the following: depreciation on a straight-line basis over the expected lives for property, plant and equipment; accounting for inventory on a specific identification method; and recognition of interest expense for real estate financing related to stores where we purchased the facility. No nonrecurring pro forma adjustments directly attributable to the acquisitions are included in the reported pro forma revenues and earnings.
	In July 2011, we were awarded a Ford franchise in Klamath Falls, Oregon which was accounted for as an asset acquisition. Consideration of $5.1 million was paid for the inventory, equipment and associated real estate.

Note_15_Discontinued_Operation

Note 15 - Discontinued Operations	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2013
Discontinued Operations and Disposal Groups [Abstract]	'
Disposal Groups, Including Discontinued Operations, Disclosure [Text Block]	'
	(15)         Discontinued Operations
	We classify a store as discontinued operations if the location has been sold, we have ceased operations at that location or the store meets the criteria required by U.S. generally accepted accounting standards:
		●	our management team, possessing the necessary authority, commits to a plan to sell the store;
		●	the store is available for immediate sale in its present condition;
		●	an active program to locate buyers and other actions that are required to sell the store are initiated;
		●	a market for the store exists and we believe its sale is likely to be completed within one year;
		●	active marketing of the store commences at a price that is reasonable in relation to the estimated fair market value; and
		●	our management team believes it is unlikely that changes will be made to the plan or the plan to dispose of the store will be withdrawn.
	We reclassify the store’s operations to discontinued operations in our Consolidated Statements of Operations, on a comparable basis for all periods presented, provided we do not expect to have any significant continuing involvement in the store’s operations after its disposal.
	In 2011, we sold three stores: a Chrysler Jeep Dodge store in Concord, California; a Volkswagen store in Thornton, Colorado and a GMC Buick and a Kia store in Cedar Rapids, Iowa. The associated results of operations for these locations are classified as discontinued operations. As of December 31, 2011, we had no stores and no properties classified as held for sale.
	In October 2012, we sold two stores: a Chrysler Jeep Dodge store and a Hyundai store, both located in Renton, Washington. The associated results of operations for these locations are classified as discontinued operations.
	Additionally, in October 2012, we determined that one of our stores met the criteria for classification of the assets and related liabilities as held for sale. As of December 31, 2013, the store has been classified as held for sale for more than one year.
	As this store has been classified as held for sale beyond one year, we continually evaluated whether (i) we had taken all necessary actions to respond to the change in circumstances; (ii) we were actively marketing the store at a price that was reasonable; and (iii) we continued to meet all of the criteria discussed above to continue to classify the stores as held for sale.
	Since the end of 2012, we have actively marketed this store for sale and continue to identify interested parties. Throughout the past year, we have had both signed letters of intent and contracts for the sale of the property. However, these sales have not been consummated for various reasons including the potential buyers being unable to obtain manufacturer approval. We believe the classification continues to be appropriate as all criteria to classify the store as held for sale are still met as of December 31, 2013. The store’s assets and related liabilities are classified as held for sale and its associated operating results are classified as discontinued operations as of December 31, 2013.
	As of December 31, 2013, we have one store and no properties classified as held for sale. Assets held for sale included the following (in thousands):
	December 31,		2013
	Inventories		$	8,260
	Property, plant and equipment			1,194
	Intangible assets			2,072
			$	11,526
	Liabilities related to assets held for sale included the following (in thousands):
	December 31,		2013
	Floor plan notes payable		$	6,271
	Actual floor plan interest expense for the store classified as discontinued operations is directly related to the store’s new vehicles. Interest expense related to our used vehicle inventory financing and revolving line of credit is allocated based on the working capital level of the store. Interest expense included as a component of discontinued operations was as follows (in thousands):
	Year Ended December 31,		2013			2012			2011
	Floor plan interest		$	117		$	217		$	520
	Other interest			21			69			108
	Total interest		$	138		$	286		$	628
	Certain financial information related to discontinued operations was as follows (in thousands):
	Year Ended December 31,		2013			2012			2011
	Revenue		$	38,978		$	82,150		$	131,380
	Pre-tax gain from discontinued operations		$	1,310		$	2,186		$	1,516
	Net gain (loss) on disposal activities			-			(621	)		4,396
				1,310			1,565			5,912
	Income tax expense			(524	)		(598	)		(2,262	)
	Income from discontinued operations, net of income tax expense		$	786		$	967		$	3,650
	Goodwill and other intangible assets disposed of		$	-		$	169		$	712
	The net gain (loss) on disposal activities included the following charges (in thousands):
	Year Ended December 31,		2013			2012			2011
	Goodwill and other intangible assets		$	-		$	(169	)	$	3,168
	Property, plant and equipment			-			(299	)		1,357
	Inventory			-			(82	)		(88	)
	Other			-			(71	)		(41	)
			$	-		$	(621	)	$	4,396

Note_16_Related_Party_Transact

Note 16 - Related Party Transactions	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2013
Related Party Transactions [Abstract]	'
Related Party Transactions Disclosure [Text Block]	'
	(16)        Related Party Transactions
	Sale of Nissan, Volkswagen and BMW Stores
	On March 27, 2012, we completed the sale of an 80% interest in our Nissan, Volkswagen and BMW stores in Medford, Oregon to Dick Heimann, a director and our Vice Chairman. We received proceeds of $9.6 million, of which $2.9 million was received in cash and $6.7 million was received through the payoff of floor plan financing. The sale of the 80% interest in the stores resulted in a gain of $0.7 million and was recorded as a component of selling, general and administrative expense on our Consolidated Statements of Operations.
	The Nissan and Volkswagen stores were purchased for the book value of the inventory as defined by the original terms of an option agreement provided to Mr. Heimann in 2009. The price of the intangible assets of $1.2 million was based on the fair value of the intangible assets related to the BMW store. We corroborated the fair value of the BMW store’s intangible assets with independent third party broker opinions and financial projections using a fair value income approach.
	When we sold the three stores, we entered into a shared service agreement with the stores. This agreement allows the stores to lease our employees, use the Lithia name, utilize accounting support functions and receive consulting services. The services provided and the costs of the services are structured the same as the shared services provide to our wholly owned stores.
	We retained a 20% interest in the stores as of the transaction date. We determined that we are not the primary beneficiary of the stores and the risk and rewards associated with our investment are based on ownership percentages. We determined we maintained significant influence over the operations. As a result, our 20% interest is accounted for under the equity method. We recorded the equity investment at fair value of $0.8 million as of the transaction date that resulted in a gain of $0.2 million. The gain was recorded as a component of other income on our Consolidated Statements of Operations. We determined the fair value of our equity investment based on independent third party broker opinions and financial projections using a fair value income approach.
	As of December 31, 2013, the carrying value of our equity investment was $1.2 million and was recorded as a component of other non-current assets in our Consolidated Balance Sheets.
	Sale of Land
	In the fourth quarter of 2013, we completed the sale of land in Medford, Oregon to Dick Heimann for $4.2 million. Mr. Heimann intends to relocate the stores he purchased in 2012 to this location. We determined the fair value of the land based on a third party appraisal for the property. The sale resulted in a gain of $2.5 million, recorded as a component of selling, general and administrative expenses.

Note_17_Net_Income_Per_Share_o

Note 17 - Net Income Per Share of Class A and Class B Common Stock	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2013
Earnings Per Share [Abstract]	'
Earnings Per Share [Text Block]	'
	(17)         Net Income Per Share of Class A and Class B Common Stock
	We compute net income per share of Class A and Class B common stock using the two-class method. Under this method, basic net income per share is computed using the weighted average number of common shares outstanding during the period excluding unvested common shares subject to repurchase or cancellation. Diluted net income per share is computed using the weighted average number of common shares and, if dilutive, potential common shares outstanding during the period. Potential common shares consist of the incremental common shares issuable upon the exercise of stock options and unvested restricted shares subject to repurchase or cancellation. The dilutive effect of outstanding stock options and other grants is reflected in diluted earnings per share by application of the treasury stock method. The computation of the diluted net income per share of Class A common stock assumes the conversion of Class B common stock, while the diluted net income per share of Class B common stock does not assume the conversion of those shares.
	Except with respect to voting and transfer rights, the rights of the holders of our Class A and Class B common stock are identical. Our Restated Articles of Incorporation require that the Class A and Class B common stock must share equally in any dividends, liquidation proceeds or other distribution with respect to our common stock and the Articles of Incorporation can only be amended by a vote of the stockholders. Additionally, Oregon law provides that amendments to our Articles of Incorporation, which would have the effect of adversely altering the rights, powers or preferences of a given class of stock, must be approved by the class of stock adversely affected by the proposed amendment. As a result, the undistributed earnings for each year are allocated based on the contractual participation rights of the Class A and Class B common shares as if the earnings for the year had been distributed. Because the liquidation and dividend rights are identical, the undistributed earnings are allocated on a proportionate basis.
	Following is a reconciliation of the income from continuing operations and weighted average shares used for our basic earnings per share (“EPS”) and diluted EPS for the years ended December 31, 2013, 2012 and 2011 (in thousands, except per share amounts):
	Year Ended December 31,	2013						2012						2011
	Basic EPS	Class A			Class B			Class A			Class B			Class A			Class B
	Numerator:
	Income from continuing operations applicable to common stockholders	$	94,532		$	10,682		$	69,069		$	10,326		$	47,292		$	7,918
	Distributed income applicable to common stockholders		(9,061	)		(1,024	)		(10,497	)		(1,569	)		(5,844	)		(978	)
	Basic undistributed income from continuing operations applicable to common stockholders	$	85,471		$	9,658		$	58,572		$	8,757		$	41,448		$	6,940
	Denominator:
	Weighted average number of shares out-standing used to calculate basic income per share		23,185			2,620			22,354			3,342			22,468			3,762
	Basic income from continuing operations per share applicable to common stockholders	$	4.08		$	4.08		$	3.09		$	3.09		$	2.1		$	2.1
	Basic distributed income per share applicable to common stockholders		(0.39	)		(0.39	)		(0.47	)		(0.47	)		(0.26	)		(0.26	)
	Basic undistributed income from continuing operations per share applicable to common stockholders	$	3.69		$	3.69		$	2.62		$	2.62		$	1.84		$	1.84
	Year Ended December 31,	2013						2012						2011
	Diluted EPS	Class A			Class B			Class A			Class B			Class A			Class B
	Numerator:
	Distributed income applicable to common stockholders	$	9,061		$	1,024		$	10,497		$	1,569		$	5,844		$	978
	Reallocation of distributed income as a result of conversion of dilutive stock options		15			(15	)		28			(28	)		15			(15	)
	Reallocation of distributed income due to conversion of Class B to Class A		1,009			-			1,541			-			963			-
	Diluted distributed income applicable to common stockholders	$	10,085		$	1,009		$	12,066		$	1,541		$	6,822		$	963
	Undistributed income from continuing operations applicable to common stockholders	$	85,471		$	9,658		$	58,572		$	8,757		$	41,448		$	6,940
	Reallocation of undistributed income as a result of conversion of dilutive stock options		142			(142	)		159			(159	)		113			(113	)
	Reallocation of undistributed income due to conversion of Class B to Class A		9,516			-			8,598			-			6,827			-
	Diluted undistributed income from continuing operations applicable to common stockholders	$	95,129		$	9,516		$	67,329		$	8,598		$	48,388		$	6,827
	Denominator:
	Weighted average number of shares outstanding used to calculate basic income per share		23,185			2,620			22,354			3,342			22,468			3,762
	Weighted average number of shares from stock options		386			-			474			-			434			-
	Conversion of Class B to Class A		2,620			-			3,342			-			3,762			-
	Weighted average number of shares outstanding used to calculate diluted income per share		26,191			2,620			26,170			3,342			26,664			3,762
	Year Ended December 31,	2013						2012						2011
	Diluted EPS	Class A			Class B			Class A			Class B			Class A			Class B
	Diluted income from continuing operations per share available to common stockholders	$	4.02		$	4.02		$	3.03		$	3.03		$	2.07		$	2.07
	Diluted distributed income from continuing operations per share applicable to common stockholders		(0.39	)		(0.39	)		(0.47	)		(0.47	)		(0.26	)		(0.26	)
	Diluted undistributed income from continuing operations per share applicable to common stockholders	$	3.63		$	3.63		$	2.56		$	2.56		$	1.81		$	1.81
	Antidilutive Securities:
	Shares issuable pursuant to stock options not included since they were antidilutive		16			-			45			-			280			-

Note_18_Subsequent_Events

Note 18 - Subsequent Events	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2013
Subsequent Events [Abstract]	'
Subsequent Events [Text Block]	'
	(18)         Subsequent Events
	Dividend
	On February 17, 2014, our Board of Directors approved a dividend of $0.13 per share on our Class A and Class B Common stock related to our fourth quarter 2013 financial results. The dividend will total approximately $3.4 million and will be paid on March 21, 2014 to shareholders of record on March 7, 2014.
	Acquisition
	On January 31, 2014, we acquired the inventory, equipment and intangible assets of, and assumed certain liabilities related to, Island Honda in Kahului, Hawaii. Total consideration for this acquisition was $9.5 million. We financed this acquisition with $5.7 million in cash and $3.8 million in long-term debt.
	On February 3, 2014, we acquired the inventory, equipment and intangible assets of, and assumed certain liabilities related to, Stockton Volkswagen in Stockton, California. Total consideration for this acquisition was $3.6 million.

Accounting_Policies_by_Policy_

Accounting Policies, by Policy (Policies)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2013
Accounting Policies [Abstract]	'
Basis of Accounting, Policy [Policy Text Block]	'
	Basis of Presentation
	The accompanying Consolidated Financial Statements reflect the results of operations, the financial position and the cash flows for Lithia Motors, Inc. and its directly and indirectly wholly owned subsidiaries. All intercompany balances and transactions have been eliminated in consolidation. The results of operations of stores classified as discontinued operations have been presented on a comparable basis for all periods presented in the accompanying Consolidated Statements of Operations. See Note 15.
Cash and Cash Equivalents, Policy [Policy Text Block]	'
	Cash and Cash Equivalents
	Cash and cash equivalents are defined as cash on hand and cash in bank accounts without restrictions.
Receivables, Policy [Policy Text Block]	'
	Accounts Receivable
	Accounts receivable include amounts due from the following:
		●	various lenders for the financing of vehicles sold;
		●	customers for vehicles sold and service and parts sales;
		●	manufacturers for factory rebates, dealer incentives and warranty reimbursement; and
		●	insurance companies and other miscellaneous receivables.
	Receivables are recorded at invoice and do not bear interest until they are 60 days past due. The allowance for doubtful accounts is estimated based on our historical write-off experience and is reviewed monthly. Account balances are charged against the allowance after all appropriate means of collection have been exhausted and the potential for recovery is considered remote. The annual activity for charges and subsequent recoveries is immaterial. See Note 2.
Inventory, Policy [Policy Text Block]	'
	Inventories
	Inventories are valued at the lower of market value or cost, using a pooled approach for vehicles and the specific identification method for parts. The cost of new and used vehicle inventories includes the cost of any equipment added, reconditioning and transportation.
	Manufacturers reimburse us for holdbacks, floor plan interest assistance and advertising assistance, which are reflected as a reduction in the carrying value of each vehicle purchased. We recognize advertising assistance, floor plan interest assistance, holdbacks, cash incentives and other rebates received from manufacturers that are tied to specific vehicles as a reduction to cost of sales as the related vehicles are sold.
	Parts purchase discounts that we receive from the manufacturer are reflected as a reduction in the carrying value of the parts purchased from the manufacturer and are recognized as a reduction to cost of goods sold as the related inventory is sold. See Note 3.
Property, Plant and Equipment, Policy [Policy Text Block]	'
	Property and Equipment
	Property and equipment are stated at cost and depreciated over their estimated useful lives on the straight-line basis. Leasehold improvements made at the inception of the lease or during the term of the lease are amortized on a straight-line basis over the shorter of the life of the improvement or the remaining term of the lease.
	The range of estimated useful lives is as follows:
	Buildings and improvements (years)			5	to	40
	Service equipment (years)			5	to	15
	Furniture, office equipment, signs and fixtures (years)			3	to	10
	The cost for maintenance, repairs and minor renewals is expensed as incurred, while significant remodels and betterments are capitalized. In addition, interest on borrowings for major capital projects, significant remodels and betterments are capitalized. Capitalized interest becomes a part of the cost of the depreciable asset and is depreciated according to the estimated useful lives as previously stated. For the years ended December 31, 2013, 2012 and 2011, we recorded capitalized interest of $0.1 million, $0.3 million and $0.2 million, respectively.
	When an asset is retired or otherwise disposed of, the related cost and accumulated depreciation are removed from the accounts, and any gain or loss is credited or charged to income from continuing operations.
	Leased property meeting certain criteria is capitalized and the present value of the related lease payments is recorded as a liability. Amortization of capitalized leased assets is computed on a straight-line basis over the term of the lease, unless the lease transfers title or it contains a bargain purchase option, in which case, it is amortized over the asset’s useful life, and is included in depreciation expense.
	Long-lived assets held and used by us are reviewed for impairment whenever events or circumstances indicate that the carrying amount of assets may not be recoverable. We consider several factors when evaluating whether there are indications of potential impairment related to our long-lived assets, including store profitability, overall macroeconomic factors and impact of our strategic management decisions. If recoverability testing is performed, we evaluate assets to be held and used by comparing the carrying amount of an asset to future net undiscounted cash flows associated with the asset, including its disposition. If such assets are considered to be impaired, the amount by which the carrying amount of the assets exceeds the fair value of the assets is recognized as a charge to income from continuing operations. See Note 4.
Goodwill and Intangible Assets, Intangible Assets, Indefinite-Lived, Policy [Policy Text Block]	'
	Franchise Value
	We enter into agreements (“Franchise Agreements”) with the manufacturers. Franchise value represents a right received under Franchise Agreements with manufacturers and is identified on an individual store basis.
	We evaluated the useful lives of our Franchise Agreements based on the following factors:
		●	certain of our Franchise Agreements continue indefinitely by their terms;
		●	certain of our Franchise Agreements have limited terms, but are routinely renewed without substantial cost to us;
		●	other than franchise terminations related to the unprecedented reorganizations of Chrysler and General Motors, and allowed by bankruptcy law, we are not aware of manufacturers terminating Franchise Agreements against the wishes of the franchise owners in the ordinary course of business. A manufacturer may pressure a franchise owner to sell a franchise when the owner is in breach of the franchise agreement over an extended period of time;
		●	state dealership franchise laws typically limit the rights of the manufacturer to terminate or not renew a franchise;
		●	we are not aware of any legislation or other factors that would materially change the retail automotive franchise system; and
		●	as evidenced by our acquisition and disposition history, there is an active market for most automotive dealership franchises within the United States. We attribute value to the Franchise Agreements acquired with the dealerships we purchase based on the understanding and industry practice that the Franchise Agreements will be renewed indefinitely by the manufacturer.
	Accordingly, we have determined that our Franchise Agreements will continue to contribute to our cash flows indefinitely and, therefore, have indefinite lives.
	As an indefinite-lived intangible asset, franchise value is tested for impairment at least annually, and more frequently if events or circumstances indicate the carrying value may exceed fair value. The impairment test for indefinite-lived intangible assets requires the comparison of estimated fair value to carrying value. An impairment charge is recorded to the extent the fair value is less than the carrying value. We have the option to qualitatively or quantitatively assess indefinite-lived intangible assets for impairment. In 2013 we evaluated our indefinite-lived intangible assets using a quantitative assessment process. We have determined the appropriate unit of accounting for testing franchise value for impairment is on an individual store basis.
	We test our franchise value for impairment on October 1 of each year. The quantitative assessment uses a multi-period excess earnings (“MPEE”) model to estimate the fair value of our franchises. We have determined that only certain cash flows of the store are directly attributable to franchise rights. Future cash flows are based on recently prepared operating forecasts and business plans to estimate the future economic benefits that the store will generate. Operating forecasts and cash flows include estimated revenue growth rates that are calculated based on management’s forecasted sales projections and on the U.S. Department of Labor, Bureau of Labor Statistics for historical consumer price index data. Additionally, we use a contributory asset charge to represent working capital, personal property and assembled workforce costs. A discount rate is utilized to convert the forecasted cash flows to their present value equivalent. The discount rate applied to the future cash flows factors an equity market risk premium, small stock risk premium, an average peer group beta and a risk-free interest rate. See Note 5.
Goodwill and Intangible Assets, Goodwill, Policy [Policy Text Block]	'
	Goodwill
	Goodwill represents the excess purchase price over the fair value of net assets acquired which is not allocable to separately identifiable intangible assets. Other identifiable intangible assets, such as franchise rights, are separately recognized if the intangible asset is obtained through contractual or other legal right or if the intangible asset can be sold, transferred, licensed or exchanged.
	Goodwill is not amortized but tested for impairment at least annually, and more frequently if events or circumstances indicate the carrying value of the reporting unit more likely than not exceeds fair value. We have the option to qualitatively or quantitatively assess goodwill for impairment and in 2013 evaluated our goodwill using a quantitative assessment process. We have determined that we operate as one reporting unit for the goodwill impairment test.
	We test our goodwill for impairment on October 1 of each year. We used an Adjusted Present Value (“APV”) method, a fair-value based test, to indicate the fair value of our reporting unit. Under the APV method, future cash flows based on recently prepared operating forecasts and business plans are used to estimate the future economic benefits generated by the reporting unit. Operating forecasts and cash flows include estimated revenue growth rates based on management’s forecasted sales projections and on U.S. Department of Labor, Bureau of Labor Statistics for historical consumer price index data. A discount rate is utilized to convert the forecasted cash flows to their present value equivalent representing the indicated fair value of our reporting unit. The discount rate applied to the future cash flows factors an equity market risk premium, small stock risk premium, an average peer group beta and a risk-free interest rate. We compare the indicated fair value of our reporting unit to our market capitalization, including consideration of a control premium. The control premium represents the estimated amount an investor would pay to obtain a controlling interest. We believe this reconciliation is consistent with a market participant perspective.
	The quantitative impairment test of goodwill is a two step process. The first step identifies potential impairment by comparing the estimated fair value of a reporting unit with its book value. If the fair value of the reporting unit exceeds the carrying amount, goodwill is not impaired and the second step is not necessary. If the carrying value exceeds the fair value, the second step includes determining the implied fair value in the same manner as the amount of goodwill recognized in a business combination is determined. The implied fair value of goodwill is then compared with the carrying amount of goodwill to determine if an impairment loss is necessary. See Note 5.
Advertising Costs, Policy [Policy Text Block]	'
	Advertising
	We expense production and other costs of advertising as incurred as a component of selling, general and administrative expense. Additionally, manufacturer cooperative advertising credits for qualifying, specifically-identified advertising expenditures are recognized as a reduction of advertising expense.
	Advertising expense, net of manufacturer cooperative advertising credits, was $39.6 million, $31.9 million and $23.9 million for the years ended December 31, 2013, 2012 and 2011, respectively. Manufacturer cooperative advertising credits were $11.8 million in 2013, $9.6 million in 2012 and $7.8 million in 2011.
Contract Origination Costs Policy [Policy Text Block]	'
	Contract Origination Costs
	Contract origination commissions paid to our employees directly related to the sale of our self-insured lifetime lube, oil and filter service contracts are deferred and charged to expense in proportion to the associated revenue to be recognized.
Legal Costs, Policy [Policy Text Block]	'
	Legal Costs
	We are a party to numerous legal proceedings arising in the normal course of business. We accrue for certain legal costs, including attorney fees and potential settlement claims related to various legal proceedings that are estimable and probable. See Note 7.
Share-based Compensation, Option and Incentive Plans Policy [Policy Text Block]	'
	Stock-Based Compensation
	Compensation costs associated with equity instruments exchanged for employee and director services are measured at the grant date, based on the fair value of the award, and recognized as an expense over the individual’s requisite service period (generally the vesting period of the equity award). If there is a performance-based element to the award, the expense is recognized based on the estimated attainment level, estimated time to achieve the attainment level and/or the vesting period. See Note 10.
Income Tax, Policy [Policy Text Block]	'
	Income and Other Taxes
	Income taxes are accounted for under the asset and liability method. Deferred tax assets and liabilities are recognized for the future tax consequences attributable to differences between the financial statement carrying amounts of existing assets and liabilities and their respective tax bases and operating loss and tax credit carryforwards. Deferred tax assets and liabilities are measured using enacted tax rates expected to apply to taxable income in the years in which those temporary differences are expected to be recovered or settled. The effect on deferred tax assets and liabilities of a change in tax rates is recognized in income in the period that includes the enactment date. A valuation allowance, if needed, reduces deferred tax assets when it is more likely than not that some or all of the deferred tax assets will not be realized.
	When there are situations with uncertainty as to the timing of the deduction, the amount of the deduction, or the validity of the deduction, we adjust our financial statements to reflect only those tax positions that are more-likely-than-not to be sustained. Positions that meet this criterion are measured using the largest benefit that is more than 50% likely to be realized. Interest and penalties are recorded in the period incurred or accrued when related to an uncertain tax position. See Note 13.
	We account for all taxes assessed by a governmental authority that are directly imposed on a revenue-producing transaction (i.e., sales, use, value-added) on a net (excluded from revenues) basis.
Concentration Risk, Credit Risk, Policy [Policy Text Block]	'
	Concentration of Risk and Uncertainties
	We purchase substantially all of our new vehicles and inventory from various manufacturers at the prevailing prices charged by auto makers to all franchised dealers. Our overall sales could be impacted by the auto manufacturers’ inability or unwillingness to supply dealerships with an adequate supply of popular models.
	We depend on our manufacturers to provide a supply of vehicles which supports expected sales levels. In the event that manufacturers are unable to supply the needed level of vehicles, our financial performance may be adversely impacted.
	We depend on our manufacturers to deliver high-quality, defect-free vehicles. In the event that manufacturers experience future quality issues, our financial performance may be adversely impacted.
	We are subject to a concentration of risk in the event of financial distress, including potential reorganization or bankruptcy, of a major vehicle manufacturer. Our sales volume could be materially adversely impacted by the manufacturers’ or distributors’ inability to supply the stores with an adequate supply of vehicles. We also receive incentives and rebates from our manufacturers, including cash allowances, financing programs, discounts, holdbacks and other incentives. These incentives are recorded as receivables on our Consolidated Balance Sheets until payment is received. Our financial condition could be materially adversely impacted by the manufacturers’ or distributors’ inability to continue to offer these incentives and rebates at substantially similar terms, or to pay our outstanding receivables.
	We enter into Franchise Agreements with the manufacturers. The Franchise Agreements generally limit the location of the dealership and provide the auto manufacturer approval rights over changes in dealership management and ownership. The auto manufacturers are also entitled to terminate the Franchise Agreement if the dealership is in material breach of the terms. Our ability to expand operations depends, in part, on obtaining consents of the manufacturers for the acquisition of additional dealerships. See also “Goodwill” and “Franchise Value” above.
	We have a credit facility with a syndicate of 13 financial institutions, including seven manufacturer-affiliated finance companies. Several of these financial institutions also provide mortgage financing. This credit facility is the primary source of floor plan financing for our new vehicle inventory and also provides used vehicle financing and a revolving line of credit. The term of the facility extends through December 2018, which provides a financing commitment for the next five years. At maturity our financial condition could be materially adversely impacted if lenders are unable to provide credit that has typically been extended to us or with terms unacceptable to us. Our financial condition could be materially adversely impacted if these providers incur losses in the future or undergo funding limitations.
	We anticipate continued organic growth and growth through acquisitions. This growth will require additional credit which may be unavailable or with terms unacceptable to us. If these events were to occur, we may not be able to borrow sufficient funds to facilitate our growth.
Fair Value of Financial Instruments, Policy [Policy Text Block]	'
	Financial Instruments, Fair Value and Market Risks
	The carrying amounts of cash equivalents, accounts receivable, trade payables, accrued liabilities and short-term borrowings approximate fair value because of the short-term nature and current market rates of these instruments.
	Fair value estimates are made at a specific point in time, based on relevant market information about the financial instrument. These estimates are subjective in nature and involve uncertainties and matters of significant judgment and, therefore, cannot be determined with precision. Changes in assumptions could significantly affect the estimates. See Note 12.
	We have variable rate floor plan notes payable, mortgages and other credit line borrowings that subject us to market risk exposure. At December 31, 2013, we had $833.8 million outstanding in variable rate debt. These borrowings had interest rates ranging from 1.4% to 3.0% per annum. An increase or decrease in the interest rates would affect interest expense for the period accordingly.
	The fair value of long-term, fixed interest rate debt is subject to interest rate risk. Generally, the fair value of fixed interest rate debt will increase as interest rates fall because we could refinance for a lower rate. Conversely, the fair value of fixed interest rate debt will decrease as interest rates rise. The interest rate changes affect the fair value, but do not impact earnings or cash flows. We monitor our fixed interest rate debt regularly, refinancing debt that is materially above market rates if permitted. See Note 12.
	We are also subject to market risk from changing interest rates. From time to time, we reduce our exposure to this market risk by entering into interest rate swaps and designating the swaps as cash flow hedges. We are generally exposed to credit or repayment risk based on our relationship with the counterparty to the derivative financial instrument. We minimize the credit or repayment risk on our derivative instruments by entering into transactions with institutions whose credit rating is Aa or higher. See Note 11.
Use of Estimates, Policy [Policy Text Block]	'
	Use of Estimates
	The preparation of financial statements in conformity with U.S. generally accepted accounting principles requires management to make estimates and assumptions that affect the amounts reported in the Consolidated Financial Statements and related notes to financial statements. Changes in such estimates may affect amounts reported in future periods.
	Estimates are used in the calculation of certain reserves maintained for charge-backs on estimated cancellations of service contracts; life, accident and disability insurance policies; finance fees from customer financing contracts and uncollectible accounts receivable.
	We also use estimates in the calculation of various expenses, accruals and reserves, including anticipated losses related to workers’ compensation insurance, anticipated losses related to self-insurance components of our property and casualty and medical insurance, self-insured lifetime lube, oil and filter service contracts, discretionary employee bonuses, warranties provided on certain products and services, legal reserves and stock-based compensation. We also make certain estimates regarding the assessment of the recoverability of long-lived assets, indefinite-lived intangible assets and deferred tax assets.
Extended Product Warranty, Policy [Policy Text Block]	'
	We offer a limited warranty on the sale of most retail used vehicles. This warranty is based on mileage and time. We also offer a mileage and time based warranty on parts used in our service repair work and on tire purchases. The cost that may be incurred for these warranties is estimated at the time the related revenue is recorded. A reserve for these warranty liabilities is estimated based on current sales levels, warranty experience rates and estimated costs per claim. The annual activity for reserve increases and claims are immaterial. As of December 31, 2013 and 2012, the accrued warranty balance was $0.5 million and $0.3 million, respectively.
Fair Value Measurement, Policy [Policy Text Block]	'
	Fair Value of Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed
	We estimate the fair value of the assets acquired and liabilities assumed in a business combination using various assumptions. The most significant assumptions used relate to determining the fair value of property and equipment and intangible franchise rights.
	We estimate the fair value of property and equipment based on a market valuation approach. We use prices and other relevant information generated primarily by recent market transactions involving similar or comparable assets, as well as our historical experience in divestitures, acquisitions and real estate transactions. Additionally, we may use a cost valuation approach to value long-lived assets when a market valuation approach is unavailable. Under this approach, we determine the cost to replace the service capacity of an asset, adjusted for physical and economic obsolescence. When available, we use valuation inputs from independent valuation experts, such as real estate appraisers and brokers, to corroborate our estimates of fair value.
	We use a multi-period excess earnings (“MPEE”) model to determine the fair value of intangible franchise rights. Future cash flows are estimated based on the acquired business’s preacquisition performance, management’s forecasted sales projections and historical consumer price index data provided by the U.S. Department of Labor, Bureau of Labor Statistics. Additionally, we use a contributory asset charge to represent working capital, personal property and assembled workforce costs. A discount rate is utilized to convert the forecasted cash flows to their present value equivalent. The discount rate applied to the future cash flows factors an equity market risk premium, small stock risk premium, an average peer group beta, a risk-free interest rate and a premium for forecast risk.
Revenue Recognition, Policy [Policy Text Block]	'
	Revenue Recognition
	Revenue from the sale of a vehicle is recognized when a contract is signed by the customer, financing has been arranged or collectability is reasonably assured and the delivery of the vehicle to the customer is made. We do not allow the return of new or used vehicles, except where mandated by state law.
	Revenue from parts and service is recognized upon delivery of the parts or service to the customer. We allow for customer returns on sales of our parts inventory up to 30 days after the sale. Most parts returns generally occur within one to two weeks from the time of sale, and are not significant.
	Finance fees earned for notes placed with financial institutions in connection with customer vehicle financing are recognized, net of estimated charge-backs, as finance and insurance revenue upon acceptance of the credit by the financial institution and recognition of the sale of the vehicle.
	Insurance income from third party insurance companies for commissions earned on credit life, accident and disability insurance policies sold in connection with the sale of a vehicle are recognized, net of anticipated cancellations, as finance and insurance revenue upon execution of the insurance contract and recognition of the sale of the vehicle.
	Commissions from third party service contracts are recognized, net of anticipated cancellations, as finance and insurance revenue upon sale of the contracts and recognition of the sale of the vehicle. We also participate in future underwriting profit, pursuant to retrospective commission arrangements, which is recognized in income as earned.
	Revenue related to self-insured lifetime lube, oil and filter service contracts is deferred and recognized based on expected future claims for service. The expected future claims experience is evaluated periodically to ensure it remains appropriate given actual claims history.
Segment Reporting, Policy [Policy Text Block]	'
	Segment Reporting
	We define an operating segment as a component of an enterprise that meets the following criteria:
		●	engages in business activities from which it may earn revenues and incur expenses;
		●	operating results are regularly reviewed by the enterprise’s chief operating decision maker to make decisions about resources to be allocated to the segment and assess its performance; and
		●	discrete financial information is available.
	Based on this definition, we believe we operate as a single operating and reporting segment, automotive retailing. We define our chief operating decision maker (“CODM”) to be certain members of our executive management group. Historical and forecasted operational performance is evaluated on a store-by-store basis and consolidated basis by the CODM to assess performance. We have determined that no individual store is significant enough to meet the definition of a segment. Allocation of future resources occurs on a consolidated basis as our cash management is performed centrally and performance of capital investments is evaluated on a consolidated basis.

Note_1_Summary_of_Significant_1

Note 1 - Summary of Significant Accounting Policies (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2013
Note 1 - Summary of Significant Accounting Policies (Tables) [Line Items]	'
Property, Plant and Equipment [Table Text Block]	'
	December 31,	2013				2012
	Land	$	146,126			$	128,653
	Building and improvements		316,261				279,084
	Service equipment		42,980				39,374
	Furniture, office equipment, signs and fixtures		73,565				70,082
			578,932				517,193
	Less accumulated depreciation		(106,871	)			(97,883	)
			472,061				419,310
	Construction in progress		9,151				5,776
		$	481,212			$	425,086
Useful Lives [Member]	'
Note 1 - Summary of Significant Accounting Policies (Tables) [Line Items]	'
Property, Plant and Equipment [Table Text Block]	'
	Buildings and improvements (years)		5	to	40
	Service equipment (years)		5	to	15
	Furniture, office equipment, signs and fixtures (years)		3	to	10

Note_2_Accounts_Receivable_Tab

Note 2 - Accounts Receivable (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2013
Receivables [Abstract]	'
Schedule of Accounts, Notes, Loans and Financing Receivable [Table Text Block]	'
	December 31,	2013			2012
	Contracts in transit	$	85,272		$	65,597
	Trade receivables		38,600			25,885
	Vehicle receivables		23,606			21,298
	Manufacturer receivables		31,662			25,658
			179,140			138,438
	Less: Allowance		(173	)		(336	)
	Less: Long-term portion of accounts receivable, net		(8,448	)		(4,953	)
	Total accounts receivable, net	$	170,519		$	133,149

Note_3_Inventories_Tables

Note 3 - Inventories (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2013
Inventory Disclosure [Abstract]	'
Schedule of Inventory, Current [Table Text Block]	'
	December 31,	2013		2012
	New vehicles	$	657,043	$	563,275
	Used vehicles		167,814		130,529
	Parts and accessories		34,162		29,522
	Total inventories	$	859,019	$	723,326

Note_4_Property_and_Equipment_

Note 4 - Property and Equipment (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2013
Property, Plant and Equipment [Abstract]	'
Property, Plant and Equipment [Table Text Block]	'
	December 31,	2013			2012
	Land	$	146,126		$	128,653
	Building and improvements		316,261			279,084
	Service equipment		42,980			39,374
	Furniture, office equipment, signs and fixtures		73,565			70,082
			578,932			517,193
	Less accumulated depreciation		(106,871	)		(97,883	)
			472,061			419,310
	Construction in progress		9,151			5,776
		$	481,212		$	425,086

Note_5_Goodwill_and_Franchise_1

Note 5 - Goodwill and Franchise Value (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2013
Goodwill and Intangible Assets Disclosure [Abstract]	'
Schedule of Goodwill [Table Text Block]	'
		Goodwill
	Balance as of December, 31, 2011, gross	$	318,224
	Accumulated impairment losses		(299,266	)
	Balance as of December 31, 2011, net		18,958
	Additions through acquisitions		13,710
	Goodwill allocation to dispositions		(621	)
	Balance as of December 31, 2012, net		32,047
	Additions through acquisitions		17,464
	Balance as of December 31, 2013, net	$	49,511
Schedule of Indefinite-Lived Intangible Assets [Table Text Block]	'
		Franchise Value
	Balance as of December 31, 2011	$	59,095
	Additions through acquisitions		5,174
	Transfers to discontinued operations		(1,840	)
	Balance as of December 31, 2012		62,429
	Additions through acquisitions		8,770
	Balance as of December 31, 2013	$	71,199

Note_6_Credit_Facilities_and_L1

Note 6 - Credit Facilities and Long-Term Debt (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2013
Debt Disclosure [Abstract]	'
Schedule of Debt [Table Text Block]	'
	December 31,	2013		2012
	New vehicle floor plan commitment (1) (2)	$	695,066	$	568,130
	Floor plan notes payable (2)		18,789		13,454
	Total floor plan debt		713,855		581,584
	Used vehicle inventory financing facility		85,000		78,309
	Revolving line of credit		-		21,045
	Real estate mortgages		164,827		192,928
	Other debt		2,727		2,776
	Total debt	$	966,409	$	876,642
Schedule of Maturities of Long-term Debt [Table Text Block]	'
	Year Ending December 31,
	2014	$	7,083
	2015		7,311
	2016		31,409
	2017		6,174
	2018		109,412
	Thereafter		91,165
	Total principal payments	$	252,554

Note_7_Commitments_and_Conting1

Note 7 - Commitments and Contingencies (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2013
Commitments and Contingencies Disclosure [Abstract]	'
Schedule of Future Minimum Lease Payments [Table Text Block]	'
	Year Ending December 31,
	2014	$	17,726
	2015		15,655
	2016		14,810
	2017		12,874
	2018		11,076
	Thereafter		67,048
	Total minimum lease payments		139,189
	Less: sublease rentals		(7,025	)
		$	132,164
Charge-Backs, Estimated Future Payments [Table Text Block]	'
	Year Ending December 31,
	2014	$	10,223
	2015		5,218
	2016		2,034
	2017		554
	2018		131
	Thereafter		22
	Total	$	18,182
Schedule Of Deferred Revenue, Future Recognition [Table Text Block]	'
	Year Ending December 31,
	2014	$	10,888
	2015		8,527
	2016		6,760
	2017		5,411
	2018		4,315
	Thereafter		14,157
	Total	$	50,058

Note_8_Stockholders_Equity_Tab

Note 8 - Stockholders' Equity (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2013
Stockholders' Equity Note [Abstract]	'
Class of Treasury Stock [Table Text Block]	'
		Year Ended December 31,
		2013			2012			2011
	Shares repurchased (1)		127,900			848,092			716,431
	Total purchase price (in thousands)	$	5,213		$	20,698		$	12,389
	Average purchase price per share	$	40.76		$	24.41		$	17.29
Schedule of Dividends Payable [Table Text Block]	'
	Quarter declared	Dividend amount per Class A and Class B share			Total amount of dividend
					(in thousands)
	2011
	First quarter	$	0.05		$	1,316
	Second quarter		0.07			1,851
	Third quarter		0.07			1,838
	Fourth quarter		0.07			1,817
	2012
	First quarter	$	0.07		$	1,815
	Second quarter		0.1			2,583
	Third quarter		0.1			2,545
	Fourth quarter(1)		0.2			5,123
	2013
	First quarter	$	-		$	-
	Second quarter		0.13			3,356
	Third quarter		0.13			3,363
	Fourth quarter		0.13			3,366
Reclassification out of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income [Table Text Block]	'
		Year Ended December 31,									Affected Line Item
											in the Consolidated
		2013			2012			2011			Statement of Operations
	Loss on cash flow hedges	$	(740	)	$	(1,413	)	$	(1,899	)	Floor plan interest expense
	Income tax benefits		283			541			727		Income tax provision
	Loss on cash flow hedges, net	$	(457	)	$	(872	)	$	(1,172	)

Note_9_401k_Profit_Sharing_Def1

Note 9 - 401(k) Profit Sharing, Deferred Compensation and Long-term Incentive Plans (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2013
Compensation and Retirement Disclosure [Abstract]	'
Schedule of Costs of Retirement Plans [Table Text Block]	'
		Year Ended December 31,
		2013			2012			2011
	Compensation expense (millions)	$	1.4		$	1.2		$	0.9
	Total discretionary contribution (millions)	$	2.1		$	1.9		$	1.3
	Guaranteed annual return		5.25	%		5.9	%		6	%

Note_10_Stock_Based_Compensati1

Note 10 - Stock Based Compensation (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2013
Note 10 - Stock Based Compensation (Tables) [Line Items]	'
Schedule of Share-based Compensation, Restricted Stock and Restricted Stock Units Activity [Table Text Block]	'
			Non-vested				Weighted average
			stock grants				grant date fair value
	Balance, December 31, 2012			651,943			$	13.35
	Granted			239,324				43.13
	Vested			(185,462	)			7.97
	Forfeited			(28,447	)			19.12
	Balance, December 31, 2013			677,358			$	25.1
Schedule of Percentage of Granted RSUs Earned Based on Attainment Thresholds [Table Text Block]	'
			Adjusted earnings
			per share
			attainment level			% of earned RSUs
	Less than minimum		$0.00	or negative			0	%
	Minimum		$0.01				30
	Median		$3.21				60
	Maximum		$3.53				100
Schedule of Share-based Compensation, Stock Options, Activity [Table Text Block]	'
			Shares subject				Weighted average		Aggregate intrinsic value (millions)		Weighted average
			to options				exercise price				remaining contractual term
											(years)
	Balance, December 31, 2012			253,499			$	6.26
	Granted			-				-
	Forfeited			-				-
	Expired			-				-
	Exercised			(194,615	)			6.17
	Balance, December 31, 2013			58,884			$	6.53	$	3.7		0.7
	Exercisable, December 31, 2013			58,884			$	6.53	$	3.7		0.7
Disclosure of Share-based Compensation Arrangements by Share-based Payment Award [Table Text Block]	'
	Year Ended December 31,		2013				2012		2011
	Weighted average grant-date fair value per share of stock options granted		$	-			$	-	$	-
	Per share intrinsic value of non-vested stock granted			43.13				23.82		13.58
	Weighted average per share discount for compensation expense recognized under the 2009 ESPP			8.81				4.29		2.56
	Total intrinsic value of stock options exercised (millions)			8.7				7.2		1.5
	Fair value of non-vested stock that vested during the period (millions)			8.4				3.5		0.7
	Stock-based compensation recognized in results of operations, as a component of selling, general and administrative expense - excludes compensation expense related to an option granted to one of our executives. See Note 16. (millions)			6.6				3.1		2.3
	Tax benefit recognized in Consolidated Statements of Operations (millions)			2.3				1		0.7
	Cash received from options exercised and shares purchased under all share-based arrangements (millions)			5.2				8.8		5.8
	Tax deduction realized related to stock options exercised (millions)			6.5				4.1		0.9
Executive Officer [Member]	'
Note 10 - Stock Based Compensation (Tables) [Line Items]	'
Schedule of Percentage of Granted RSUs Earned Based on Attainment Thresholds [Table Text Block]	'
	Adjusted fiscal earnings				% of earned RSUs
	per share
	attainment level
		$4.00				33%
		$5.00				33
		$6.00				34

Note_11_Derivative_Financial_I1

Note 11 - Derivative Financial Instruments (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2013
Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities Disclosure [Abstract]	'
Schedule of Derivative Instruments in Statement of Financial Position, Fair Value [Table Text Block]	'
	Balance Sheet Information (in thousands)	Fair Value of Liability Derivatives
		Location in Balance Sheet		31-Dec-13
	Derivatives designated as hedging instruments
	Interest rate swap contract	Accrued liabilities		$	1,215
		Other long-term liabilities			1,685
				$	2,900
	Balance Sheet Information (in thousands)	Fair Value of Liability Derivatives
		Location in Balance Sheet		31-Dec-12
	Derivatives designated as hedging instruments
	Interest rate swap contract	Accrued liabilities		$	1,839
		Other long-term liabilities			2,840
				$	4,679
Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss) [Table Text Block]	'
	Derivatives in Cash Flow Hedging Relationships	Amount of gain (loss) recognized in Accumulated OCI (effective portion)			Location of loss reclassified from accumulated OCI into Income (effective portion)	Amount of loss reclassified from Accumulated OCI into Income (effective portion)			Location of loss recognized in Income on derivative (ineffective portion and amount excluded from effectiveness testing)	Amount of loss recognized in Income on derivative (ineffective portion and amount excluded from effectiveness testing)
	For the Year Ended				Floor plan				Floor plan
	31-Dec-13
	Interest rate swap contract	$	1,005		Interest expense	$	(740	)	Interest expense	$	(1,235	)
	For the Year Ended				Floor plan				Floor plan
	31-Dec-12
	Interest rate swap contracts	$	1,655		Interest expense	$	(1,413	)	Interest expense	$	(2,900	)
	For the Year Ended				Floor plan				Floor plan
	31-Dec-11
	Interest rate swap contracts	$	(1,343	)	Interest expense	$	(1,899	)	Interest expense	$	(1,587	)

Note_12_Fair_Value_Measurement1

Note 12 - Fair Value Measurements (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2013
Fair Value Disclosures [Abstract]	'
Fair Value Measurements, Recurring and Nonrecurring [Table Text Block]	'
	Fair Value at December 31, 2013	Level 1		Level 2			Level 3
	Measured on a recurring basis:
	Derivative contract, net	$	-	$	(2,900	)	$	-
	Fair Value at December 31, 2012	Level 1		Level 2			Level 3
	Measured on a recurring basis:
	Derivative contract, net	$	-	$	(4,679	)	$	-
Schedule of Carrying Values and Estimated Fair Values of Debt Instruments [Table Text Block]	'
		December 31,		December 31,
		2013		2012
	Carrying value	$	132,616	$	130,469
	Fair value		126,786		134,688

Note_13_Income_Taxes_Tables

Note 13 - Income Taxes (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2013
Income Tax Disclosure [Abstract]	'
Schedule of Components of Income Tax Expense (Benefit) [Table Text Block]	'
	Year Ended December 31,	2013			2012			2011
	Current:
	Federal	$	46,727		$	31,438		$	21,779
	State		5,539			3,626			3,561
			52,266			35,064			25,340
	Deferred:
	Federal		9,010			10,888			7,046
	State		(702	)		3,110			674
			8,308			13,998			7,720
	Total	$	60,574		$	49,062		$	33,060
Schedule of Deferred Tax Assets and Liabilities [Table Text Block]	'
	December 31,	2013			2012
	Deferred tax assets:
	Deferred revenue and cancellation reserves	$	8,857		$	7,597
	Allowances and accruals, including state tax carryforward amounts		31,060			21,340
	Interest on derivatives		1,113			1,796
	Credits and other		1,937			-
	Goodwill		10,331			18,139
	Capital loss carryforward		10,893			12,248
	Valuation allowance		(11,087	)		(11,641	)
	Total deferred tax assets		53,104			49,479
	Deferred tax liabilities:
	Inventories		(6,722	)		(4,684	)
	Property and equipment, principally due to differences in depreciation		(32,563	)		(22,484	)
	Prepaid expenses and other		(2,015	)		(1,356	)
	Total deferred tax liabilities		(41,300	)		(28,524	)
	Total	$	11,804		$	20,955
Schedule of Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation [Table Text Block]	'
	Year Ended December 31,	2013			2012			2011
	Federal tax provision at statutory rate	$	58,026		$	44,723		$	30,895
	State taxes, net of federal income tax benefit		3,141			4,772			3,021
	Non-deductible expenses		1,010			618			208
	Permanent differences related to the employee stock purchase program		55			52			105
	Net change in valuation allowance		(554	)		(1,200	)		(346	)
	General business credits		(440	)		-			-
	Other		(664	)		97			(823	)
	Income tax provision	$	60,574		$	49,062		$	33,060

Note_14_Acquisitions_Tables

Note 14 - Acquisitions (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2013
Business Combinations [Abstract]	'
Schedule of Recognized Identified Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed [Table Text Block]	'
	Consideration paid for year ended December 31,	2013			2012
	Cash paid, net of cash acquired	$	81,105		$	44,716
	Assets acquired and liabilities assumed for year ended December 31,	2013			2012
	Inventories	$	30,624		$	17,541
	Franchise value		8,770			5,174
	Property, plant and equipment		24,741			11,097
	Real estate lease reserves		(221	)		-
	Other assets		264			110
	Reserves		(344	)		-
	Capital lease obligations		(37	)		(2,609	)
	Other liabilities		(156	)		(307	)
			63,641			31,006
	Goodwill		17,464			13,710
		$	81,105		$	44,716
Business Acquisition, Pro Forma Information [Table Text Block]	'
	Year Ended December 31,	2013			2012			2011
	Revenue	$	4,144,945		$	3,571,853		$	2,789,436
	Income from continuing operations, net of tax		105,783			81,531			56,904
	Basic income per share from continuing operations, net of tax		4.1			3.17			2.17
	Diluted income per share from continuing operations, net of tax		4.04			3.12			2.13

Note_15_Discontinued_Operation1

Note 15 - Discontinued Operations (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2013
Discontinued Operations and Disposal Groups [Abstract]	'
Disclosure of Long Lived Assets Held-for-sale [Table Text Block]	'
	December 31,	2013
	Inventories	$	8,260
	Property, plant and equipment		1,194
	Intangible assets		2,072
		$	11,526
	December 31,	2013
	Floor plan notes payable	$	6,271
Schedule of Disposal Groups, Including Discontinued Operations, Income Statement, Balance Sheet and Additional Disclosures [Table Text Block]	'
	Year Ended December 31,	2013			2012			2011
	Floor plan interest	$	117		$	217		$	520
	Other interest		21			69			108
	Total interest	$	138		$	286		$	628
	Year Ended December 31,	2013			2012			2011
	Revenue	$	38,978		$	82,150		$	131,380
	Pre-tax gain from discontinued operations	$	1,310		$	2,186		$	1,516
	Net gain (loss) on disposal activities		-			(621	)		4,396
			1,310			1,565			5,912
	Income tax expense		(524	)		(598	)		(2,262	)
	Income from discontinued operations, net of income tax expense	$	786		$	967		$	3,650
	Goodwill and other intangible assets disposed of	$	-		$	169		$	712
	Year Ended December 31,	2013			2012			2011
	Goodwill and other intangible assets	$	-		$	(169	)	$	3,168
	Property, plant and equipment		-			(299	)		1,357
	Inventory		-			(82	)		(88	)
	Other		-			(71	)		(41	)
		$	-		$	(621	)	$	4,396

Note_17_Net_Income_Per_Share_o1

Note 17 - Net Income Per Share of Class A and Class B Common Stock (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2013
Earnings Per Share [Abstract]	'
Schedule of Earnings Per Share, Basic and Diluted [Table Text Block]	'
	Year Ended December 31,	2013						2012						2011
	Basic EPS	Class A			Class B			Class A			Class B			Class A			Class B
	Numerator:
	Income from continuing operations applicable to common stockholders	$	94,532		$	10,682		$	69,069		$	10,326		$	47,292		$	7,918
	Distributed income applicable to common stockholders		(9,061	)		(1,024	)		(10,497	)		(1,569	)		(5,844	)		(978	)
	Basic undistributed income from continuing operations applicable to common stockholders	$	85,471		$	9,658		$	58,572		$	8,757		$	41,448		$	6,940
	Denominator:
	Weighted average number of shares out-standing used to calculate basic income per share		23,185			2,620			22,354			3,342			22,468			3,762
	Basic income from continuing operations per share applicable to common stockholders	$	4.08		$	4.08		$	3.09		$	3.09		$	2.1		$	2.1
	Basic distributed income per share applicable to common stockholders		(0.39	)		(0.39	)		(0.47	)		(0.47	)		(0.26	)		(0.26	)
	Basic undistributed income from continuing operations per share applicable to common stockholders	$	3.69		$	3.69		$	2.62		$	2.62		$	1.84		$	1.84
	Year Ended December 31,	2013						2012						2011
	Diluted EPS	Class A			Class B			Class A			Class B			Class A			Class B
	Numerator:
	Distributed income applicable to common stockholders	$	9,061		$	1,024		$	10,497		$	1,569		$	5,844		$	978
	Reallocation of distributed income as a result of conversion of dilutive stock options		15			(15	)		28			(28	)		15			(15	)
	Reallocation of distributed income due to conversion of Class B to Class A		1,009			-			1,541			-			963			-
	Diluted distributed income applicable to common stockholders	$	10,085		$	1,009		$	12,066		$	1,541		$	6,822		$	963
	Undistributed income from continuing operations applicable to common stockholders	$	85,471		$	9,658		$	58,572		$	8,757		$	41,448		$	6,940
	Reallocation of undistributed income as a result of conversion of dilutive stock options		142			(142	)		159			(159	)		113			(113	)
	Reallocation of undistributed income due to conversion of Class B to Class A		9,516			-			8,598			-			6,827			-
	Diluted undistributed income from continuing operations applicable to common stockholders	$	95,129		$	9,516		$	67,329		$	8,598		$	48,388		$	6,827
	Denominator:
	Weighted average number of shares outstanding used to calculate basic income per share		23,185			2,620			22,354			3,342			22,468			3,762
	Weighted average number of shares from stock options		386			-			474			-			434			-
	Conversion of Class B to Class A		2,620			-			3,342			-			3,762			-
	Weighted average number of shares outstanding used to calculate diluted income per share		26,191			2,620			26,170			3,342			26,664			3,762
	Year Ended December 31,	2013						2012						2011
	Diluted EPS	Class A			Class B			Class A			Class B			Class A			Class B
	Diluted income from continuing operations per share available to common stockholders	$	4.02		$	4.02		$	3.03		$	3.03		$	2.07		$	2.07
	Diluted distributed income from continuing operations per share applicable to common stockholders		(0.39	)		(0.39	)		(0.47	)		(0.47	)		(0.26	)		(0.26	)
	Diluted undistributed income from continuing operations per share applicable to common stockholders	$	3.63		$	3.63		$	2.56		$	2.56		$	1.81		$	1.81
	Antidilutive Securities:
	Shares issuable pursuant to stock options not included since they were antidilutive		16			-			45			-			280			-

Note_1_Summary_of_Significant_2

Note 1 - Summary of Significant Accounting Policies (Details) (USD $)	12 Months Ended			0 Months Ended	12 Months Ended
In Millions, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012	Dec. 31, 2011	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2013
				Revolving Credit Facility [Member]	Revolving Credit Facility [Member]	Minimum [Member]	Maximum [Member]
Note 1 - Summary of Significant Accounting Policies (Details) [Line Items]	'	'	'	'	'	'	'
Number of New Vehicle Brands	28	'	'	'	'	'	'
Number of Stores	94	'	'	'	'	'	'
Interest Costs Capitalized	$0.10	$0.30	$0.20	'	'	'	'
Advertising Expense	39.6	31.9	23.9	'	'	'	'
Cooperative Advertising Amount	11.8	9.6	7.8	'	'	'	'
Number of Financial Institutions	'	'	'	13	13	'	'
Number of Manufacturer Affiliated Finance Companies	'	'	'	7	7	'	'
Debt Instrument, Term	'	'	'	'5 years	'5 years	'	'
Long-term Debt, Percentage Bearing Variable Interest, Amount	833.8	'	'	'	'	'	'
Long-term Debt, Percentage Bearing Variable Interest, Percentage Rate	'	'	'	'	'	1.40%	3.00%
Product Warranty Accrual	$0.50	$0.30	'	'	'	'	'

Note_1_Summary_of_Significant_3

Note 1 - Summary of Significant Accounting Policies (Details) - Estimated Useful Lives	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2013
Building and Building Improvements [Member] | Minimum [Member]	'
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]	'
Property and equipment, useful life	'5 years
Building and Building Improvements [Member] | Maximum [Member]	'
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]	'
Property and equipment, useful life	'40 years
Equipment [Member] | Minimum [Member]	'
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]	'
Property and equipment, useful life	'5 years
Equipment [Member] | Maximum [Member]	'
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]	'
Property and equipment, useful life	'15 years
Furniture and Fixtures [Member] | Minimum [Member]	'
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]	'
Property and equipment, useful life	'3 years
Furniture and Fixtures [Member] | Maximum [Member]	'
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]	'
Property and equipment, useful life	'10 years

Note_2_Accounts_Receivable_Det

Note 2 - Accounts Receivable (Details) - Accounts Receivable (USD $)	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified
Accounts, Notes, Loans and Financing Receivable [Line Items]	'	'
Receivables	$179,140	$138,438
Less: Allowance	-173	-336
Less: Long-term portion of accounts receivable, net	-8,448	-4,953
Total accounts receivable, net	170,519	133,149
Contracts in Transit [Member]	'	'
Accounts, Notes, Loans and Financing Receivable [Line Items]	'	'
Receivables	85,272	65,597
Trade Accounts Receivable [Member]	'	'
Accounts, Notes, Loans and Financing Receivable [Line Items]	'	'
Receivables	38,600	25,885
Vehicle Receivables [Member]	'	'
Accounts, Notes, Loans and Financing Receivable [Line Items]	'	'
Receivables	23,606	21,298
Manufacturer Receivables [Member]	'	'
Accounts, Notes, Loans and Financing Receivable [Line Items]	'	'
Receivables	$31,662	$25,658

Note_3_Inventories_Details

Note 3 - Inventories (Details) (USD $)	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
In Millions, unless otherwise specified
Inventory Disclosure [Abstract]	'	'
Inventory Adjustments	$6	$4.80

Note_3_Inventories_Details_Inv

Note 3 - Inventories (Details) - Inventories (USD $)	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified
Inventory [Line Items]	'	'
Inventories, net	$859,019	$723,326
New Vehicle [Member]	'	'
Inventory [Line Items]	'	'
Inventories, net	657,043	563,275
Used Vehicle [Member]	'	'
Inventory [Line Items]	'	'
Inventories, net	167,814	130,529
Parts and Accessories [Member]	'	'
Inventory [Line Items]	'	'
Inventories, net	$34,162	$29,522

Note_4_Property_and_Equipment_1

Note 4 - Property and Equipment (Details) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2012	Dec. 31, 2011
Property, Plant and Equipment [Abstract]	'	'
Asset Impairment Charges	$115	$1,376

Note_4_Property_and_Equipment_2

Note 4 - Property and Equipment (Details) - Property and Equipment (USD $)	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]	'	'
Less accumulated depreciation	($106,871)	($97,883)
Property and equipment, net	481,212	425,086
Land [Member]	'	'
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]	'	'
Property and equipment, gross	146,126	128,653
Building and Building Improvements [Member]	'	'
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]	'	'
Property and equipment, gross	316,261	279,084
Equipment [Member]	'	'
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]	'	'
Property and equipment, gross	42,980	39,374
Furniture and Fixtures [Member]	'	'
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]	'	'
Property and equipment, gross	73,565	70,082
Excluding Construction in Progress [Member]	'	'
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]	'	'
Property and equipment, gross	578,932	517,193
Property and equipment, net	472,061	419,310
Construction in Progress [Member]	'	'
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]	'	'
Property and equipment, gross	$9,151	$5,776

Note_5_Goodwill_and_Franchise_2

Note 5 - Goodwill and Franchise Value (Details) - Goodwill (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012	Dec. 31, 2011	Dec. 31, 2010
Goodwill [Abstract]	'	'	'	'
Balance as of December, 31, 2011, gross	'	'	$318,224	'
Accumulated impairment losses	'	'	'	-299,266
Balance, net	49,511	32,047	18,958	'
Additions through acquisitions	17,464	13,710	'	'
Goodwill allocation to dispositions	'	($621)	'	'

Note_5_Goodwill_and_Franchise_3

Note 5 - Goodwill and Franchise Value (Details) - Franchise Value (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012	Dec. 31, 2011
Franchise Value [Abstract]	'	'	'
Balance	$71,199	$62,429	$59,095
Transfers to discontinued operations	'	-1,840	'
Additions through acquisitions	$8,770	$5,174	'

Note_6_Credit_Facilities_and_L2

Note 6 - Credit Facilities and Long-Term Debt (Details) (USD $)

Dec. 31, 2013

Dec. 31, 2012

Dec. 31, 2013

Dec. 31, 2013

Dec. 31, 2013

Dec. 31, 2013

Dec. 31, 2013

Dec. 31, 2012

Dec. 31, 2013

Dec. 31, 2013

Dec. 16, 2013

Dec. 31, 2013

Dec. 31, 2013

Dec. 31, 2013

Dec. 31, 2013

Dec. 31, 2013

Dec. 31, 2013

Dec. 31, 2013

Dec. 31, 2013

Subject to Lender Approval [Member]

New Vehicle Floor Plan [Member]

Mortgages [Member]

Other [Member]

New Vehicle Floor Plan [Member]

New Vehicle Floor Plan [Member]

Revolving Credit Facility [Member]

Revolving Credit Facility [Member]

Revolving Credit Facility [Member]

Line of Credit [Member]

Used Vehicle Inventory Financing [Member]

Minimum [Member]

Minimum [Member]

Minimum [Member]

Maximum [Member]

Maximum [Member]

Maximum [Member]

Revolving Credit Facility [Member]

London Interbank Offered Rate (LIBOR) [Member]

Mortgages [Member]

Other [Member]

London Interbank Offered Rate (LIBOR) [Member]

Mortgages [Member]

Other [Member]

Revolving Credit Facility [Member]

Revolving Credit Facility [Member]

Note 6 - Credit Facilities and Long-Term Debt (Details) [Line Items]

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Line of Credit Facility, Maximum Borrowing Capacity (in Dollars)

'

'

$1,250,000,000

'

'

'

$700,000,000

$575,000,000

'

'

$1,000,000,000

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Liabilities of Assets Held-for-sale (in Dollars)

6,271,000

8,347,000

'

1,500,000

'

'

4,800,000

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Debt Instrument, Term

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'5 years

'5 years

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Number of Financial Institutions

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

13

13

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Number of Manufacturer Affiliated Finance Companies

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

7

7

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Line of Credit Facility, Unused Portion Subject to Reallocation (in Dollars)

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

250,000,000

250,000,000

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Line of Credit Facility, Reallocation Limit as Percentage of Aggregate Commitment

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

20.00%

20.00%

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Line of Credit Facility, Reallocation Limit, Amount (in Dollars)

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

200,000,000

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Principal Reduction Accounts, Maximum Deposit, Amount (in Dollars)

50,000,000

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Principal Reduction Accounts, Outstanding Amount (in Dollars)

0

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Reserve Commitment, Percent

'

'

'

'

'

'

95.00%

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Reserve Amount (in Dollars)

'

'

'

'

'

'

15,000,000

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Debt Instrument, Basis Spread on Variable Rate

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

1.25%

'

'

2.50%

'

'

Line of Credit Facility, Interest Rate During Period

'

'

'

'

'

'

1.40%

'

'

'

'

1.40%

1.70%

'

'

'

'

'

'

Debt Covenant, Current Ratio

1.2

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Current Ratio

1.41

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Debt Covenant, Fixed Charge Coverage Ratio

1.2

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Fixed Charge Coverage Ratio

3.94

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Debt Covenant, Leverage Ratio

5

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Leverage Ratio

1.38

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Debt Covenant, Funded Debt Restriction (in Dollars)

375,000,000

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Long-term Debt, Excluding Current Maturities (in Dollars)

167,600,000

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Floor Plan Notes Payable (in Dollars)

18,789,000

[1]

13,454,000

[1]

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Debt Instrument, Interest Rate, Stated Percentage

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

1.70%

2.00%

'

4.40%

9.40%

Total Debt, Fixed Rate, Percent

'

'

'

'

79.00%

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Long-term Debt (in Dollars)

$252,554,000

'

'

'

'

$2,700,000

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

[1]

At December 31, 2013, an additional $4.8 million of floor plan notes payable outstanding on our new vehicle floor plan commitment and $1.5 million of floor plan notes payable on vehicles designated as service loaners are recorded as liabilities related to assets held for sale.

Note_6_Credit_Facilities_and_L3

Note 6 - Credit Facilities and Long-Term Debt (Details) - Credit Facilities and Long-term Debt (USD $)	Dec. 31, 2013		Dec. 31, 2012
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified
Note 6 - Credit Facilities and Long-Term Debt (Details) - Credit Facilities and Long-term Debt [Line Items]	'		'
New vehicle floor plan commitment (1) (2)	$695,066	[1],[2]	$568,130	[1],[2]
Floor plan notes payable (2)	18,789	[2]	13,454	[2]
Total floor plan debt	713,855		581,584
Real estate mortgages	164,827		192,928
Other debt	2,727		2,776
Total debt	966,409		876,642
Used Vehicle Inventory Financing [Member]	'		'
Note 6 - Credit Facilities and Long-Term Debt (Details) - Credit Facilities and Long-term Debt [Line Items]	'		'
Credit facility	85,000		78,309
Line of Credit [Member]	'		'
Note 6 - Credit Facilities and Long-Term Debt (Details) - Credit Facilities and Long-term Debt [Line Items]	'		'
Credit facility	'		$21,045
[1]	As of December 31, 2013 and 2012, we had a new vehicle floor plan commitment of $700 million and $575 million, respectively, as part of our credit facility.
[2]	At December 31, 2013, an additional $4.8 million of floor plan notes payable outstanding on our new vehicle floor plan commitment and $1.5 million of floor plan notes payable on vehicles designated as service loaners are recorded as liabilities related to assets held for sale.

Note_6_Credit_Facilities_and_L4

Note 6 - Credit Facilities and Long-Term Debt (Details) - Future Principal Payments on Long-term Debt (USD $)	Dec. 31, 2013
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified
Future Principal Payments on Long-term Debt [Abstract]	'
2014	$7,083
2015	7,311
2016	31,409
2017	6,174
2018	109,412
Thereafter	91,165
Total principal payments	$252,554

Note_7_Commitments_and_Conting2

Note 7 - Commitments and Contingencies (Details) (USD $)	12 Months Ended			1 Months Ended	7 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012	Dec. 31, 2011	Dec. 31, 2006	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2013
				Per Violation [Member]	Cash and Vouchers [Member]	For Each Claim Representative [Member]	Selling, General and Administrative Expenses [Member]	Lifetime Oil Contracts [Member]	Assumed Lifetime Oil Contracts [Member]
							Accounts Payable and Accrued Liabilities [Member]
Note 7 - Commitments and Contingencies (Details) [Line Items]	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'
Operating Leases, Rent Expense, Minimum Rentals	$14,000,000	$15,200,000	$13,300,000	'	'	'	'	'	'
Payments to Acquire Property, Plant, and Equipment	50,025,000	64,584,000	31,673,000	'	'	'	'	'	'
Charge-Backs Liabilities	18,182,000	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'
Deferred Revenue	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	50,100,000	'
Contracts Obligations Reserve	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	3,400,000
Self Insurance Reserve	12,000,000	12,400,000	'	'	'	'	'	'	'
Loss Contingency, Damages Sought, Value	'	'	'	500	'	'	'	'	'
Loss Contingency, Damages Awarded, Value	'	'	'	'	450	3,000	'	'	'
Loss Contingency Accrual, Provision	'	'	'	'	'	'	$6,200,000	'	'

Note_7_Commitments_and_Conting3

Note 7 - Commitments and Contingencies (Details) - Minimum Lease Payments (USD $)	Dec. 31, 2013
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified
Minimum Lease Payments [Abstract]	'
2014	$17,726
2015	15,655
2016	14,810
2017	12,874
2018	11,076
Thereafter	67,048
Total minimum lease payments	139,189
Less: sublease rentals	-7,025
	$132,164

Note_7_Commitments_and_Conting4

Note 7 - Commitments and Contingencies (Details) - Charge-Backs for Various Contracts (USD $)	Dec. 31, 2013
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified
Charge-Backs for Various Contracts [Abstract]	'
2014	$10,223
2015	5,218
2016	2,034
2017	554
2018	131
Thereafter	22
Total	$18,182

Note_7_Commitments_and_Conting5

Note 7 - Commitments and Contingencies (Details) - Lifetime Lube, Oil and Filter Contracts Aquired (Lifetime Oil Contracts [Member], USD $)	Dec. 31, 2013
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified
Lifetime Oil Contracts [Member]	'
Note 7 - Commitments and Contingencies (Details) - Lifetime Lube, Oil and Filter Contracts Aquired [Line Items]	'
2014	$10,888
2015	8,527
2016	6,760
2017	5,411
2018	4,315
Thereafter	14,157
Total	$50,058

Note_8_Stockholders_Equity_Det

Note 8 - Stockholders' Equity (Details) (USD $)

1 Months Ended

12 Months Ended

12 Months Ended

29 Months Ended

12 Months Ended

In Thousands, except Share data, unless otherwise specified

Dec. 31, 2012

Nov. 30, 2012

Dec. 31, 2013

Dec. 31, 2012

Dec. 31, 2011

Dec. 31, 2013

Dec. 31, 2013

Dec. 31, 2012

Dec. 31, 2011

Dec. 31, 2013

Aug. 31, 2011

Jun. 30, 2000

Dec. 31, 2013

Additional Shares Authorized [Member]

Common Class A [Member]

Common Class A [Member]

Common Class A [Member]

Common Class A [Member]

Common Class A [Member]

Common Class A [Member]

Common Class B [Member]

Common Class A [Member]

Note 8 - Stockholders' Equity (Details) [Line Items]

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Common Stock, Voting Rights

'

'

'

'

'

'

'one

'

'

'

'

'

'ten

Stock Repurchase Program, Number of Shares Authorized to be Repurchased

'

'

'

'

'

1,000,000

'

'

'

'

2,000,000

1,000,000

'

Stock Repurchased During Period, Shares

'

'

'

'

419,376

'

'

'

'

1,273,047

'

'

'

Treasury Stock Acquired, Average Cost Per Share (in Dollars per share)

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

$24.18

'

'

'

Stock Repurchase Program, Remaining Number of Shares Authorized to be Repurchased

'

'

'

'

'

'

1,726,953

'

'

1,726,953

'

'

'

Shares Paid for Tax Withholding for Share Based Compensation

'

'

'

'

'

'

59,721

80,687

56,012

'

'

'

'

Payments of Dividends (in Dollars)

$2,600

$2,500

$10,085

$12,066

$6,822

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Note_8_Stockholders_Equity_Det1

Note 8 - Stockholders' Equity (Details) - Share Repurchases (USD $)	12 Months Ended									29 Months Ended
In Thousands, except Share data, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012	Dec. 31, 2011	Dec. 31, 2013		Dec. 31, 2012		Dec. 31, 2011		Dec. 31, 2013
				Common Class A [Member]		Common Class A [Member]		Common Class A [Member]		Common Class A [Member]
				Share Repurchase Plan [Member]		Share Repurchase Plan [Member]		Share Repurchase Plan [Member]
Equity, Class of Treasury Stock [Line Items]	'	'	'	'		'		'		'
Shares repurchased (1)	'	'	419,376	127,900	[1]	848,092	[1]	716,431	[1]	1,273,047
Total purchase price (in thousands) (in Dollars)	$7,903	$23,279	$13,568	$5,213		$20,698		$12,389		'
Average purchase price per share (in Dollars per share)	'	'	'	$40.76		$24.41		$17.29		$24.18
[1]	Includes only shares repurchased under repurchase plans. An additional 59,721, 80,687 and 56,012 shares were repurchased in association with tax withholdings on the exercise of stock options in 2013, 2012 and 2011, respectively.

Note_8_Stockholders_Equity_Det2

Note 8 - Stockholders' Equity (Details) - Dividends (USD $)	3 Months Ended
In Thousands, except Per Share data, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2013	Sep. 30, 2013	Jun. 30, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012		Sep. 30, 2012	Jun. 30, 2012	Mar. 31, 2012	Dec. 31, 2011	Sep. 30, 2011	Jun. 30, 2011	Mar. 31, 2011
Dividends [Abstract]	'	'	'	'		'	'	'	'	'	'	'
Dividend amount per Class A and Class B share (in Dollars per share)	$0.13	$0.13	$0.13	$0.20	[1]	$0.10	$0.10	$0.07	$0.07	$0.07	$0.07	$0.05
Total amount of dividend	$3,366	$3,363	$3,356	$5,123	[1]	$2,545	$2,583	$1,815	$1,817	$1,838	$1,851	$1,316
[1]	In November 2012, we paid dividends of $2.5 million that had been declared in October 2012. An additional dividend payment of $2.6 million was declared and paid in December 2012 in lieu of the dividend typically declared and paid in March of the following year.

Note_8_Stockholders_Equity_Det3

Note 8 - Stockholders' Equity (Details) - Reclassification from Accumulated Other Comprehensive Loss (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012	Dec. 31, 2011
Reclassification Adjustment out of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income on Derivatives [Line Items]	'	'	'
Loss on cash flow hedges, net	($457)	($872)	($1,172)
Floor Plan Interest Expense [Member]	'	'	'
Reclassification Adjustment out of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income on Derivatives [Line Items]	'	'	'
Loss on cash flow hedges	-740	-1,413	-1,899
Income Tax Provision [Member]	'	'	'
Reclassification Adjustment out of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income on Derivatives [Line Items]	'	'	'
Income tax benefits	$283	$541	$727

Note_9_401k_Profit_Sharing_Def2

Note 9 - 401(k) Profit Sharing, Deferred Compensation and Long-term Incentive Plans (Details) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Millions, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012	Dec. 31, 2011
Compensation and Retirement Disclosure [Abstract]	'	'	'
Defined Contribution Plan, Employer Discretionary Contribution Amount	$2.10	$1.90	$1.70
Deferred Compensation Liability, Classified, Noncurrent	$7.10	'	'

Note_9_401k_Profit_Sharing_Def3

Note 9 - 401(k) Profit Sharing, Deferred Compensation and Long-term Incentive Plans (Details) - Summary Related to Long-term Incentive Plan (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Millions, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012	Dec. 31, 2011
Summary Related to Long-term Incentive Plan [Abstract]	'	'	'
Compensation expense (millions)	$1.40	$1.20	$0.90
Total discretionary contribution (millions)	$2.10	$1.90	$1.30
Guaranteed annual return	5.25%	5.90%	6.00%

Note_10_Stock_Based_Compensati2

Note 10 - Stock Based Compensation (Details) (USD $)

12 Months Ended

12 Months Ended

120 Months Ended

12 Months Ended

12 Months Ended

Dec. 31, 2013

Dec. 31, 2012

Dec. 31, 2011

Dec. 31, 2013

Dec. 31, 2013

Dec. 31, 2013

Dec. 31, 2013

Dec. 31, 2013

Dec. 31, 2013

Dec. 31, 2013

Dec. 31, 2013

Dec. 31, 2013

Dec. 31, 2013

Dec. 31, 2013

Dec. 31, 2013

Dec. 31, 2013

Dec. 31, 2013

Dec. 31, 2013

Dec. 31, 2013

Dec. 31, 2013

Dec. 31, 2013

Dec. 31, 2013

Dec. 31, 2012

Dec. 31, 2011

Dec. 31, 2013

Dec. 31, 2013

Pro Forma [Member]

Attainment Level 1 [Member]

Attainment Level 1 [Member]

Attainment Level 1 [Member]

Restricted Stock [Member]

Time-vesting RSU [Member]

Performance and Time-vesting RSUs [Member]

Performance and Time-vesting RSUs [Member]

Performance and Time-vesting RSUs [Member]

Performance and Time-vesting RSUs [Member]

Performance and Time-vesting RSUs [Member]

Performance RSU [Member]

Restricted Stock Units (RSUs) [Member]

Employee Stock Option [Member]

Employee Stock Option [Member]

Employee Stock Option [Member]

Employee Stock Option [Member]

2009 ESPP [Member]

2009 ESPP [Member]

2009 ESPP [Member]

2009 ESPP [Member]

2009 ESPP [Member]

2013 Stock Incentive Plan [Member]

Performance RSU [Member]

Restricted Stock Units (RSUs) [Member]

Restricted Stock Units (RSUs) [Member]

2013 Stock Incentive Plan [Member]

2013 Stock Incentive Plan [Member]

2013 Stock Incentive Plan [Member]

2013 Stock Incentive Plan [Member]

Maximum [Member]

Minimum [Member]

2013 Stock Incentive Plan [Member]

2013 Stock Incentive Plan [Member]

2013 Stock Incentive Plan [Member]

2013 Stock Incentive Plan [Member]

Net of Discount [Member]

Per Share Discount [Member]

Per Share Discount [Member]

Per Share Discount [Member]

2013 Stock Incentive Plan [Member]

Maximum [Member]

Minimum [Member]

Maximum [Member]

Note 10 - Stock Based Compensation (Details) [Line Items]

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Number of Shares Authorized

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

1,500,000

3,800,000

Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Maximum Employee Subscription Rate

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

10.00%

'

Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Maximum Amount of Stock per Employee (in Dollars)

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

$25,000

'

Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Purchase Price of Common Stock, Percent

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

85.00%

'

Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Shares Issued in Period

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

77,005

'

Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Per Share Weighted Average Price of Shares Purchased (in Dollars per share)

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

$49.94

$8.81

$4.29

$2.56

'

'

Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Number of Shares Available for Grant

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

604,288

1,573,080

Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Discount from Market Price, Offering Date

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

15.00%

'

Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Award Vesting Period

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'6 years

'

'

'4 years

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'5 years

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Stock Issued During Period, Shares, Restricted Stock Award, Gross

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

77,736

52,820

'

'

'

'

108,768

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Attainment Level

'

'

'

'

33.00%

33.00%

'

'

'

100.00%

'

'

100.00%

30.00%

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Earnings Per Share, Diluted (in Dollars per share)

$4.05

$3.07

$2.21

$4.02

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Estimated Allocated Share Based Compensation Expense (in Dollars)

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

2,200,000

'

'

'

4,700,000

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Allocated Share-based Compensation Expense (in Dollars)

6,600,000

3,100,000

2,300,000

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

500,000

'

'

'

2,400,000

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award,Attainment Level of Earnings per Share (in Dollars per share)

'

'

'

'

$4

'

$4

'

'

'

'

'

$3.53

$0.01

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Expiration Period

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'10 years

'6 years

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Employee Service Share-based Compensation, Nonvested Awards, Compensation Not yet Recognized, Stock Options (in Dollars)

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

$9,200,000

'

'

'

'

'

'

Employee Service Share-based Compensation, Nonvested Awards, Compensation Cost Not yet Recognized, Period for Recognition

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'1 year 328 days

'

'

'

'

'

'

Note_10_Stock_Based_Compensati3

Note 10 - Stock Based Compensation (Details) - Stock Incentive Plans Activity - Restricted Stock (Restricted Stock [Member], USD $)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2013
Restricted Stock [Member]	'
Note 10 - Stock Based Compensation (Details) - Stock Incentive Plans Activity - Restricted Stock [Line Items]	'
Balance, December 31, 2012	651,943
Balance, December 31, 2012 (in Dollars per share)	$13.35
Granted	239,324
Granted (in Dollars per share)	$43.13
Vested	-185,462
Vested (in Dollars per share)	$7.97
Forfeited	-28,447
Forfeited (in Dollars per share)	$19.12
Balance, December 31, 2013	677,358
Balance, December 31, 2013 (in Dollars per share)	$25.10

Note_10_Stock_Based_Compensati4

Note 10 - Stock Based Compensation (Details) - Percentage of Granted RSUs Earned Based on Attainment Thresholds (Performance and Time-vesting RSUs [Member], USD $)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2013
Less than Minimum [Member]	'
Note 10 - Stock Based Compensation (Details) - Percentage of Granted RSUs Earned Based on Attainment Thresholds [Line Items]	'
Adjusted earnings per share attainment level (in Dollars per share)	$0
% of earned RSUs	0.00%
Minimum [Member]	'
Note 10 - Stock Based Compensation (Details) - Percentage of Granted RSUs Earned Based on Attainment Thresholds [Line Items]	'
Adjusted earnings per share attainment level (in Dollars per share)	$0.01
% of earned RSUs	30.00%
Median [Member]	'
Note 10 - Stock Based Compensation (Details) - Percentage of Granted RSUs Earned Based on Attainment Thresholds [Line Items]	'
Adjusted earnings per share attainment level (in Dollars per share)	$3.21
% of earned RSUs	60.00%
Maximum [Member]	'
Note 10 - Stock Based Compensation (Details) - Percentage of Granted RSUs Earned Based on Attainment Thresholds [Line Items]	'
Adjusted earnings per share attainment level (in Dollars per share)	$3.53
% of earned RSUs	100.00%

Note_10_Stock_Based_Compensati5

Note 10 - Stock Based Compensation (Details) - Percentage of Granted RSUs Earned Based on Attainment Thresholds (Performance RSU [Member], USD $)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2013
Attainment Level 1 [Member]	'
Note 10 - Stock Based Compensation (Details) - Percentage of Granted RSUs Earned Based on Attainment Thresholds [Line Items]	'
Adjusted fiscal earnings per share attainment level (in Dollars per share)	$4
% of earned RSUs	33.00%
Attainment Level 2 [Member]	'
Note 10 - Stock Based Compensation (Details) - Percentage of Granted RSUs Earned Based on Attainment Thresholds [Line Items]	'
Adjusted fiscal earnings per share attainment level (in Dollars per share)	$5
% of earned RSUs	33.00%
Attainment Level 3 [Member]	'
Note 10 - Stock Based Compensation (Details) - Percentage of Granted RSUs Earned Based on Attainment Thresholds [Line Items]	'
Adjusted fiscal earnings per share attainment level (in Dollars per share)	$6
% of earned RSUs	34.00%

Note_10_Stock_Based_Compensati6

Note 10 - Stock Based Compensation (Details) - Stock Incentive Plans Activity - Stock Options (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Millions, except Share data, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
Stock Incentive Plans Activity - Stock Options [Abstract]	'	'
Shares Subject to Options	58,884	253,499
Weighted Average Exercise Price (in Dollars per share)	$6.53	$6.26
Aggregate Intrinsic Value (in Dollars)	$3.70	'
Weighted Average Remaining Contractual Term (years)	'255 days	'
Exercisable, December 31, 2013	58,884	'
Exercisable, December 31, 2013 (in Dollars per share)	$6.53	'
Exercisable, December 31, 2013 (in Dollars)	$3.70	'
Exercisable, December 31, 2013	'255 days	'
Exercised	-194,615	'
Exercised (in Dollars per share)	$6.17	'

Note_10_Stock_Based_Compensati7

Note 10 - Stock Based Compensation (Details) - Stock-based Compensation Information (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Millions, except Per Share data, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012	Dec. 31, 2011
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]	'	'	'
Per share intrinsic value of non-vested stock granted (in Dollars per share)	$43.13	$23.82	$13.58
Total intrinsic value of stock options exercised (millions)	$8.70	$7.20	$1.50
Fair value of non-vested stock that vested during the period (millions)	8.4	3.5	0.7
Stock-based compensation recognized in results of operations, as a component of selling, general and administrative expense - excludes compensation expense related to an option granted to one of our executives. See Note 16. (millions)	6.6	3.1	2.3
Tax benefit recognized in Consolidated Statements of Operations (millions)	2.3	1	0.7
Cash received from options exercised and shares purchased under all share-based arrangements (millions)	5.2	8.8	5.8
Tax deduction realized related to stock options exercised (millions)	$6.50	$4.10	$0.90
2009 ESPP [Member] | Per Share Discount [Member]	'	'	'
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]	'	'	'
Weighted average per share discount for compensation expense recognized under the 2009 ESPP (in Dollars per share)	$8.81	$4.29	$2.56

Note_11_Derivative_Financial_I2

Note 11 - Derivative Financial Instruments (Details) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Millions, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2013
Note 11 - Derivative Financial Instruments (Details) [Line Items]	'
Cash Flow Hedge Gain (Loss) to be Reclassified within Twelve Months (in Dollars)	$1.20
London Interbank Offered Rate (LIBOR) [Member] | Interest Rate Swap [Member]	'
Note 11 - Derivative Financial Instruments (Details) [Line Items]	'
Derivative, Variable Interest Rate	0.17%
Interest Rate Swap [Member]	'
Note 11 - Derivative Financial Instruments (Details) [Line Items]	'
Derivative Liability, Notional Amount (in Dollars)	$25
Derivative, Maturity Date	15-Jun-16
Derivative, Fixed Interest Rate	5.59%

Note_11_Derivative_Financial_I3

Note 11 - Derivative Financial Instruments (Details) - Fair Value of Derivative Instruments in Consolidated Balance Sheets (Designated as Hedging Instrument [Member], USD $)	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified
Derivatives, Fair Value [Line Items]	'	'
Interest rate swap contracts	$2,900	$4,679
Accounts Payable and Accrued Liabilities [Member]	'	'
Derivatives, Fair Value [Line Items]	'	'
Interest rate swap contracts	1,215	1,839
Other Noncurrent Liabilities [Member]	'	'
Derivatives, Fair Value [Line Items]	'	'
Interest rate swap contracts	$1,685	$2,840

Note_11_Derivative_Financial_I4

Note 11 - Derivative Financial Instruments (Details) - Effect of Derivative Instruments on Consolidated Statements of Operations (Floor Plan Interest Expense [Member], USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012	Dec. 31, 2011
Floor Plan Interest Expense [Member]	'	'	'
Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss) [Line Items]	'	'	'
Amount of Gain/(Loss) Recognized in OCI (Effective Portion)	$1,005	$1,655	($1,343)
Amount of Gain/(Loss) Reclassified from Accumulated OCI into Income (Effective Portion)	-740	-1,413	-1,899
Amount of Gain/(Loss) Recognized in Income on Derivative (Ineffective Portion and Amount Excluded from Effectiveness Testing)	($1,235)	($2,900)	($1,587)

Note_12_Fair_Value_Measurement2

Note 12 - Fair Value Measurements (Details) - Assets and Liabilities Measured at Fair Value (Fair Value, Inputs, Level 2 [Member], USD $)	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified
Fair Value, Inputs, Level 2 [Member]	'	'
Measured on a recurring basis:	'	'
Derivative contracts, net	($2,900)	($4,679)

Note_12_Fair_Value_Measurement3

Note 12 - Fair Value Measurements (Details) - Fair Value of Fixed Rate Debt (USD $)	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified
Fair Value of Fixed Rate Debt [Abstract]	'	'
Carrying value	$132,616	$130,469
Fair value	$126,786	$134,688

Note_13_Income_Taxes_Details

Note 13 - Income Taxes (Details) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012	Dec. 31, 2011
Note 13 - Income Taxes (Details) [Line Items]	'	'	'
Income Taxes Receivable	$3,400,000	$7,300,000	'
Deferred Tax Assets, Valuation Allowance	11,087,000	11,641,000	'
Valuation Allowance, Deferred Tax Asset, Change in Amount	-600,000	'	'
Income Tax Expense (Benefit)	60,574,000	49,062,000	33,060,000
Deferred Tax Assets, Operating Loss Carryforwards, State and Local	900,000	'	'
Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation, at Federal Statutory Income Tax Rate, Percent	35.00%	35.00%	35.00%
State and Local Jurisdiction [Member]	'	'	'
Note 13 - Income Taxes (Details) [Line Items]	'	'	'
Operating Loss Carryforwards, Valuation Allowance	900,000	'	'
State and Local Jurisdiction [Member] | Minimum [Member]	'	'	'
Note 13 - Income Taxes (Details) [Line Items]	'	'	'
Open Tax Year	'2009	'	'
State and Local Jurisdiction [Member] | Maximum [Member]	'	'	'
Note 13 - Income Taxes (Details) [Line Items]	'	'	'
Open Tax Year	'2013	'	'
Internal Revenue Service (IRS) [Member] | Minimum [Member]	'	'	'
Note 13 - Income Taxes (Details) [Line Items]	'	'	'
Open Tax Year	'2010	'	'
Internal Revenue Service (IRS) [Member] | Maximum [Member]	'	'	'
Note 13 - Income Taxes (Details) [Line Items]	'	'	'
Open Tax Year	'2013	'	'
Capital Loss Carryforward [Member]	'	'	'
Note 13 - Income Taxes (Details) [Line Items]	'	'	'
Income Tax Expense (Benefit)	($1,500,000)	'	'

Note_13_Income_Taxes_Details_I

Note 13 - Income Taxes (Details) - Income Tax Provision (Benefit) from Continuing Operations (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012	Dec. 31, 2011
Deferred:	'	'	'
	$14,477	$14,172	$8,093
Total	60,574	49,062	33,060
Continuing Operations [Member]	'	'	'
Current:	'	'	'
Federal	46,727	31,438	21,779
State	5,539	3,626	3,561
	52,266	35,064	25,340
Deferred:	'	'	'
Federal	9,010	10,888	7,046
State	-702	3,110	674
	8,308	13,998	7,720
Total	$60,574	$49,062	$33,060

Note_13_Income_Taxes_Details_D

Note 13 - Income Taxes (Details) - Deferred Tax Assets and Liabilities (USD $)	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified
Deferred tax assets:	'	'
Deferred revenue and cancellation reserves	$8,857	$7,597
Allowances and accruals, including state tax carryforward amounts	31,060	21,340
Interest on derivatives	1,113	1,796
Credits and other	1,937	'
Goodwill	10,331	18,139
Capital loss carryforward	10,893	12,248
Valuation allowance	-11,087	-11,641
Total deferred tax assets	53,104	49,479
Deferred tax liabilities:	'	'
Inventories	-6,722	-4,684
Property and equipment, principally due to differences in depreciation	-32,563	-22,484
Prepaid expenses and other	-2,015	-1,356
Total deferred tax liabilities	-41,300	-28,524
Total	$11,804	$20,955

Note_13_Income_Taxes_Details_T

Note 13 - Income Taxes (Details) - Tax Rate Reconciliation (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012	Dec. 31, 2011
Tax Rate Reconciliation [Abstract]	'	'	'
Federal tax provision at statutory rate	$58,026	$44,723	$30,895
State taxes, net of federal income tax benefit	3,141	4,772	3,021
Non-deductible expenses	1,010	618	208
Permanent differences related to the employee stock purchase program	55	52	105
Net change in valuation allowance	-554	-1,200	-346
General business credits	-440	'	'
Other	-664	97	-823
Income tax provision	$60,574	$49,062	$33,060

Note_14_Acquisitions_Details

Note 14 - Acquisitions (Details) (USD $)	1 Months Ended	12 Months Ended
In Millions, unless otherwise specified	Jul. 31, 2011	Dec. 31, 2013
Business Combinations [Abstract]	'	'
Business Combination, Pro Forma Information, Revenue of Acquiree since Acquisition Date, Actual	'	$64.70
Payments to Acquire Businesses, Gross	$5.10	'

Note_14_Acquisitions_Details_S

Note 14 - Acquisitions (Details) - Summary of Acquisition (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012	Dec. 31, 2011
Note 14 - Acquisitions (Details) - Summary of Acquisition [Line Items]	'	'	'
Cash paid, net of cash acquired	$81,105	$44,716	$60,485
Inventories	30,624	17,541	'
Franchise value	8,770	5,174	'
Property, plant and equipment	24,741	11,097	'
Real estate lease reserves	-221	'	'
Other assets	264	110	'
	63,641	31,006	'
Goodwill	17,464	13,710	'
	81,105	44,716	'
Capital lease obligations	-37	-2,609	'
Reserves [Member]	'	'	'
Note 14 - Acquisitions (Details) - Summary of Acquisition [Line Items]	'	'	'
Other noncurrent liabilities	-344	'	'
Other Liabilities [Member]	'	'	'
Note 14 - Acquisitions (Details) - Summary of Acquisition [Line Items]	'	'	'
Other noncurrent liabilities	($156)	($307)	'

Note_14_Acquisitions_Details_P

Note 14 - Acquisitions (Details) - Pro Forma (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Thousands, except Per Share data, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012	Dec. 31, 2011
Pro Forma [Abstract]	'	'	'
Revenue (in Dollars)	$4,144,945	$3,571,853	$2,789,436
Income from continuing operations, net of tax (in Dollars)	$105,783	$81,531	$56,904
Basic income per share from continuing operations, net of tax	$4.10	$3.17	$2.17
Diluted income per share from continuing operations, net of tax	$4.04	$3.12	$2.13

Note_15_Discontinued_Operation2

Note 15 - Discontinued Operations (Details) - Assets and Related Liabilities Held for Sale (USD $)	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified
Long Lived Assets Held-for-sale [Line Items]	'	'
Assets held for sale	$11,526	$12,579
Floor plan notes payable	6,271	8,347
Inventory [Member]	'	'
Long Lived Assets Held-for-sale [Line Items]	'	'
Assets held for sale	8,260	'
Property, Plant and Equipment [Member]	'	'
Long Lived Assets Held-for-sale [Line Items]	'	'
Assets held for sale	1,194	'
Intangible Assets [Member]	'	'
Long Lived Assets Held-for-sale [Line Items]	'	'
Assets held for sale	$2,072	'

Note_15_Discontinued_Operation3

Note 15 - Discontinued Operations (Details) - Financial Information of Discontinued Operations (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012	Dec. 31, 2011
Income Statement, Balance Sheet and Additional Disclosures by Disposal Groups, Including Discontinued Operations [Line Items]	'	'	'
Floor plan interest	$12,373	$12,816	$10,364
Other interest	8,350	9,621	12,878
Revenue	38,978	82,150	131,380
Pre-tax gain from discontinued operations	1,310	2,186	1,516
Discontinued operations gain loss	'	-621	4,396
	1,310	1,565	5,912
Income tax expense	-524	-598	-2,262
Income from discontinued operations, net of income tax expense	786	967	3,650
Goodwill and other intangible assets disposed of	'	169	712
Goodwill and Other Intangible Assets [Member]	'	'	'
Income Statement, Balance Sheet and Additional Disclosures by Disposal Groups, Including Discontinued Operations [Line Items]	'	'	'
Discontinued operations gain loss	'	-169	3,168
Property, Plant and Equipment [Member]	'	'	'
Income Statement, Balance Sheet and Additional Disclosures by Disposal Groups, Including Discontinued Operations [Line Items]	'	'	'
Discontinued operations gain loss	'	-299	1,357
Inventory [Member]	'	'	'
Income Statement, Balance Sheet and Additional Disclosures by Disposal Groups, Including Discontinued Operations [Line Items]	'	'	'
Discontinued operations gain loss	'	-82	-88
Other [Member]	'	'	'
Income Statement, Balance Sheet and Additional Disclosures by Disposal Groups, Including Discontinued Operations [Line Items]	'	'	'
Discontinued operations gain loss	'	-71	-41
Discontinued Operations [Member]	'	'	'
Income Statement, Balance Sheet and Additional Disclosures by Disposal Groups, Including Discontinued Operations [Line Items]	'	'	'
Floor plan interest	117	217	520
Other interest	21	69	108
Total interest	$138	$286	$628

Note_16_Related_Party_Transact1

Note 16 - Related Party Transactions (Details) (USD $)	12 Months Ended		9 Months Ended		3 Months Ended	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2012	Dec. 31, 2011	Dec. 31, 2012	Mar. 27, 2012	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012	Dec. 31, 2013	Mar. 27, 2012
			Sale of Nissan, Volkswagen and BMW Stores [Member]	Sale of Nissan, Volkswagen and BMW Stores [Member]	Sale of Land [Member]	Remaining 20% Interest [Member]	Remaining 20% Interest [Member]	Remaining 20% Interest [Member]
Note 16 - Related Party Transactions (Details) [Line Items]	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'
Related Party Transaction, Sale Ownership Percentage	'	'	'	80.00%	'	'	'	'
Related Party Transaction, Amounts of Transaction	'	'	$9,600,000	'	$4,200,000	'	'	'
Proceeds from Divestiture of Businesses, Net of Cash Divested	6,618,000	23,838,000	2,900,000	'	'	'	'	'
Noncash or Part Noncash Divestiture, Amount of Consideration Received	6,712,000	1,784,000	6,700,000	'	'	'	'	'
Gain (Loss) on Disposition of Business	'	'	700,000	'	'	'	'	'
Agreement, Purchase Price Intangible Assets	'	'	1,200,000	'	'	'	'	'
Equity Method Investment, Ownership Percentage	'	'	'	20.00%	'	'	'	'
Equity Method Investments	'	'	'	'	'	'	1,200,000	800,000
Income (Loss) from Equity Method Investments	'	'	'	'	'	200,000	'	'
Gain (Loss) on Disposition of Assets	'	'	'	'	$2,500,000	'	'	'

Note_17_Net_Income_Per_Share_o2

Note 17 - Net Income Per Share of Class A and Class B Common Stock (Details) - Earnings Per Share Reconciliation (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Thousands, except Per Share data, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012	Dec. 31, 2011
Numerator:	'	'	'
Income from continuing operations applicable to common stockholders	$105,214	$79,395	$55,210
Denominator:	'	'	'
Weighted average number of shares outstanding used to calculate basic income per share (in Shares)	25,805	25,696	26,230
Weighted average number of shares outstanding used to calculate diluted income per share (in Shares)	26,191	26,170	26,664
Basic income from continuing operations per share applicable to common stockholders (in Dollars per share)	$4.08	$3.09	$2.10
Diluted income from continuing operations per share available to common stockholders (in Dollars per share)	$4.02	$3.03	$2.07
Employee Stock Option [Member] | Common Class A [Member]	'	'	'
Antidilutive Securities:	'	'	'
Shares issuable pursuant to stock options not included since they were antidilutive (in Shares)	16	45	280
Common Class A [Member] | Basic [Member]	'	'	'
Numerator:	'	'	'
Distributed income applicable to common stockholders	-9,061	-10,497	-5,844
Numerator:	'	'	'
Distributed income applicable to common stockholders	9,061	10,497	5,844
Common Class A [Member] | Distributed [Member]	'	'	'
Numerator:	'	'	'
Reallocation of income as a result of conversion of dilutive stock options	15	28	15
Reallocation of income due to conversion of Class B to Class A	1,009	1,541	963
Common Class A [Member] | Diluted [Member]	'	'	'
Numerator:	'	'	'
Distributed income applicable to common stockholders	-10,085	-12,066	-6,822
Numerator:	'	'	'
Distributed income applicable to common stockholders	10,085	12,066	6,822
Common Class A [Member] | Undistributed [Member]	'	'	'
Numerator:	'	'	'
Reallocation of income as a result of conversion of dilutive stock options	142	159	113
Reallocation of income due to conversion of Class B to Class A	9,516	8,598	6,827
Common Class A [Member]	'	'	'
Numerator:	'	'	'
Income from continuing operations applicable to common stockholders	94,532	69,069	47,292
Undistributed income from continuing operations applicable to common stockholders	85,471	58,572	41,448
Denominator:	'	'	'
Weighted average number of shares outstanding used to calculate basic income per share (in Shares)	23,185	22,354	22,468
Weighted average number of shares from stock options (in Shares)	386	474	434
Conversion of Class B to Class A (in Shares)	2,620	3,342	3,762
Weighted average number of shares outstanding used to calculate diluted income per share (in Shares)	26,191	26,170	26,664
Basic income from continuing operations per share applicable to common stockholders (in Dollars per share)	$4.08	$3.09	$2.10
Basic distributed income per share applicable to common stockholders (in Dollars per share)	($0.39)	($0.47)	($0.26)
Basic undistributed income from continuing operations per share applicable to common stockholders (in Dollars per share)	$3.69	$2.62	$1.84
Diluted income from continuing operations per share available to common stockholders (in Dollars per share)	$4.02	$3.03	$2.07
Diluted distributed income from continuing operations per share applicable to common stockholders (in Dollars per share)	($0.39)	($0.47)	($0.26)
Diluted undistributed income from continuing operations per share applicable to common stockholders (in Dollars per share)	$3.63	$2.56	$1.81
Numerator:	'	'	'
Diluted undistributed income from continuing operations applicable to common stockholders	95,129	67,329	48,388
Common Class B [Member] | Basic [Member]	'	'	'
Numerator:	'	'	'
Distributed income applicable to common stockholders	-1,024	-1,569	-978
Numerator:	'	'	'
Distributed income applicable to common stockholders	1,024	1,569	978
Common Class B [Member] | Distributed [Member]	'	'	'
Numerator:	'	'	'
Reallocation of income as a result of conversion of dilutive stock options	-15	-28	-15
Common Class B [Member] | Diluted [Member]	'	'	'
Numerator:	'	'	'
Distributed income applicable to common stockholders	-1,009	-1,541	-963
Numerator:	'	'	'
Distributed income applicable to common stockholders	1,009	1,541	963
Common Class B [Member] | Undistributed [Member]	'	'	'
Numerator:	'	'	'
Reallocation of income as a result of conversion of dilutive stock options	-142	-159	-113
Common Class B [Member]	'	'	'
Numerator:	'	'	'
Income from continuing operations applicable to common stockholders	10,682	10,326	7,918
Undistributed income from continuing operations applicable to common stockholders	9,658	8,757	6,940
Denominator:	'	'	'
Weighted average number of shares outstanding used to calculate basic income per share (in Shares)	2,620	3,342	3,762
Weighted average number of shares outstanding used to calculate diluted income per share (in Shares)	2,620	3,342	3,762
Basic income from continuing operations per share applicable to common stockholders (in Dollars per share)	$4.08	$3.09	$2.10
Basic distributed income per share applicable to common stockholders (in Dollars per share)	($0.39)	($0.47)	($0.26)
Basic undistributed income from continuing operations per share applicable to common stockholders (in Dollars per share)	$3.69	$2.62	$1.84
Diluted income from continuing operations per share available to common stockholders (in Dollars per share)	$4.02	$3.03	$2.07
Diluted distributed income from continuing operations per share applicable to common stockholders (in Dollars per share)	($0.39)	($0.47)	($0.26)
Diluted undistributed income from continuing operations per share applicable to common stockholders (in Dollars per share)	$3.63	$2.56	$1.81
Numerator:	'	'	'
Diluted undistributed income from continuing operations applicable to common stockholders	$9,516	$8,598	$6,827

Note_18_Subsequent_Events_Deta

Note 18 - Subsequent Events (Details) (USD $)	1 Months Ended			0 Months Ended	1 Months Ended
In Millions, except Per Share data, unless otherwise specified	Jul. 31, 2011	Jan. 31, 2014	Feb. 28, 2014	Feb. 28, 2014	Mar. 07, 2014
		Subsequent Event [Member]	Subsequent Event [Member]	Subsequent Event [Member]	Subsequent Event [Member]
		Island Honda,Kahului Hawaii [Member]	Stockton Volkswagen,Stockton California [Member]
Note 18 - Subsequent Events (Details) [Line Items]	'	'	'	'	'
Common Stock, Dividends, Per Share, Declared (in Dollars per share)	'	'	'	$0.13	'
Dividends, Common Stock, Cash	'	'	'	'	$3.40
Business Combination, Consideration Transferred	'	9.5	3.6	'	'
Payments to Acquire Businesses, Gross	5.1	5.7	'	'	'
Business Combination, Consideration Transferred, Liabilities Incurred	'	$3.80	'	'	'