| Document and Entity Information | Dec. 02, 2020 |
| Cover [Abstract] | |
| Amendment Flag | false |
| Entity Central Index Key | 0001580608 |
| Document Type | 8-K |
| Document Period End Date | Dec. 2, 2020 |
| Entity Registrant Name | SANTANDER CONSUMER USA HOLDINGS INC. |
| Entity Incorporation State Country Code | DE |
| Entity File Number | 001-36270 |
| Entity Tax Identification Number | 32-0414408 |
| Entity Address, Address Line One | 1601 Elm St. |
| Entity Address, Address Line Two | Suite #800 |
| Entity Address, City or Town | Dallas |
| Entity Address, State or Province | TX |
| Entity Address, Postal Zip Code | 75201 |
| City Area Code | (214) |
| Local Phone Number | 634-1110 |
| Written Communications | false |
| Soliciting Material | false |
| Pre Commencement Tender Offer | false |
| Pre Commencement Issuer Tender Offer | false |
| Security 12b Title | Common Stock, $0.01 par value per share |
| Trading Symbol | SC |
| Security Exchange Name | NYSE |
| Entity Emerging Growth Company | false |
