| Document and Entity Information | Feb. 20, 2020 |
| Cover [Abstract] | |
| Entity Registrant Name | LEAR CORP |
| Amendment Flag | false |
| Entity Central Index Key | 0000842162 |
| Document Type | 8-K |
| Document Period End Date | Feb. 20, 2020 |
| Entity Incorporation State Country Code | DE |
| Entity File Number | 1-11311 |
| Entity Tax Identification Number | 13-3386776 |
| Entity Address, Address Line One | 21557 Telegraph Road |
| Entity Address, City or Town | Southfield |
| Entity Address, State or Province | MI |
| Entity Address, Postal Zip Code | 48033 |
| City Area Code | (248) |
| Local Phone Number | 447-1500 |
| Written Communications | false |
| Soliciting Material | false |
| Pre Commencement Tender Offer | false |
| Pre Commencement Issuer Tender Offer | false |
| Security 12b Title | Common stock, par value $0.01 |
| Trading Symbol | LEA |
| Security Exchange Name | NYSE |
| Entity Emerging Growth Company | false |
