| Document and Entity Information | Jan. 26, 2022 |
| Cover [Abstract] | |
| Document Type | 8-K |
| Amendment Flag | false |
| Document Period End Date | Jan. 26, 2022 |
| Current Fiscal Year End Date | --03-31 |
| Entity Registrant Name | MOTORCAR PARTS AMERICA INC |
| Entity Incorporation, State or Country Code | NY |
| Entity File Number | 001-33861 |
| Entity Tax Identification Number | 11-2153962 |
| Entity Address, Address Line One | 2929 California Street |
| Entity Address, City or Town | Torrance |
| Entity Address, State or Province | CA |
| Entity Address, Postal Zip Code | 90503 |
| City Area Code | 310 |
| Local Phone Number | 212-7910 |
| Written Communications | false |
| Soliciting Material | false |
| Pre-commencement Tender Offer | false |
| Pre-commencement Issuer Tender Offer | false |
| Entity Emerging Growth Company | false |
| Entity Central Index Key | 0000918251 |
| Title of 12(b) Security | Common Stock, par value $0.01 per share |
| Trading Symbol | MPAA |
| Security Exchange Name | NASDAQ |
