CONSOLIDATED COMPREHENSIVE INCOME (LOSS) STATEMENTS - USD ($) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2017	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015
Statement of Comprehensive Income [Abstract]
Net income (loss)	$ (10,323)	$ 20,384	$ 29,173
Other comprehensive income (loss):
Change in foreign currency translation adjustment	6,222	(7,022)	(11,353)
Total comprehensive income (loss)	(4,101)	13,362	17,820
Comprehensive income (loss) attributable to noncontrolling interest	0	30	(1)
Comprehensive income (loss) attributable to Universal Electronics Inc.	$ (4,101)	$ 13,332	$ 17,821