Leases not yet commenced (Details) $ in Millions	Jun. 30, 2019 USD ($)
Leases not yet commenced [Line Items]
Lessee, Operating Lease, Lease Not yet Commenced	$ 23.0

Future lease payments for an operating lease expected to commence in the future

No definition available.

Name:	axl_LesseeOperatingLeaseLeaseNotyetCommenced
Namespace Prefix:	axl_
Data Type:	xbrli:monetaryItemType
Balance Type:	credit
Period Type:	instant