Noncontrolling Interests (Details) (USD $) In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2012		Dec. 31, 2011
Noncontrolling Interest [Line Items]
Noncontrolling interest	$ 94,275		$ 90,408
Hydrogear [Member]
Noncontrolling Interest [Line Items]
Noncontrolling interest	25,640		23,720
SauershanghaiHydraulicTransmissionCo [Member]
Noncontrolling Interest [Line Items]
Noncontrolling interest	27,710		31,097
SauerDanfossDaikinLTD [Member]
Noncontrolling Interest [Line Items]
Noncontrolling interest	22,031	[1]	19,937	[1]
TSDIntegratedControlsLLC [Member]
Noncontrolling Interest [Line Items]
Noncontrolling interest	459	[2]	(456)	[2]
DaikinSauerDanfossMfgLtd [Member]
Noncontrolling Interest [Line Items]
Noncontrolling interest	18,435		16,110
Noncontrolling Interest [Member]
Noncontrolling Interest [Line Items]
Noncontrolling interest	$ 94,275		$ 90,408

[1] On January 1, 2013 the shares of the noncontrolling interest partner were redeemed in connection with the joint venture restructuring discussed in Note 2. The operating activities of Sauer-Danfoss-Daikin, Ltd. were transferred to Daikin-Sauer-Danfoss Manufacturing, Ltd. on that same day.

[2] In connection with the wind-down of the TSD joint venture discussed in Note 2 the noncontrolling interest partner had received distribution of assets in excess of their interest in the joint venture. There will be a settlement between the joint venture partners in 2013.