v2.4.0.6
Document and Entity Information
6 Months Ended
Jun. 30, 2012
Jul. 24, 2012
Document And Entity Information    
Entity Registrant Name CONSUMER PORTFOLIO SERVICES INC  
Entity Central Index Key 0000889609  
Document Type 10-Q  
Document Period End Date Jun. 30, 2012  
Amendment Flag false  
Current Fiscal Year End Date --12-31  
Is Entity a Well-known Seasoned Issuer? No  
Is Entity a Voluntary Filer? No  
Is Entity's Reporting Status Current? Yes  
Entity Filer Category Smaller Reporting Company  
Entity Common Stock, Shares Outstanding   19,537,164
Document Fiscal Period Focus Q2  
Document Fiscal Year Focus 2012