v2.4.0.6
Document And Entity Information (USD $)
9 Months Ended
Sep. 30, 2011
Nov. 08, 2011
Jun. 30, 2011
Document and Entity Information [Abstract]      
Entity Registrant Name CONSUMER PORTFOLIO SERVICES INC    
Document Type 10-Q    
Current Fiscal Year End Date --12-31    
Entity Common Stock, Shares Outstanding   19,678,773  
Entity Public Float     $ 18,740,264
Amendment Flag false    
Entity Central Index Key 0000889609    
Entity Current Reporting Status Yes    
Entity Voluntary Filers No    
Entity Filer Category Smaller Reporting Company    
Entity Well-known Seasoned Issuer No    
Document Period End Date Sep. 30, 2011    
Document Fiscal Year Focus 2011    
Document Fiscal Period Focus Q3