| Form 8-K Earnings Release Document | Jul. 25, 2024 |
| Cover [Abstract] | |
| Document Type | 8-K |
| Document Period End Date | Jul. 25, 2024 |
| Entity Registrant Name | LKQ CORPORATION |
| Entity Incorporation, State or Country Code | DE |
| Entity File Number | 001-42002 |
| Entity Tax Identification Number | 36-4215970 |
| Entity Address, Address Line One | 5846 Crossings Boulevard |
| Entity Address, City or Town | Antioch |
| Entity Address, State or Province | TN |
| Entity Address, Postal Zip Code | 37013 |
| City Area Code | 615 |
| Local Phone Number | 781-5200 |
| Written Communications | false |
| Soliciting Material | false |
| Pre-commencement Tender Offer | false |
| Pre-commencement Issuer Tender Offer | false |
| Entity Emerging Growth Company | false |
| Entity Central Index Key | 0001065696 |
| Amendment Flag | false |
| Common Stock, par value $.01 per share | |
| Entity Listings [Line Items] | |
| Title of 12(b) Security | Common Stock, par value $.01 per share |
| Trading Symbol | LKQ |
| Security Exchange Name | NASDAQ |
| Euro Notes (2031) | |
| Entity Listings [Line Items] | |
| Title of 12(b) Security | 4.125% Notes due 2031 |
| Trading Symbol | LKQ31 |
| Security Exchange Name | NASDAQ |
