Debt Disclosure [Abstract] Schedule of Long-term Debt Instruments [Table] Schedule of Long-term Debt Instruments [Table] Long-term Debt, Type [Axis] Long-term Debt, Type [Axis] Long-term Debt, Type [Domain] Long-term Debt, Type [Domain] Senior unsecured notes [Member] Senior Debt Obligations [Member] Debt facilities [Member] Debt Facility [Member] Debt Facility [Member] Secured credit facilities [Member] Secured Debt [Member] Other Debt Obligations [Member] Other Debt Obligations [Member] Segments [Axis] Segments [Axis] Segment [Domain] Segments [Domain] Automotive Segment [Member] Automotive Segment [Member] Automotive Segment [Member] Energy Segment [Member] Energy Segment [Member] Energy Segment [Member] Gaming Segment [Member] Gaming Segment [Member] Gaming Segment [Member] Railcar Segment [Member] Railcar Segment [Member] Railcar Segment [Member] Food Packaging Segment [Member] Food Packaging Segment [Member] Food Packaging Segment [Member] Debt Instrument [Axis] Debt Instrument [Axis] Debt Instrument, Name [Domain] Debt Instrument, Name [Domain] 2022 Notes [Member] 2022 Notes [Member] 2022 Notes [Member] 2020 Notes [Member] 2020 Notes [Member] 2020 Notes [Member] 2019 Notes [Member] 2019 Notes [Member] 2019 Notes [Member] 2017 Notes [Member] 2017 Notes [Member] 2017 Notes [Member] Debt Instrument [Line Items] Debt Instrument [Line Items] Debt Debt and Capital Lease Obligations Financial Instruments [Abstract] Financial Instruments [Abstract] Derivative [Table] Derivative [Table] Derivative Instrument [Axis] Derivative Instrument [Axis] Primary underlying risk: Derivative Contract [Domain] Put Option [Member] Put Option [Member] Legal Entity [Axis] Legal Entity [Axis] Entity [Domain] Entity [Domain] Investment Funds [Member] Investment Funds [Member] The Onshore Fund (Icahn Partners LP) and the Offshore Master Funds are collectively referred to as the “Investment Funds". The “Offshore Master Funds” consist of (i) Icahn Partners Master Fund LP, or Master Fund I, (ii) Icahn Partners Master Fund II LP, or Master Fund II and (iii) Icahn Partners Master Fund III LP, or Master Fund III. Investment Segment [Member] Investment Segment [Member] Investment Segment [Member] Derivative [Line Items] Derivative [Line Items] Maximum payout amount relating to certain put options Open Option Contract Written, Potential Payment Amount The maximum payout of the open option contracts written for the investment. Maximum payout amount relating to certain covered put options on existing short positions Open Option Contracts Written, Covered Put Options on Existing Short Positions Open Option Contracts Written, Covered Put Options on Existing Short Positions Unrealized gains relating to certain put options Unrealized Gain (Loss) on Derivatives Fair value derivative instruments with credit risk related contingent features in a liability position Credit Risk Derivative Liabilities, at Fair Value Collateral for derivative positions Collateral Already Posted, Aggregate Fair Value Statement of Partners' Capital [Abstract] Statement [Table] Statement [Table] Partner Type [Axis] Partner Type [Axis] Partner Type of Partners' Capital Account, Name [Domain] Partner Type of Partners' Capital Account, Name [Domain] General partner General Partner [Member] Limited partners Limited Partner [Member] Total Partners' Equity Parent [Member] Non-controlling Interests Noncontrolling Interest [Member] Icahn Enterprises Holdings [Member] Icahn Enterprises Holdings [Member] Icahn Enterprises Holdings [Member] Statement [Line Items] Statement [Line Items] Increase (Decrease) in Partners' Capital [Roll Forward] Increase (Decrease) in Partners' Capital [Roll Forward] Equity Stockholders' Equity, Including Portion Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest Net loss Net Income (Loss), Including Portion Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest Other comprehensive income Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax Partnership distributions Partners' Capital Account, Distributions Partnership contribution Partners' Capital Account, Contributions Investment segment contributions Investment Management Contributions Contributions from non-controlling investors in the Private Funds. Dividends and distributions to non-controlling interests in subsidiaries Payments to Noncontrolling Interests Proceeds from subsidiary equity offering Noncontrolling Interest, Increase from Subsidiary Equity Issuance Acquisitions Partners' Capital Account, Acquisitions LP unit issuance Stock Issued During Period, Value, Acquisitions Changes in subsidiary equity and other Stockholders' Equity, Other Equity Segment Reporting [Abstract] Segment Reporting Segment Reporting Disclosure [Text Block] Related Party Transactions [Abstract] Schedule of Related Party Transactions, by Related Party [Table] Schedule of Related Party Transactions, by Related Party [Table] Related Party [Axis] Related Party [Axis] Related Party [Domain] Related Party [Domain] Related Party Transaction [Line Items] Related Party Transaction [Line Items] Related Party Transactions Related Party Transactions Disclosure [Text Block] Financial Instruments Financial Instruments Disclosure [Text Block] ARI Revolving Loan ARI Revolving Loan [Member] ARI Revolving Loan [Member] ARL Term Loan Facility [Member] ARL Term Loan Facility [Member] ARL Term Loan Facility [Member] Line of credit facility borrowing capacity Line of Credit Facility, Maximum Borrowing Capacity Line of credit facility amount outstanding Line of Credit Facility, Fair Value of Amount Outstanding Line of credit facility unused borrowing availability Line of Credit Facility, Remaining Borrowing Capacity Railcars pledged as collateral Pledged Assets, Other, Not Separately Reported on Statement of Financial Position Debt Debt Instrument, Face Amount Amount of debt repaid Repayments of Debt Commitments and Contingencies Disclosure [Abstract] Schedule of Significant Accounting Policies [Table] Schedule of Significant Accounting Policies [Table] Schedule of Significant Accounting Policies [Table] Schedule of Significant Accounting Policies [Line Items] Schedule of Significant Accounting Policies [Line Items] Schedule of Significant Accounting Policies [Line Items] Accounting Policies [Abstract] Schedule of Variable Interest Entities [Table Text Block] Schedule of Variable Interest Entities [Table Text Block] Organization, Consolidation and Presentation of Financial Statements [Abstract] Entities [Table] Entities [Table] Balance Sheet Location [Axis] Balance Sheet Location [Axis] Balance Sheet Location [Domain] Balance Sheet Location [Domain] Cash and Cash Equivalents [Member] Cash and Cash Equivalents [Member] Property, Plant and Equipment [Member] Property, Plant and Equipment [Member] Inventories Inventories [Member] Goodwill Goodwill [Member] Intangible assets, net Intangible assets, net [Member] Intangible assets, net [Member] Other assets Other Assets [Member] Accounts payable, accrued expenses and other liabilities [Member] Accounts payable, accrued expenses and other liabilities [Member] Accounts payable, accrued expenses and other liabilities [Member] Debt Debt [Member] Icahn Enterprises G.P. [Member] Icahn Enterprises G.P. [Member] Icahn Enterprises G.P. [Member] Pep Boys [Member] Pep Boys [Member] Pep Boys [Member] Other acquisition [Member] Other acquisition [Member] Other acquisition [Member] CVR Nitrogen [Member] CVR Nitrogen [Member] CVR Nitrogen [Member] Trump [Member] Trump [Member] Trump [Member] Members or Partners [Axis] Members or Partners [Axis] Members or Partners, including managing members or members or general partners or limited partners [Axis] Partner Name [Domain] Partner Name [Domain] Partner Name [Domain] Icahn Enterprises G.P. [Member] Mr. Icahn and his affiliates [Member] Principal Owners and Affiliates [Member] Mr. Icahn and certain other entities beneficially owned by Mr. Icahn Restricted Cash and Cash Equivalents [Axis] Restricted Cash and Cash Equivalents [Axis] Cash and Cash Equivalents [Domain] Cash and Cash Equivalents [Domain] Restricted cash [Member] Restricted cash [Member] Restricted cash Entity Information [Line Items] Entity Information [Line Items] Percentage of equity ownership in operating subsidiary Subsidiary of Limited Liability Company or Limited Partnership, Ownership Interest General partner ownership percentage in Icahn Enterprises Limited Liability Company (LLC) or Limited Partnership (LP), Managing Member or General Partner, Ownership Interest General partner ownership interest in Icahn Enterprises Holdings Subsidiary of Limited Liability Company (LLC) or Limited Partnership (LP), Managing Member or General Partner, Ownership Interest Subsidiary of Limited Liability Company (LLC) or Limited Partnership (LP), Managing Member or General Partner, Ownership Interest Aggregate general partner ownership interest of parent and operating subsidiary Limited Liability Company (LLC) or Limited Partnership (LP), Managing Member or General Partner, Aggregate Ownership interest of Parent and Holding Company Subsidiaries Limited Liability Company (LLC) or Limited Partnership (LP), Managing Member or General Partner, Aggregate Ownership interest of Parent and Holding Company Subsidiaries Affiliate ownership interest in Icahn Enterprises Limited Liability Company (LLC) or Limited Partnership (LP), Members or Limited Partners, Ownership Interest Consideration transferred to acquire business Business Combination, Consideration Transferred Fair value of equity interest in acquiree just prior to obtaining a controlling interest Business Combination, Step Acquisition, Equity Interest in Acquiree, Fair Value Gain on remeasuring fair value of equity interest in acquiree just prior to obtaining a controlling interest Business Combination, Step Acquisition, Equity Interest in Acquiree, Remeasurement Gain Recognized net tangible assets from business combination business combinations, recognized identifiable assets, net tangible assets business combinations, recognized identifiable assets, net tangible assets Recognized goodwill and other intangible net assets from business combination Business combination, recognized goodwill and other intangible net assets Business combination, recognized goodwill and other intangible net assets Recognized unfavorable lease intangible liability from business combination Business combination, unfavorable lease intangible liability acquired Business combination, unfavorable lease intangible liability acquired Revenue of acquiree since acquisition date included in consolidated results Business Combination, Pro Forma Information, Revenue of Acquiree since Acquisition Date, Actual Net income (loss) of acquiree attributable to Icahn Enterprises since acquisition date included in consolidated results Business Combination, Pro Forma Information, Earnings or Loss of Acquiree attributable to parent since Acquisition Date, Actual Business Combination, Pro Forma Information, Earnings or Loss of Acquiree attributable to parent since Acquisition Date, Actual Pro forma revenue Business Acquisition, Pro Forma Revenue Pro forma net income (loss) Business Acquisition, Pro Forma Net Income (Loss) Pro forma net Income (loss) attributable to Icahn Enterprises The pro forma net Income or Loss attributable to parent or the period as if the business combination or combinations had been completed at the beginning of a period. The pro forma net Income or Loss attributable to parent or the period as if the business combination or combinations had been completed at the beginning of a period. Pro forma basic income (loss) per LP unit Business Acquisition, Pro Forma Earnings Per Share, Basic Pro forma diluted income (loss) per LP unit Business Acquisition, Pro Forma Earnings Per Share, Diluted Subsidiary units issued to acquire entity Subsidiary units issued to acquire entity Subsidiary units issued to acquire entity Value of equity interest in subsidiary issued to acquire business Business Acquisition, Equity Interest Issued or Issuable, Value Assigned Payments to acquire businesses Payments to Acquire Businesses, Gross Liabilities of acquiree incurred from business combination Business Combination, Consideration Transferred, Liabilities Incurred Intercompany debt, face amount Intercompany debt, face amount Intercompany debt, face amount Face value of pre-petition debt Face value of pre-petition debt Face value of pre-petition debt Impairment Asset Impairment Charges VIE Carrying amount of assets Variable Interest Entity, Consolidated, Carrying Amount, Assets VIE Carrying amount of liabilities Variable Interest Entity, Consolidated, Carrying Amount, Liabilities Cash held at consolidated affiliated partnerships and restricted cash Restricted Cash and Cash Equivalents Fair value of long-term debt Long-term Debt, Fair Value Affect on prior year financial statements from adopting new accounting principle New Accounting Pronouncement or Change in Accounting Principle, Effect of Adoption, Quantification Other (Loss) Income, Net [Abstract] Other (Loss) Income, Net [Abstract] Components of Other Income (Loss), Net [Table] Component of Other Income (Loss), Ne [Table] Component of Other Income (Loss), Net [Table] Component of Other (Loss) Income, Net [Axis] Component of Other Income (Loss), Net [Axis] Component of Other Income (Loss), net [Axis] Component of Other (Loss) Income, Net, Name [Domain] Component of Other Income (Loss), Net Name [Domain] Component of Other Income (Loss), Net Name [Domain] Realized and unrealized gain (loss) on derivatives, net Unrealized gain loss on derivatives [Member] Unrealized gain loss on derivatives (Loss) gain on disposition of assets Gain (loss) on dispositions of assets [Member] Gain (loss) on dispositions of assets Loss on extinguishment of debt Loss on Debt Extinguishment [Member] Loss on Debt Extinguishment [Member] Equity earnings from non-consolidated affiliates Income (loss) from non-consolidated affiliates [Member] Income (loss) from non-consolidated affiliates [Member] Gain on acquisition [Member] Gain on acquisition [Member] Gain on acquisition [Member] Foreign currency translation loss Foreign Currency Gain (Loss) [Member] Other Other Income (Loss) Not Specified [Member] Other Income (Loss) not otherwise specified in the disclosure [Member] Component of Other Income (Loss), Net [Line Items] Component of Other Income (Loss), Net [Line Items] Component of Other Income (Loss), Net [Line Items] Other income, net Other Nonoperating Income (Expense) Net Income Per LP Unit [Abstract] Net Income Per LP Unit [Abstract] Schedule Of Earnings Per LP Unit Schedule of Earnings Per Share, Basic and Diluted [Table Text Block] Investments and Related Matters [Abstract] Investments and Related Matters [Abstract] Schedule of Investments [Table] Schedule of Investments [Table] Investment, Name [Axis] Investment, Name [Axis] Investment, Name [Domain] Investment, Name [Domain] Herbalife [Member] Herbalife [Member] Herbalife [Member] Investment Sector [Axis] Investment Sector [Axis] Investment Sector [Domain] Investment Sector [Domain] Basic materials Basic Materials [Member] Basic Materials [Member] Communications Communications [Member] Communications [Member] Consumer, non-cyclical Consumer, non-cyclical [Member] Consumer, non-cyclical [Member] Consumer, cyclical Consumer, cyclical [Member] Consumer, cyclical [Member] Diversified Diversified [Member] Diversified [Member] Energy Energy sector [Member] Energy sector [Member] Financial Financial [Member] Financial [Member] Industrial Industrial [Member] Industrial [Member] Technology Technology [Member] Technology [Member] Sovereign debt Sovereign Debt [Member] Utilities Utilities [Member] Utilities [Member] Investment Type [Axis] Investment Type [Axis] Investments [Domain] Investments [Domain] Equity securities: Equity Securities [Member] Corporate debt: Debt Securities [Member] Mortgage-backed securities: Collateralized Mortgage Backed Securities [Member] Schedule of Investments [Line Items] Schedule of Investments [Line Items] Investments Investments Securities sold, not yet purchased, at fair value Financial Instruments Sold, Not yet Purchased, at Fair Value Portion of trading gains (loss) that relates to trading securities still held Trading Securities, Change in Unrealized Holding Gain (Loss) Ownership percentage in investment measured at fair value that would otherwise be accounted for under equity method Equity Method Investment, Ownership Percentage Unrealized gain on investment at fair value that would otherwise be accounted for under equity method Unrealized Gain on Securities Fair value of equity method investment under fair value option Fair Value of Equity Method Investment Under Fair Value Option Fair Value of Equity Method Investment Under Fair Value Option Fair Value Disclosures [Abstract] Fair Value, Assets Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation [Table] Trading Securities [Member] Trading Securities [Member] Other Segments and Holding Company [Member] Other Segments and Holding Company [Member] Other Segments and Holding Company [Member] Measurement Frequency [Axis] Measurement Frequency [Axis] Fair Value, Measurement Frequency [Domain] Fair Value, Measurement Frequency [Domain] Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member] Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member] Fair Value, Hierarchy [Axis] Fair Value, Hierarchy [Axis] Fair Value, Measurements, Fair Value Hierarchy [Domain] Fair Value Hierarchy [Domain] Fair Value, Inputs, Level 3 [Member] Fair Value, Inputs, Level 3 [Member] Fair Value, Assets Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation [Line Items] Fair Value, Assets Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation, [Roll Forward] Fair Value, Assets Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation, Calculation [Roll Forward] Fair value of investments measured at fair value on a recurring basis Fair Value, Measurement with Unobservable Inputs Reconciliation, Recurring Basis, Asset Value Net realized and unrealized gains (losses)(1) Fair Value, Measurement with Unobservable Inputs Reconciliation, Recurring Basis, Asset, Gain (Loss) Included in Earnings Purchases Fair Value, Measurement with Unobservable Inputs Reconciliation, Recurring Basis, Asset, Purchases Net transfers out Fair Value, Measurement with Unobservable Inputs Reconciliation, Recurring Basis, Asset, Transfers, Net Unrealized gain included in earnings related to Level 3 assets still held at period end Fair Value, Assets Measured on Recurring Basis, Change in Unrealized Gain (Loss) Schedule of Other Nonoperating Income (Expense) Other Income (Loss), Net [Table Text Block] Table for other income or other expense items (both operating and nonoperating). Sources of nonoperating income or nonoperating expense that may be disclosed, include amounts earned from dividends, interest on securities, profits (losses) on securities, net and miscellaneous other income or income deductions. [Table Text Block] Schedule Of Earnings Per LP Unit [Table] Schedule Of Earnings Per LP Unit [Table] Schedule Of Earnings Per LP Unit [Table] ARL [Member] ARL [Member] ARL [Member] Subsequent Event Type [Axis] Subsequent Event Type [Axis] Subsequent Event Type [Domain] Subsequent Event Type [Domain] Subsequent Event [Member] Subsequent Event [Member] Earnings Per LP Unit [Line Items] Earnings Per LP Unit [Line Items] Earnings Per LP Unit [Line Items] Net (loss) income attributable to Icahn Enterprises Net Income (Loss) Attributable to Parent Net (loss) income attributable to Icahn Enterprises allocable to limited partners (98.01% allocation) Net Income (Loss) Allocated to Limited Partners Basic (loss) income per LP unit Net Income (Loss), Per Outstanding Limited Partnership Unit, Basic, Net of Tax Basic weighted average LP units outstanding Weighted Average Limited Partnership Units Outstanding, Basic Diluted (loss) income per LP unit Net Income (Loss), Net of Tax, Per Outstanding Limited Partnership Unit, Diluted Diluted weighted average LP units outstanding Weighted Average Limited Partnership Units Outstanding, Diluted LP units issued as consideration for acquisition Business Acquisition, Equity Interest Issued or Issuable, Number of Shares Distribution made to limited partners, Unit distribution Distribution Made to Limited Partner, Unit Distribution Distribution declared per depositary unit Distribution Made to Limited Partner, Distributions Declared, Per Unit Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) [Abstract] Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) [Abstract] AOCI, Post-employment benefts, net of tax Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Pension and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans, Net of Tax AOCI, Hedge instruments, net of tax Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Cumulative Changes in Net Gain (Loss) from Cash Flow Hedges, Effect Net of Tax AOCI, Translation adjustments and other, net of tax Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Translation adjustments and other, net of tax Accumulated adjustment, net of tax, that results from the process of translating subsidiary financial statements and foreign equity investments into the reporting currency from the functional currency of the reporting entity, net of reclassification of realized foreign currency translation gains or losses. Also includes other immaterial balances. Accumulated other comprehensive loss, net of tax Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax OCI, Post-employment benefts before reclassificaitons, net of tax Other Comprehensive (Income) Loss, Pension and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans, Adjustment, before Reclassification Adjustments, Net of Tax OCI, Hedge instruments before reclassificaitons, net of tax Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Unrealized Gain (Loss) on Derivatives Arising During Period, Net of Tax OCI, Translation adjustments and other before reclassificaitons, net of tax Other comprehensive income, translation adjustments and other, before reclassificaitons, net of tax Other comprehensive income, translation adjustments and other, before reclassificaitons, net of tax Other comprehensive income, before reclassifications to income Other comprehensive income, before reclassifications to income Other comprehensive income, before reclassifications to income OCI, Post-employment benefts reclassificaitons to income, net of tax Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Reclassification Adjustment from AOCI, Pension and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans, for Net Gain (Loss), Net of Tax OCI, Hedge instruments reclassificaitons to income, net of tax Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss) Reclassified from Accumulated OCI into Income, Effective Portion, Net OCI, Translation adjustments and other reclassificaitons to income, net of tax Reclassificaion of translation adjustments and other in AOCI into earnings, net of tax Reclassificaion of translation adjustments and other in AOCI into earnings, net of tax Other comprehensive income, portion representing reclassificaitons to earnings Other comprehensive income, portion representing reclassificaitons to earnings Other comprehensive income, portion representing reclassificaitons to earnings OCI, Post-employment benefts, net of tax Other Comprehensive (Income) Loss, Pension and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans, Adjustment, Net of Tax OCI, Hedge instruments, net of tax Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Derivatives Qualifying as Hedges, Net of Tax OCI, Translation adjustments and other, net of tax Other Comprehensive Income - Translation Adjustments and Other Changes in Other Comprehensive Income Principally includes change in the balance sheet adjustment that results from the process of translating subsidiary financial statements and foreign equity investments into functional currency of the reporting entity for the period being reported, net of tax. If an entity's functional currency is a foreign currency, translation adjustments result from the process of translating that entity's financial statements into the reporting currency. Includes gain (loss) on foreign currency forward exchange contracts. Includes foreign currency transactions designated as hedges of net investment in a foreign entity and intercompany foreign currency transactions that are of a long-term nature, when the entities to the transaction are consolidated, combined, or accounted for by the equity method in the reporting enterprise's financial statements. Includes the gain (loss) on a derivative instrument or nonderivative financial instrument that may give rise to a foreign currency transaction gain (loss) and that have been designated and have qualified as hedging instruments for hedges of the foreign currency exposure of a net investment in a foreign operation. Also includes other changes in other comprehensive income not otherwise identified. Other comprehensive income (loss), net of tax Income Statement [Abstract] Revenues: Revenues [Abstract] Net sales Sales Revenue, Goods, Net Other revenues from operations Other Revenue, Net Net gain (loss) from investment activities Gain (Loss) on Investments, Excluding Other than Temporary Impairments Interest and dividend income Interest and Dividend Income, Operating Total Revenues Revenues Expenses: Costs and Expenses [Abstract] Cost of goods sold Cost of Goods Sold Other expenses from operations Other Cost and Expense, Operating Selling, general and administrative Selling, General and Administrative Expense Restructuring Restructuring Charges Interest expense Interest Expense Total Expenses Total Expenses Total of all operating and non-operating costs and expenses. Income (loss) before income tax expense Income (Loss) from Continuing Operations before Income Taxes, Noncontrolling Interest Income tax expense Income Tax Expense (Benefit) Net income (loss) Less: net (income) loss attributable to non-controlling interests Net Income (Loss) Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest Net (loss) income attributable to Icahn Enterprises Net (loss) income attributable to Icahn Enterprises allocable to: Net Income (Loss) Attributable to Parent [Abstract] Limited partners General partner Net Income (Loss) Allocated to General Partners Basic (loss) income per LP unit Net Income (Loss), Per Outstanding Limited Partnership Unit, Basic, Net of Tax [Abstract] Diluted (loss) income per LP unit Earnings Per Share, Diluted [Abstract] Cash distributions declared per LP unit Distributions Per Limited Partnership Unit Outstanding, Basic Investment Segment [Abstract] Investment Segment [Abstract] Operating Units [Table] OPerating Units [Table] OPerating Units [Table] Segment Reporting Information [Line Items] Segment Reporting Information [Line Items] Fair value of our interest in Funds of subsidiary Subsidiary of Limited Liability Company or Limited Partnership, Ownership Interest, Fair Value The fair value of investment held in the subsidiary investment funds by the limited liability company or limited partnership. Energy Segment [Abstract] Energy Segment [Abstract] Property location [Axis] Property location [Axis] Property location [Axis] Location [Domain] Location [Domain] Coffeyville, Kansas [Member] Coffeyville, Kansas [Member] Coffeyville, Kansas [Member] Wynnewood, Oklahoma [Member] Wynnewood, Oklahoma [Member] Wynnewood, Oklahoma [Member] East Dubuque [Member] East Dubuque [Member] East Dubuque [Member] Oil and Gas Production Type [Axis] Oil and Gas Production Type [Axis] Production Type [Domain] Production Type [Domain] Petroleum [Member] Crude Oil [Member] Crude oil gathering [Member] Crude oil gathering [Member] Crude oil gathering [Member] Pipeline transportation of oil [Member] 486110 Pipeline Transportation of Crude Oil [Member] Nitrogen Fertilizer [Member] 325311 Nitrogenous Fertilizer Manufacturing [Member] CVR Refining, LP [Member] CVR Refining, LP [Member] CVR Refining, LP [Member] CVR Partners, LP [Member] CVR Partners, LP [Member] CVR Partners, LP [Member] CVR Energy, Inc. [Member] CVR Energy, Inc. [Member] CVR Energy, Inc. [Member] Percentage of equity ownership in subsidiary Barrels per day Production, Barrels of Oil Per Day Production, Barrels of Oil Per Day Crude oil pipeline length (in miles) Crude oil pipeline length (in miles) Crude oil pipeline length (in miles) Production barrels of oil storage capacity Production barrels of oil storage capacity Production barrels of oil storage capacity Production barrels of oil combined refinery related storage capacity Production barrels of oil combined refinery related storage capacity Production barrels of oil combined refinery related storage capacity Area of land (acres) Area of Land Ton-per-day ammonia unit facility Production, Tons of Ammonia Per Day Production, Tons of Ammonia Per Day Ton-per-day of Urea and Ammonium Nitrate unit facility Production, Tons of Urea and Ammonium Nitrate Per Day Production, Tons of Urea and Ammonium Nitrate Per Day Cubic feet of hydrogen per day gasifiation complex Production, Cubic Feet of Hydrogen Per Day Production, Cubic Feet of Hydrogen Per Day Schedule of Condensed Financial Statements [Table] Condensed Financial Statements [Table] Holding Company [Member] Metals Segment [Member] Metals Segment [Member] Metals Segment [Member] Mining segment [Member] Mining segment [Member] Mining Segment [Member] Real Estate Segment [Member] Real Estate Segment [Member] Real Estate Segment [Member] Home Fashion Segment [Member] Home Fashion Segment [Member] Home Fashion Segment [Member] Holding Company [Member] Holding Company [Member] Holding Company [Member] Condensed Financial Statements, Captions [Line Items] Condensed Financial Statements, Captions [Line Items] ASSETS Assets [Abstract] Cash and cash equivalents Cash and Cash Equivalents, at Carrying Value Accounts receivable, net Accounts Receivable, Net Inventories, net Inventory, Net Property, plant and equipment, net Property, Plant and Equipment, Net Goodwill and intangible assets, net Intangible Assets, Net (Including Goodwill) Other assets Other Assets and Due from Correspondent Brokers Other Assets and Due from Correspondent Brokers Total assets Assets LIABILITIES AND EQUITY Liabilities and Equity [Abstract] Accounts payable, accrued expenses and other liabilities Accounts Payable and Accrued Liabilities Due to brokers Due to Correspondent Brokers Post-employment benefit liability Postemployment Benefits Liability Total assets Liabilities Equity attributable to Icahn Enterprises Stockholders' Equity Attributable to Parent Equity attributable to non-controlling interests Stockholders' Equity Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest Total equity Total liabilities and equity Liabilities and Equity Net income (loss) Commitments and Contingencies Commitments and Contingencies Disclosure [Text Block] Fair Value Measurements, Recurring and Nonrecurring [Table] Fair Value Measurements, Recurring and Nonrecurring [Table] Corporate Debt Securities [Member] Corporate Debt Securities [Member] Held-to-maturity Securities [Member] Held-to-maturity Securities [Member] Fair Value, Instruments Classified in Shareholders' Equity Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation [Line Items] Fair Value, Instruments Classified in Shareholders' Equity Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation [Line Items] Transfer out of Level 3 Fair Value, Measurement with Unobservable Inputs Reconciliation, Recurring Basis, Asset, Transfers out of Level 3 Purchases of level 3 investment Fair value of equity investment in Ferrous Resources prior to acquisition of controlling interest Fair value of equity investment in Ferrous Resources prior to acquisition of controlling interest Fair value of equity investment in entity prior to acquisition of controlling interest Fair value of investments measured at fair value on a non-recurring basis Assets, Fair Value Disclosure, Nonrecurring Impairment of goodwill Goodwill, Impairment Loss Impairment of intangible assets Impairment of Intangible Assets (Excluding Goodwill) Impairment of PP&E Impairment of Long-Lived Assets Held-for-use Inventories, Net [Abstract] Inventories, Net [Abstract] Raw materials Inventory, Raw Materials, Net of Reserves Work in process Inventory, Work in Process, Net of Reserves Finished goods Inventory, Finished Goods, Net of Reserves Inventory, net Subsequent Events [Abstract] Subsequent Events Subsequent Events [Text Block] Fair Values Derivatives, Balance Sheet Location, by Derivative Contract Type [Table] Fair Values Derivatives, Balance Sheet Location, by Derivative Contract Type [Table] Credit Facility [Axis] Credit Facility [Axis] Credit Facility [Domain] Credit Facility [Domain] Term Loan [Member] Term Loan [Member] Term Loan [Member] Debt Facility [Member] Income Statement Location [Axis] Income Statement Location [Axis] Income Statement Location [Domain] Income Statement Location [Domain] Other Income (Loss) Not Specified [Member] Accrued Expenses and Other Liabilities [Member] Accrued Expenses and Other Liabilities [Member] Accrued Expenses and Other Liabilities [Member] Hedging Relationship [Axis] Hedging Relationship [Axis] Hedging Relationship [Domain] Hedging Relationship [Domain] Cash Flow Hedging [Member] Cash Flow Hedging [Member] Derivative, by Nature [Axis] Commodity contracts Commodity Contract [Member] 2-1-1 crack spreads [Member] 2-1-1 crack spreads [Member] 2-1-1 crack spreads [Member] Heating oil crack spreads [Member] Heating oil crack spreads [Member] Heating oil crack spreads [Member] Price and basis swap [Member] Price and basis swap [Member] Price and basis swap [Member] Interest rate swap contracts Interest Rate Swap [Member] Hedging Designation [Axis] Hedging Designation [Axis] Hedging Designation [Domain] Hedging Designation [Domain] Designated as Hedging Instrument [Member] Designated as Hedging Instrument [Member] Not Designated as Hedging Instrument [Member] Not Designated as Hedging Instrument [Member] Derivatives, Fair Value [Line Items] Derivatives, Fair Value [Line Items] Number of barrels Derivative, Nonmonetary Notional Amount, Volume Derivative asset Derivative Asset, Fair Value, Amount Not Offset Against Collateral Notional value of interest rate swap agreements Derivative, Notional Amount Realized gain or loss on derivatives Derivative, Gain (Loss) on Derivative, Net Portion of debt that is hedged Derivative, Amount of Hedged Item Interest rate swap losses relcassed from AOCI to interest expense Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Reclassification Adjustment from AOCI on Derivatives, before Tax Compensation and Retirement Disclosure [Abstract] Pensions,Other Post-employment Benefits and Employee Benefit Plans Pension and Other Postretirement Benefits Disclosure [Text Block] Location of operations, State or country [Axis] Location of operations, State or country [Axis] Location of operations, State or country [Axis] State or country of operations [Domain] State or country of operations [Domain] State or country of operations [Domain] MASSACHUSETTS MASSACHUSETTS FLORIDA FLORIDA Ferrous Resources [Member] Ferrous Resources [Member] Ferrous Resources [Member] ARI [Member] ARI [Member] ARI [Member] Viskase [Member] Viskase [Member] Viskase [Member] Number of Manufacturing Facilities Nnumber of Manufacturing Facilities Nnumber of Manufacturing Facilities Number of distribution centers Number of Distribution Centers Number of Distribution Centers Net sales from customers located outside the U.S. Disclosure on Geographic Areas, Revenue from External Customers Attributed to Foreign Countries, Percentage Disclosure on Geographic Areas, Revenue from External Customers Attributed to Foreign Countries, Percentage Number of Real Estate commercial rental properties Number of Real Estate Properties Number of units of residential housing in future development Number of Units of Residential Housing in Future Development Number of Units of Residential Housing in Future Development Interest rate reference [Axis] Interest rate reference [Axis] Interest rate reference [Axis] Interest rate reference [Domain] Interest rate reference [Domain] [Domain] for Interest rate reference [Axis] Federal-Mogul Credit Facility [Member] Federal-Mogul Credit Facility [Member] Federal-Mogul Credit Facility [Member] IEP Auto Credit Facility [Member] IEP Auto Credit Facility [Member] IEP Auto Credit Facility [Member] IEH Auto Credit Facility [Member] IEH Auto Credit Facility [Member] IEH Auto Credit Facility [Member] Pep Boys Credit Facility [Member] Pep Boys Credit Facility [Member] Pep Boys Credit Facility [Member] Line of credit facility increase in borrowing capacity Line of Credit Facility, Increase (Decrease), Net Letters of credit outstanding amount Letters of Credit Outstanding, Amount Property, Plant and Equipment, Net [Abstract] Schedule of Property, Plant and Equipment [Table] Property, Plant and Equipment [Table] Property Subject to or Available for Operating Lease [Axis] Property Subject to or Available for Operating Lease [Axis] Property Subject to or Available for Operating Lease [Domain] Property Subject to or Available for Operating Lease [Domain] Railcars [Member] Railcars [Member] Railcars [Member] Real estate properties [Member] Real estate properties [Member] Real estate properties [Member] Property, Plant and Equipment, Type [Axis] Property, Plant and Equipment, Type [Axis] Property, Plant and Equipment, Type [Domain] Property, Plant and Equipment, Type [Domain] Land Land [Member] Buildings and improvements Building and Building Improvements [Member] Machinery, equipment and furniture Machinery, Equipment, and Furniture [Member] Machinery, Equipment, and Furniture [Member] Assets leased to others Assets Leased to Others [Member] Construction in progress Construction in Progress [Member] Range [Axis] Range [Axis] Range [Domain] Range [Domain] Minimum [Member] Minimum [Member] Maximum [Member] Maximum [Member] Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items] Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items] Property, plant and equipment, useful life (in years) Property, Plant and Equipment, Useful Life Property, plant and equipment, gross Property, Plant and Equipment, Gross Less: Accumulated depreciation and amortization Accumulated Depreciation, Depletion and Amortization, Property, Plant, and Equipment Property, plant and equipment, net Depreciation and amortization expense related to property, plant and equipment Depreciation Net gain from investment activities Other (loss) income, net Total Revenues Total Expenses Income before income tax expense Supplemental information: Supplemental Income Statement Elements [Abstract] Capital expenditures Payments to Acquire Property, Plant, and Equipment Depreciation and amortization Depreciation, Depletion and Amortization Amortization included in interest expense Amortization of Debt Issuance Costs and Discounts Income Tax Disclosure [Abstract] Income Taxes Income Tax Disclosure [Text Block] Schedule of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) Schedule of changes in accumulated other comprehensive income [Table Text Block] Schedule of changes in accumulated other comprehensive income [Table Text Block] Statement of Comprehensive Income [Abstract] Other comprehensive income (loss), net of tax: Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax [Abstract] Post-employment benefits Hedge instruments Translation adjustments and other Comprehensive income (loss) Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax, Including Portion Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest Less: Comprehensive (income) loss attributable to non-controlling interests Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax, Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest Comprehensive income (loss) attributable to Icahn Enterprises Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax, Attributable to Parent Comprehensive income (loss) attributable to Icahn Enterprises allocable to: Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax, Attributable to Parent [Abstract] Investments and Related Matters Investments and Other Noncurrent Assets [Text Block] Schedule of Inventory, Current [Table Text Block] Schedule of Inventory, Current [Table Text Block] Equity contracts Equity Contract [Member] Foreign exchange contracts Foreign Exchange Contract [Member] Credit contracts Credit Risk Contract [Member] Interest rate swap contracts Derivatives Not Designated as Hedging Instruments, Fair Value [Line Items] Derivatives Not Designated as Hedging Instruments, Fair Value [Line Items] Derivatives Not Designated as Hedging Instruments, Fair Value [Line Items] Asset Derivatives, Gross Derivative Asset, Fair Value, Gross Asset Liability Derivatives, Gross Derivative Liability, Fair Value, Gross Liability Netting across contract types Derivative, Fair Value, Amount Offset Against Collateral, Net Derivative contracts, at fair value (asset) Derivative Asset Derivative contracts at fair value (liability) Derivative Liability Other Segments [Member] Other Segments [Member] Equity method investments Equity Method Investments [Member] Other investments Other Investments [Member] Net Income Per LP Unit Earnings Per Share [Text Block] Goodwill and Intangible Assets Disclosure [Abstract] Schedule of Goodwill [Table] Schedule of Goodwill [Table] Reporting unit [Axis] Reporting unit [Axis] Reporting unit [Axis] Goodwill [Line Items] Goodwill [Line Items] Goodwill, Gross Goodwill, Gross Goodwill, Accumulated Impairment Goodwill, Impaired, Accumulated Impairment Loss Goodwill, Net Carrying Value Goodwill CVR Refining Credit Facility [Member] CVR Refining Credit Facility [Member] CVR Refining Credit Facility [Member] CVR Partners 2011 Credit Facility [Member] CVR Partners 2011 Credit Facility [Member] CVR Partners 2011 Credit Facility [Member] CVR Partners 2023 Notes [Member] CVR Partners 2023 Notes [Member] CVR Partners 2023 Notes [Member] CVR Nitrogen 2021 Notes [Member] CVR Nitrogen 2021 Notes [Member] CVR Nitrogen 2021 Notes [Member] CVR Partners 2016 Credit Facility [Member] CVR Partners 2016 Credit Facility [Member] CVR Partners 2016 Credit Facility [Member] Additional borrowing availability Additional borrowing availability Additional borrowing availability Interest rate Debt Instrument, Interest Rate, Stated Percentage Face value of repurchased debt Debt Instrument, Repurchased Face Amount Amount paid for repurchased debt Debt Instrument, Repurchase Amount Premium paid on repurchased debt Gain (Loss) on Extinguishment of Debt, before Write off of Debt Issuance Cost Interest paid on repurchased debt Interest Paid Loss on extinguishment of debt Gain (Loss) on Extinguishment of Debt Discount on debt Debt Instrument, Unamortized Discount Proceeds from issuance of debt Proceeds from Issuance of Senior Long-term Debt Determination of what constitutes a segment [Policy Text Block] Segment Reporting, Policy [Policy Text Block] Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows [Abstract] Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows [Abstract] Cash flows from operating activities: Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Operating Activities [Abstract] Adjustments to reconcile net (loss) income to net cash provided by operating activities: Adjustments to Reconcile Net Income (Loss) to Cash Provided by (Used in) Operating Activities [Abstract] Net loss (gain) from securities transactions Gain (Loss) on Investments Purchases of securities Payments to Acquire Marketable Securities Proceeds from sales of securities Proceeds from Sale and Maturity of Marketable Securities Purchases to cover securities sold, not yet purchased Purchases to Cover Securities Sold Not Yet Purchased Purchases to cover securities sold not yet purchased Proceeds from securities sold, not yet purchased Investment Sold, Not yet Purchased, Sale Proceeds Changes in receivables and payables relating to securities transactions Increase (Decrease) in Broker-Dealer Related Receivables (Payables), Net Depreciation and amortization Depreciation and amortization, including non-cash interest expense The aggregate expense recognized in the current period that allocates the cost of tangible assets, intangible assets, or depleting assets to periods that benefit from use of the assets as well as the non-cash portion of interest expense as a result of amortizing debt discount, premiums and financing costs. Equity earnings from non-consolidated affiliates Equity earnings from non-consolidated affiliates Equity earnings from non-consolidated affiliates Deferred taxes Increase (Decrease) in Deferred Income Taxes Other, net Other Operating Activities, Cash Flow Statement Changes in cash held at consolidated affiliated partnerships and restricted cash Increase (Decrease) in Restricted Cash for Operating Activities Changes in other operating assets and liabilities Increase (Decrease) in Other Operating Assets and Liabilities, Net Net cash provided by operating activities Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Operating Activities Cash flows from investing activities: Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Investing Activities [Abstract] Capital expenditures Payments to Acquire Productive Assets Acquisition of businesses, net of cash acquired Payments to Acquire Businesses, Net of Cash Acquired Purchases of investments Payments to Acquire Investments Proceeds from sale of investments Proceeds from Sale, Maturity and Collection of Investments Other, net Other items provided by (used in) investing activities, cash flow statement Other items provided by (used in) investing activities, cash flow statement Net cash used in investing activities Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Investing Activities Cash flows from financing activities: Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Financing Activities [Abstract] Capital contributions by non-controlling interests Capital Contributions by Non-controlling Interests Cash contributions by non-controlling investors in the Private Funds Capital distributions to non-controlling interests Capital Distributions To Non Controlling Interests Cash distributions paid to non-controlling investors in the Private Funds Partnership contributions Proceeds from Partnership Contribution Partnership distributions Partnership distributions Partnership distributions Proceeds from offering of subsidiary equity Proceeds from Issuance or Sale of Equity Proceeds from other borrowings Proceeds from Other Debt Repayments of other borrowings Repayments of Debt and Capital Lease Obligations Other, net Proceeds from (Payments for) Other Financing Activities Net cash provided by financing activities Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Financing Activities Effect of exchange rate changes on cash and cash equivalents Effect of Exchange Rate on Cash and Cash Equivalents Net change in cash of assets held for sale Net Change in Cash of Assets Held for Sale Net Change in Cash of Assets Held for Sale Net decrease in cash and cash equivalents Cash and Cash Equivalents, Period Increase (Decrease) Cash and cash equivalents, beginning of period Cash and cash equivalents, end of period Supplemental information: Supplemental Cash Flow Information [Abstract] Cash payments for interest, net of amounts capitalized Interest Paid, Net Net cash payments (refunds) for income taxes Income Taxes Paid, Net Investment in Pep Boys prior to acquiring a controlling interest Investment in Pep Boys prior to acquiring a controlling interest Investment in Pep Boys prior to acquiring a controlling interest Investment in Trump prior to acquiring a controlling interest Investment in Trump prior to acquiring a controlling interest Investment in Trump prior to acquiring a controlling interest LP unit issuance for remaining 25% interest in ARL LP unit issuance to purchase majority interests LP unit issuance to purchase majority interests Subsidiary common unit issuance for acquisition of CVR Nitrogen Subsidiary common unit issuance for acquisition of CVR Nitrogen Subsidiary common unit issuance for acquisition of CVR Nitrogen Fair value of equity investment in Ferrous Resources prior to acquisition of controlling interest Schedule of Definite-Lived and Indefinite-Lived Intangible Assets, by Segment [Table] Schedule of Finite-Lived and Indefinite-Lived Intangible Assets, by Segment [Table] Schedule of Finite-Lived and Indefinite-Lived Intangible Assets, by Segment [Table] Finite-Lived Intangible Assets by Major Class [Axis] Finite-Lived Intangible Assets by Major Class [Axis] Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Major Class Name [Domain] Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Major Class Name [Domain] Customer relationships Customer Relationships [Member] Developed technology Developed Technology Rights [Member] In-place leases Leases, Acquired-in-Place [Member] Gasification technology license Gasification Technology [Member] Gasification Technology [Member] Other Unclassified Indefinite-lived Intangible Assets [Member] Indefinite-lived Intangible Assets by Major Class [Axis] Indefinite-lived Intangible Assets [Axis] Indefinite-lived intangible assets: Indefinite-lived Intangible Assets, Major Class Name [Domain] Trademarks and brand names [Member] Trademarks and Trade Names [Member] Gaming licenses Gaming license [Member] Gaming license Intangible Assets, [Line Items] Finite-Lived and Infinite-Lived Intangible Assets, by Segment [Line Items] Finite-Lived and Infinite-Lived Intangible Assets, by Segment [Line Items] Definite-lived intangible assets: [Abstract] Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Gross and Net [Abstract] Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Gross and Net [Abstract] Definite-lived intangible assets, Gross Carrying Amount Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Gross Definite-lived intangible assets, Accumulated Amortization Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Accumulated Amortization Definite-lived intangible assets, Net Carrying Value Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Net Indefinite-lived intangible assets: [Abstract] Indefinite-Lived Intangible Assets, Gross and Net [Abstract] Indefinite-Lived Intangible Assets, Gross and Net [Abstract] Indefinite-lived intangible assets, Net Carrying Value Indefinite-Lived Intangible Assets (Excluding Goodwill) Intangible assets, net Intangible Assets, Net (Excluding Goodwill) Debt Debt Disclosure [Text Block] Net Periodic Benefit Cost [Abstract] Net Periodic Benefit Cost [Abstract] Defined Benefit Plans and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans Disclosures [Table] Defined Benefit Plans and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans Disclosures [Table] Defined Benefit Plans and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans [Axis] Defined Benefit Plans and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans [Axis] Defined Benefit Plans and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans [Domain] Defined Benefit Plan and Other Postretirement Benefit Plan [Domain] Pension Benefits Pension Plan [Member] OPEB Other Postretirement Benefit Plan [Member] Net Periodic Benefit Cost [Line Items] Defined Benefit Plans and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans Table Text Block [Line Items] Service cost Defined Benefit Plan, Service Cost Interest cost Defined Benefit Plan, Interest Cost Expected return on plan assets Defined Benefit Plan, Expected Return on Plan Assets Amortization of actuarial losses Defined Benefit Plan, Amortization of Gains (Losses) Amortization of prior service credit Defined Benefit Plan, Amortization of Prior Service Cost (Credit) Net periodic benefit cost Defined Benefit Plan, Net Periodic Benefit Cost Schedule of Property, Plant and Equipment, Net Property, Plant and Equipment [Table Text Block] Document and Entity Information [Abstract] Document and Entity Information [Abstract] Entity Registrant Name Entity Registrant Name Trading Symbol Trading Symbol Entity Central Index Key Entity Central Index Key Current Fiscal Year End Date Current Fiscal Year End Date Entity Filer Category Entity Filer Category Document Type Document Type Document Period End Date Document Period End Date Document Fiscal Year Focus Document Fiscal Year Focus Document Fiscal Period Focus Document Fiscal Period Focus Amendment Flag Amendment Flag Entity Common Stock, Shares Outstanding Entity Common Stock, Shares Outstanding Entity Well-known Seasoned Issuer Entity Well-known Seasoned Issuer Entity Current Reporting Status Entity Current Reporting Status Automotive Segment [Abstract] Automotive Segment [Abstract] Federal-Mogul [Member] Federal-Mogul [Member] Federal-Mogul [Member] IEH Auto [Member] IEH Auto [Member] IEH Auto [Member] Restructuring Plan [Axis] Restructuring Plan [Axis] Restructuring Plan [Domain] Restructuring Plan [Domain] Cost restructure program [Member] Cost restructure program [Member] Cost restructure program [Member] Prior restructuring programs Other Restructuring [Member] Number of locations Number of locations Number of locations Automotive supercenter, square footage Automotive supercenter, square footge Automotive supercenter, square footage Service center, square footage Service center, square footage Service center, square footage Gross amount of transferred receivables under factoring arrangement Transferor's Interests in Transferred Financial Assets, Fair Value Gross amount of transferred receivables under factoring arrangements qualifying as sales Gross accounts receivable factored, qualifying as sales Gross accounts receivable under factoring facilities qualify as sales. Undrawn cash with respect to transferred receivables Undrawn cash with respect to transferred receivables Undrawn cash with respect to transferred receivables Proceeds from transferred receivables under factoring arrangements qualifying as sales Cash Flows Between Transferor and Transferee, Proceeds from New Transfers Expenses associated with transferred receivables under factoring arrangements Securitization or Asset-backed Financing Arrangement, Financial Asset for which Transfer is Accounted as Sale, Gain (Loss) on Sale Maximum exposure associated with transferred receivables under factoring arrangements Continuing Involvement with Transferred Financial Assets, Principal Amount Outstanding Expected additional cost to complete restructuring programs Restructuring and Related Cost, Expected Cost Number of stores Number of Stores Number of independent wholesalers in network Number of independent wholesalers in network Number of independent wholesalers in network Schedule of Segment Reporting Information, by Segment [Table] Schedule of Segment Reporting Information, by Segment [Table] Condensed statements of operations by reporting segment Condensed Income Statement [Table Text Block] Condensed balance sheets by reporting segment Condensed Financial Statements [Table Text Block] Segment information Schedule of Segment Reporting Information, by Segment [Table Text Block] Statement of Financial Position [Abstract] Scenario [Axis] Scenario [Axis] Scenario, Unspecified [Domain] Scenario, Unspecified [Domain] Equity: Stockholders' Equity Attributable to Parent [Abstract] Limited partners: Depositary units issued Limited Partners' Capital Account, Units Issued Limited partners: Depositary units outstanding Limited Partners' Capital Account, Units Outstanding Credit swaps(1) Credit Default Swap [Member] Equity swaps Equity Swap [Member] Foreign currency forwards Foreign Exchange Forward [Member] Long Notional Exposure Notional Exposure of Derivatives, Long Position Notional Exposure of Derivatives, Long Position Short Notional Exposure Notional Exposure of Derivatives, Short Position Notional Exposure of Derivatives, Short Position Notional Exposure of Derivatives, Short Position, less than three months Notional Exposure of Derivatives, Short Position, less than three months Notional Exposure of Derivatives, Short Position, less than three months Goodwill and Intangible Assets, Net Goodwill and Intangible Assets Disclosure [Text Block] Other (Loss) Income, Net Other Income and Other Expense Disclosure [Text Block] Investment and Related Matter [Table] Investment and Related Matter [Table] Investment and Related Matter [Table] Investment and Related Matters [Line Items] Investment and Related Matters [Line Items] Investment and Related Matters [Line Items] Investment Investment [Table Text Block] Inventory, Policy [Policy Text Block] Inventory, Policy [Policy Text Block] Reclassifications [Policy Text Block] Reclassification, Policy [Policy Text Block] Principals of consolidation [Policy Text Block] Consolidation, Variable Interest Entity, Policy [Policy Text Block] Fair value of financial instruments [Policy Text Block] Fair Value of Financial Instruments, Policy [Policy Text Block] Restricted cash [Policy Text Block] Cash and Cash Equivalents, Restricted Cash and Cash Equivalents, Policy [Policy Text Block] Adoption of new accounting pronouncements [Policy Text Block] New Accounting Pronouncements, Policy [Policy Text Block] Recently issued accounting pronouncements [Policy Text Block] Description of New Accounting Pronouncements Not yet Adopted [Text Block] Variable Interest Entity Disclosure [Text Block] Variable Interest Entity Disclosure [Text Block] Business Combinations Policy [Policy Text Block] Business Combinations Policy [Policy Text Block] Inventory Disclosure [Text Block] Inventory Disclosure [Text Block] Property, Plant and Equipment, Net Property, Plant and Equipment Disclosure [Text Block] Unrealized losses recorded in accumulated other comprehensive loss Accumulated other comprehensive income loss commodity price hedges. Accumulated other comprehensive income loss commodity price hedges. Energy [Axis] Energy [Axis] Energy [Domain] Energy [Domain] Variable Rate [Axis] Variable Rate [Axis] Variable Rate [Domain] Variable Rate [Domain] Position [Axis] Position [Axis] Position [Domain] Position [Domain] Schedule of Notional Amounts of Outstanding Derivative Positions [Table Text Block] Schedule of Notional Amounts of Outstanding Derivative Positions [Table Text Block] Schedule of Other Derivatives Not Designated as Hedging Instruments, Statements of Financial Performance and Financial Position, Location Schedule of Other Derivatives Not Designated as Hedging Instruments, Statements of Financial Performance and Financial Position, Location [Table Text Block] Net gain from investment activities [Member] Net Gain from Investment Activities [Member] Net Gain from Investment Activities [Member] Interest rate contracts Interest Rate Contract [Member] Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss) [Line Items] Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss) [Line Items] Gain (loss) on derivatives not designated as hedging instruments recognized in income Derivative Instruments Not Designated as Hedging Instruments, Gain (Loss), Net Schedule of Long-term Debt Instruments Schedule of Long-term Debt Instruments [Table Text Block] Schedule of Goodwill Schedule of Goodwill [Table Text Block] Schedule of Definite-Lived and Infinite-Lived Intangible Assets Schedule of Finite-Lived and Infinite-Lived Intangible Assets [Table Text Block] Schedule of Finite-Lived and Infinite-Lived Intangible Assets, Excluding Goodwill [Table Text Block] Gaming Segment [Abstract] Gaming Segment [Abstract] Tropicana [Member] Tropicana [Member] Tropicana [Member] MISSOURI MISSOURI LOUISIANA LOUISIANA NEVADA NEVADA INDIANA INDIANA NEW JERSEY NEW JERSEY ARUBA ARUBA MISSISSIPPI MISSISSIPPI Number of casinos Number of Casinos Number of Casinos Owned and Operated Square footage of casino space Casino space, square footage Casino space, square footage Number of slot machines Number of Slot Machines Number of Slot Machines Number of table games Number of Table Games Number of Table Games Number of hotel rooms Number of Hotel Rooms Number of Hotel Rooms Schedule of Net Periodic Benefit Costs Schedule of Net Benefit Costs [Table Text Block] Accumulated other comprehensive loss Fair Value Disclosures [Text Block] Fair Value Disclosures [Text Block] Accumulated Other Comprehensive Loss Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) [Text Block] Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) [Text Block] Operating Units [Abstract] Operating Units. [Abstract] Operating Units Operating Units [Text Block] Supplemental information regarding the entity's reportable segments, as a single block text, including narrative business descriptions of reportable segments and relevent financial disclosures specific to reprortable segments no disclosed elsewhere. Goodwill and Intangible Assets [Table] Goodwill and Intangible Assets [Table] Goodwill and Intangible Assets [Table] Other Intangible Assets [Member] Other Intangible Assets [Member] Goodwill and Intangible Assets [Line Items] Goodwill and Intangible Assets [Line Items] Goodwill and Intangible Assets [Line Items] Amortization expense associated with definite-lived intangible assets Amortization of Intangible Assets Allocation to indefinite-lived intangible assets Business Combination, Recognized Identifiable Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed, Indefinite-Lived Intangible Assets Allocation to definite-lived intangible assets Business Combination, Recognized Identifiable Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed, Finite-Lived Intangibles Allocation to goodwill Goodwill, Acquired During Period Goodwill amount expected to be deductible Business Acquisition, Goodwill, Expected Tax Deductible Amount Schedule of Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring Basis [Table Text Block] Schedule of Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring Basis [Table Text Block] Fair Value, Assets Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation [Table Text Block] Fair Value, Assets Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation [Table Text Block] Goodwill Intangible assets, net Other assets Other Assets Total Assets Accounts payable Accounts Payable Accrued expenses and other liabilities Accrued Liabilities Deferred tax liability Deferred Tax Liabilities, Net Total liabilities Commitments and contingencies (Note 17) Commitments and Contingencies Equity: Stockholders' Equity, Including Portion Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest [Abstract] Limited partners: Depositary units: 141,693,617 units issued and outstanding at September 30, 2016 and 131,481,059 units issued and outstanding at December 31, 2015 Limited Partners' Capital Account General partner General Partners' Capital Account Equity attributable to Icahn Enterprises Total equity Total Liabilities and Equity Income tax expense (Loss) income before income tax expense Effective income tax rate Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation, Percent Statutory federal income tax rate Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation, at Federal Statutory Income Tax Rate, Percent Description of Business and Basis of Presentation Organization, Consolidation and Presentation of Financial Statements Disclosure and Significant Accounting Policies [Text Block] Related party agreement [Axis] Related party agreement [Axis] Related party agreement [Axis] Related party agreement [Domain] Related party agreement [Domain] [Domain] for Related party agreement [Axis] Agreements with ACF [Member] Agreements with ACF [Member] Agreements with ACF [Member] Icahn Capital [Member] Icahn Capital [Member] Icahn Capital [Member] ACF [Member] ACF [Member] ACF [Member] Insight Portfolio Group LLC [Member] Insight Portfolio Group LLC [Member] Insight Portfolio Group LLC [Member] Related Party Transactions, by Transaction Type [Axis] Related Party Transaction [Axis] Related Party Transaction [Domain] Related Party Transaction [Domain] Investment in Funds [Member] Hedge Funds, Equity [Member] Expense sharing agreement [Member] Expense Sharing Agreement [Member] Expense Sharing Agreement [Member] Railcar Sales [Member] Railcar Sales [Member] Railcar Sales [Member] Railcar repair services and support [Member] [Member] Railcar repair services and support [Member] [Member] Railcar repair services and support [Member] [Member] Railcar component sales [Member] Railcar component sales [Member] Railcar component sales [Member] Operating expenses Operating Expense [Member] Investment in funds Investment in funds Investment in funds Related party transaction, balance Related party transaction, balance Related party transaction, balance Percentage fair value of investments in Funds that is attributable to Mr. Icahn Percentage fair value of investments in Funds that is attributable to Mr. Icahn Percentage fair value of investments in Funds that is attributable to Mr. Icahn Expenses charged by related party Related Party Transaction, Amounts of Transaction Revenues from transactions with related party Related Party Transaction, Other Revenues from Transactions with Related Party Expenses from transactions with related party Related Party Transaction, Expenses from Transactions with Related Party Subsequent Event [Table] Subsequent Event [Table] Subsequent Event [Line Items] Subsequent Event [Line Items] Fair Value, Inputs, Level 1 [Member] Fair Value, Inputs, Level 1 [Member] Fair Value, Inputs, Level 2 [Member] Fair Value, Inputs, Level 2 [Member] Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items] Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items] Assets [Abstract] Assets, Fair Value Disclosure Assets, Fair Value Disclosure Liabilities [Abstract] Liabilities [Abstract] Other liabilities Other Liabilities, Fair Value Disclosure Financial and Nonfinancial Liabilities, Fair Value Disclosure Financial and Nonfinancial Liabilities, Fair Value Disclosure Loss Contingencies [Table] Loss Contingencies [Table] Starfire Holding Corporation [Member] Starfire Holding Corporation [Member] Starfire Holding Corporation [Member] Loss Contingencies [Line Items] Loss Contingencies [Line Items] Rent expense on operating leases Operating Leases, Rent Expense Accrued environmental liabilities Accrual for Environmental Loss Contingencies Litigation claim gain amount Litigation claim gain amount Litigation claim gain amount Litigation counterclaim amount Litigation counterclaim amount Litigation counterclaim amount Loss Contingency, Loss in Period Loss Contingency Accrual Possible material additional losses, above and beyond best estimate of required remediation costs Site Contingency, Loss Exposure in Excess of Accrual, Best Estimate Affiliate ownership in parent company general partner Affiliate ownership in parent company general partner Affiliate ownership in parent company general partner Affiliate ownership interest Defined benefit plan underfunded amount Defined Benefit Plan, Funded Status of Plan Ownership percentage by Mr. Icahn Ownership Percentage by Principal Owner Ownership percentage by principal owner in related party Net worth floor for which distributions to stockholders would be limited while contingent liabilities exist that can be imposed on us Subsidiary Indemnity Agreement, Pension Funding Contingencies As A Result of Being In The Controlled Group, Distribution Limitation, Net Worth Floor Subsidiary Indemnity Agreement, Pension Funding Contingencies As A Result of Being In The Controlled Group, Distribution Limitation, Net Worth Floor Asset retirement obligation Asset Retirement Obligation Environmental remediation expense Environmental Remediation Expense Cost of RINs Cost of RINs Expenses incurred to purchase additional rewnewable identification numbers Biofuel blending obligation Biofuel blending obligation Biofuel blending obligation