Basis of Presentation and Summary of Significant Accounting Policies [Abstract] Basis of Presentation and Summary of Significant Accounting Policies [Abstract] Organization, Consolidation and Presentation of Financial Statements [Table] Organization, Consolidation and Presentation of Financial Statements [Table] Organization, Consolidation and Presentation of Financial Statements [Table] Segments [Axis] Segments [Axis] Segments [Domain] Segments [Domain] Investment Segment Investment Segment [Member] Investment Segment [Member] Energy Segment Energy Segment [Member] Energy Segment [Member] Automotive Segment Automotive Segment [Member] Automotive Segment [Member] Food Packaging Segment Food Packaging Segment [Member] Food Packaging Segment [Member] Metals Segment Metals Segment [Member] Metals Segment [Member] Real Estate Segment Real Estate Segment [Member] Real Estate Segment [Member] Home Fashion Segment Home Fashion Segment [Member] Home Fashion Segment [Member] Mining Segment Mining segment [Member] Mining Segment [Member] Other Segments and Holding Company Other Segments and Holding Company [Member] Other Segments and Holding Company [Member] Automotive, Food Packaging and Home Fashion Segments Automotive, Food Packaging and Home Fashion Segments [Member] [Member] Automotive, Food Packaging and Home Fashion Segments [Member] [Member] Organization, Consolidation and Presentation of Financial Statements [Line Items] Organization, Consolidation and Presentation of Financial Statements [Line Items] [Line Items] for Organization, Consolidation and Presentation of Financial Statements [Table] Consolidation, Policy [Policy Text Block] Consolidation, Policy [Policy Text Block] Equity Method Investments [Policy Text Block] Equity Method Investments [Policy Text Block] Held for sale policy [Policy Text Block] Held for sale policy [Policy Text Block] Held for sale policy Use of Estimates, Policy [Policy Text Block] Use of Estimates, Policy [Policy Text Block] Reclassification, Policy [Policy Text Block] Reclassification, Policy [Policy Text Block] Consolidation, Variable Interest Entity, Policy [Policy Text Block] Consolidation, Variable Interest Entity, Policy [Policy Text Block] Business Combinations Policy [Policy Text Block] Business Combinations Policy [Policy Text Block] Common control acquisitions and dispositions [Policy Text Block] Common control acquisitions and dispositions [Policy Text Block] Common control acquisitions and dispositions Statement of cash flow, policy [Policy Text Block] Statement of cash flow, policy [Policy Text Block] Statement of cash flow, policy [Policy Text Block] Cash and Cash Equivalents, Policy [Policy Text Block] Cash and Cash Equivalents, Policy [Policy Text Block] Cash and Cash Equivalents, Restricted Cash and Cash Equivalents, Policy [Policy Text Block] Cash and Cash Equivalents, Restricted Cash and Cash Equivalents, Policy [Policy Text Block] Investment, Policy [Policy Text Block] Investment, Policy [Policy Text Block] Foreign Currency Transactions and Translations Policy [Policy Text Block] Foreign Currency Transactions and Translations Policy [Policy Text Block] Fair Value of Financial Instruments, Policy [Policy Text Block] Fair Value of Financial Instruments, Policy [Policy Text Block] Securities sold, not yet purchased [Policy Text Block] Securities sold, not yet purchased [Policy Text Block] Securities sold, not yet purchased [Policy Text Block] Due to and from Broker [Policy Text Block] Due to and from Broker [Policy Text Block] Due to and from Broker [Policy Text Block] Derivatives, Policy [Policy Text Block] Derivatives, Policy [Policy Text Block] Trade and Other Accounts Receivable, Policy [Policy Text Block] Trade and Other Accounts Receivable, Policy [Policy Text Block] Inventory, Policy [Policy Text Block] Inventory, Policy [Policy Text Block] Property, Plant and Equipment, Policy [Policy Text Block] Property, Plant and Equipment, Policy [Policy Text Block] Property, Plant and Equipment, Planned Major Maintenance Activities, Policy [Policy Text Block] Property, Plant and Equipment, Planned Major Maintenance Activities, Policy [Policy Text Block] Mining exploration and evaluation expenditures, Policy [Policy Text Block] Mining exploration and evaluation expenditures, Policy [Policy Text Block] Mining exploration and evaluation expenditures, Policy [Policy Text Block] Goodwill and Intangible Assets, Policy [Policy Text Block] Goodwill and Intangible Assets, Policy [Policy Text Block] Impairment or Disposal of Long-Lived Assets, Policy [Policy Text Block] Impairment or Disposal of Long-Lived Assets, Policy [Policy Text Block] Pension and Other Postretirement Plans, Policy [Policy Text Block] Pension and Other Postretirement Plans, Policy [Policy Text Block] Allocation of profits and losses in consolidated affiliated partnerships [Policy Text Block] Allocation of profits and losses in consolidated affiliated partnerships [Policy Text Block] Allocation of profits and losses in consolidated affiliated partnerships [Policy Text Block] General partnership policy [Policy Text Block] General partnership policy [Policy Text Block] General partnership policy in the Company Earnings Per Share, Policy [Policy Text Block] Earnings Per Share, Policy [Policy Text Block] Income Tax, Policy [Policy Text Block] Income Tax, Policy [Policy Text Block] Revenue Recognition, Policy [Policy Text Block] Revenue Recognition, Policy [Policy Text Block] Revenue Recognition, Incentives [Policy Text Block] Revenue Recognition, Incentives [Policy Text Block] Shipping and Handling Cost, Policy [Policy Text Block] Shipping and Handling Cost, Policy [Policy Text Block] Environmental Costs, Policy [Policy Text Block] Environmental Costs, Policy [Policy Text Block] Commitments and Contingencies, Policy [Policy Text Block] Commitments and Contingencies, Policy [Policy Text Block] New Accounting Pronouncements, Policy [Policy Text Block] New Accounting Pronouncements, Policy [Policy Text Block] Description of New Accounting Pronouncements Not yet Adopted [Text Block] Description of New Accounting Pronouncements Not yet Adopted [Text Block] Property, Plant and Equipment [Abstract] Schedule of Property, Plant and Equipment, Net Property, Plant and Equipment [Table Text Block] Segment Reporting [Abstract] Segment and Geographic Reporting Segment Reporting Disclosure [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 Herbalife [Member] Herbalife [Member] Hertz Hertz [Member] Hertz Investment Sector [Axis] Investment Sector [Axis] Investment Sector [Domain] Investment Sector [Domain] Basic materials Basic Materials [Member] Basic Materials [Member] Consumer, non-cyclical Consumer, non-cyclical [Member] Consumer, non-cyclical [Member] Consumer, cyclical Consumer, cyclical [Member] Consumer, cyclical [Member] Energy Energy sector [Member] Energy sector [Member] Financial Financial [Member] Financial [Member] Industrial Industrial [Member] Industrial [Member] Technology Technology [Member] Technology [Member] Other sectors Other [Member] Other Investment Type [Axis] Investment Type [Axis] Investments [Domain] Investments [Domain] Equity securities Equity Securities [Member] Debt securities Debt 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 unrealized (losses) gains that relates to equity and debt securities still held Debt and Equity Securities, Unrealized Gain (Loss) Ownership percentage in equity method investment Equity Method Investment, Ownership Percentage Unrealized gain on equity method investments under fair value option Unrealized gain on equity method investments under fair value option Unrealized gain (loss) on equity method investments 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 of Equity Method Investment Under Fair Value Option Property, Plant and Equipment, Net Property, Plant and Equipment Disclosure [Text Block] Financial Instruments [Abstract] Financial Instruments [Abstract] Fair Values Derivatives, Balance Sheet Location, by Derivative Contract Type [Table] Fair Values Derivatives, Balance Sheet Location, by Derivative Contract Type [Table] Income Statement Location [Axis] Income Statement Location [Axis] Income Statement Location [Domain] Income Statement Location [Domain] Other Operating Income (Expense) [Member] Other Operating Income (Expense) [Member] Hedging Designation [Axis] Hedging Designation [Axis] Hedging Designation [Domain] Hedging Designation [Domain] Not designated as hedging instrument Not Designated as Hedging Instrument [Member] Derivative Instrument Risk [Axis] Derivative Instrument [Axis] Derivative Contract Type [Domain] Derivative Contract [Domain] Credit Default Swap [Member] Credit Default Swap [Member] Equity contracts Equity Contract [Member] Foreign exchange contracts Foreign Exchange Contract [Member] Credit contracts Credit Risk Contract [Member] Commodity contracts Commodity Contract [Member] Balance Sheet Location [Axis] Balance Sheet Location [Axis] Balance Sheet Location [Domain] Balance Sheet Location [Domain] Other assets Other Assets [Member] Accrued expenses and other liabilities Accrued Expenses and Other Liabilities [Member] Accrued Expenses and Other Liabilities [Member] 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] Notional Exposure of Derivatives, Long Position 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 Derivative, Notional Amount Derivative, Notional Amount Asset derivatives, Gross Derivative Asset, Fair Value, Gross Asset Liability derivatives, Gross Derivative Liability, Fair Value, Gross Liability Derivative, Fair Value, Amount Offset Against Collateral, Net Derivative, Fair Value, Amount Offset Against Collateral, Net Derivative contracts, at fair value(1) Derivative Asset Derivative contracts, at fair value (Note 6) Derivative Liability Collateral posted on certain derivative positions Collateral Already Posted, Aggregate Fair Value Derivative gain (loss) recognized in income Derivative Instruments Not Designated as Hedging Instruments, Gain (Loss), Net Pension, Other Post-Retirement Benefits and Employee Benefit Plans. [Abstract] Pension, Other Post-Retirement Benefits and Employee Benefit Plans. [Abstract] Pension and Other Postretirement Benefits Disclosure [Text Block] Pension and Other Postretirement Benefits Disclosure [Text Block] Equity method investments Equity Method Investments [Member] Other investments Other Investments [Member] Portion of unrealized (losses) gains that relates to equity securities still held Equity Securities, FV-NI, Unrealized Gain (Loss) Description of Business [Abstract] Description of Business [Abstract] Description of Business [Table] Description of Business [Table] Description of Business Subsequent Event Type [Axis] Subsequent Event Type [Axis] Subsequent Event Type [Domain] Subsequent Event Type [Domain] Subsequent event Subsequent Event [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] Mr. Icahn and affiliates Principal Owners and Affiliates [Member] Mr. Icahn and certain other entities beneficially owned by Mr. Icahn Icahn Enterprises G.P. Icahn Enterprises G.P. [Member] Icahn Enterprises G.P. [Member] Legal Entity [Axis] Legal Entity [Axis] Entity [Domain] Entity [Domain] Icahn Enterprises Holdings Icahn Enterprises Holdings [Member] Icahn Enterprises Holdings [Member] Investment Funds 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. CVR Refining CVR Refining, LP [Member] CVR Refining, LP [Member] CVR Nitrogen CVR Nitrogen [Member] CVR Nitrogen [Member] CVR Partners CVR Partners, LP [Member] CVR Partners, LP [Member] CVR Energy CVR Energy, Inc. [Member] CVR Energy, Inc. [Member] ADS and Precision Tune AAMCO and Precision Tune [Member] AAMCO and Precision Tune Pep Boys Pep Boys [Member] Pep Boys [Member] Viskase Viskase [Member] Viskase [Member] ARL ARL [Member] ARL [Member] Ferrous Resources Ferrous Resources [Member] Ferrous Resources [Member] Federal-Mogul Federal-Mogul [Member] Federal-Mogul [Member] Tropicana Tropicana [Member] Tropicana [Member] ARI ARI [Member] ARI [Member] Railcar Segment Railcar Segment [Member] Railcar Segment [Member] SEC Schedule, 12-29, Real Estate Companies, Investment in Mortgage Loans on Real Estate, Loan Category [Axis] SEC Schedule, 12-29, Real Estate Companies, Investment in Mortgage Loans on Real Estate, Loan Category [Axis] SEC Schedule, 12-29, Real Estate Companies, Investment in Mortgage Loans on Real Estate, Loan Category [Domain] SEC Schedule, 12-29, Real Estate Companies, Investment in Mortgage Loans on Real Estate, Loan Category [Domain] First Mortgage First Mortgage [Member] Second Mortgage Second Mortgage [Member] Description of Business [Line Items] Description of Business [Line Items] [Line Items] for Description of Business 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 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 Limited Liability Company or Limited Partnership, Members or Limited Partners, Ownership Interest Fair value of investment in 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. Common units validly tendered and not properly withdrawn Common units validly tendered and not properly withdrawn Common units validly tendered and not properly withdrawn Equity issued to acquire additional interest in consolidated subsidiary (number of units) Business Acquisition, Equity Interest Issued or Issuable, Number of Shares Change in equity as a result of acquisition of additional interest in consolidated subsidiary Consolidation, Less than Wholly Owned Subsidiary, Parent Ownership Interest, Changes, Issuance of Equity by Subsidiary to Noncontrolling Interests Purchase of additional interests in consolidated subsidiaries Payments to Acquire Additional Interest in Subsidiaries Fair value of subsidiary common units issued in a business combination Business Combination, Consideration Transferred, Equity Interests Issued and Issuable Payments to acquire businesses Payments to Acquire Businesses, Gross Fair value of debt assumed in business combination Business Combination, Consideration Transferred, Liabilities Incurred Total consideration for acquisition of business Business Combination, Consideration Transferred Proceeds from rights offering Proceeds From Rights Offering Proceeds From Rights Offering Contribution to subsidiary Contribution to subsidiary Contribution to subsidiary Gain on disposition of assets, net Gain (Loss) on Disposition of Assets Proceeds from disposition of businesses and assets Proceeds from Sales of Business, Affiliate and Productive Assets Seller financing secured mortgages resulting from disposition of assets Other Significant Noncash Transaction, Value of Consideration Received Total consideration received from sale of asset Total consideration received from sale of asset Total consideration received from sale of asset Aggregate consideration for business to be disposed of Aggregate consideration for business to be disposed of Aggregate consideration for business to be disposed of aggregate consideration for business disposed of aggregate consideration for business disposed of aggregate consideration for business disposed of consideration in shares for business disposed of consideration in shares for business disposed of consideration in shares for business disposed of consideration in non-voting shares for business disposed of consideration in non-voting shares for business disposed of consideration in non-voting shares for business disposed of consideration in voting shares for business disposed of consideration in voting shares for business disposed of consideration in voting shares for business disposed of investment, ownership percentage investment, ownership percentage Ownership percentage in a non-consolidated entity by non-controlling owner fair market value of shares obtained as consideration for business disposed of fair market value of shares obtained as consideration for business disposed of fair market value of shares obtained as consideration for business disposed of Subsidiary repurchase of treasury stock Subsidiary repurchase of treasury stock Subsidiary repurchase of treasury stock Goodwill and Intangible Assets Disclosure [Abstract] Intangible Assets, Finite-Lived, Policy [Policy Text Block] Intangible Assets, Finite-Lived, Policy [Policy Text Block] Commitments and Contingencies Disclosure [Abstract] Long-term Purchase Commitment [Table] Long-term Purchase Commitment [Table] Long-term Purchase Commitment [Line Items] Long-term Purchase Commitment [Line Items] Contractual Obligation, Fiscal Year Maturity Schedule Contractual Obligation, Fiscal Year Maturity Schedule [Table Text Block] Schedule of Future Minimum Rental Payments for Operating Leases Schedule of Future Minimum Rental Payments for Operating Leases [Table Text Block] Discontinued Operations [Abstract] Discontinued Operations [Abstract] Disposal Groups, Including Discontinued Operations [Table] Disposal Groups, Including Discontinued Operations [Table] Disposal Group Name [Axis] Disposal Group Name [Axis] Disposal Group Name [Domain] Disposal Group Name [Domain] American Railcar Industries American Railcar Industries [Member] American Railcar Industries [Member] Disposal Group Classification [Axis] Disposal Group Classification [Axis] Disposal Group Classification [Domain] Disposal Group Classification [Domain] Discontinued operations and held for sale Discontinued Operations, Held-for-sale or Disposed of by Sale [Member] Income Statement, Balance Sheet and Additional Disclosures by Disposal Groups, Including Discontinued Operations [Line Items] Income Statement, Balance Sheet and Additional Disclosures by Disposal Groups, Including Discontinued Operations [Line Items] Net sales Disposal group, including discontinued operation, net sales Disposal group, including discontinued operation, net sales Other revenues from operations Disposal group, including discontinued operation, other revenues from operations Disposal group, including discontinued operation, other revenues from operations Net gain on investment activities Disposal group, including discontinued operation, net gains on investment activities Disposal group, including discontinued operation, net gains on investment activities Interest and dividend income Disposal Group, Including Discontinued Operation, Interest Income Gain (loss) on disposition of assets, net Disposal group, including discontinued operation, gain (loss) on disposition of assets Disposal group, including discontinued operation, gain (loss) on disposition of assets Other income, net Disposal Group, Including Discontinued Operation, Other Income (Loss) Amount of other income (loss) attributable to disposal group, including, but not limited to, discontinued operation. Revenue Disposal Group, Including Discontinued Operation, Revenue Cost of goods sold Disposal Group, Including Discontinued Operation, Costs of Goods Sold Other expenses from operations Disposal group, including discontinued operations, other expenses from operations Disposal group, including discontinued operations, other expenses from operations Selling, general and administrative Disposal Group, Including Discontinued Operation, General and Administrative Expense Restructuring, net Disposal group, including discontinued operation, restructuring, net Disposal group, including discontinued operation, restructuring, net Impairment Disposal group, including discontinued operation, impairment Disposal group, including discontinued operation, impairment Interest expense Disposal Group, Including Discontinued Operation, Interest Expense Costs and expenses Disposal group, including discontinued operation, costs and expenses Disposal group, including discontinued operation, costs and expenses Income (loss) from discontinued operations before gain (loss) on sale and income tax (expense) benefit Discontinued Operation, Income (Loss) from Discontinued Operations, before gain (loss) on sale and Income Tax Discontinued Operation, Income (Loss) from Discontinued Operations, before gain (loss) on sale and Income Tax Gain (loss) on sale of discontinued operations Disposal group, including discontinued operation, gain (loss) on sale of discontinued operations Disposal group, including discontinued operation, gain (loss) on sale of discontinued operations Income (loss) from discontinued operations before income tax (expense) benefit Discontinued Operation, Income (Loss) from Discontinued Operation, before Income Tax Income tax (expense) benefit Discontinued Operation, Tax Effect of Discontinued Operation Income (loss) from discontinued operations Income (Loss) from Discontinued Operations, Net of Tax, Including Portion Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest Less: income from discontinued operations attributable to non-controlling interests Income (Loss) from Discontinued Operations, Net of Tax, Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest Income (loss) from discontinued operations attributable to Icahn Enterprises Income (Loss) from Discontinued Operations, Net of Tax, Attributable to Parent Capital expenditures Capital Expenditure, Discontinued Operations Depreciation and amortization Depreciation and Amortization, Discontinued Operations Loss Contingencies [Table] Loss Contingencies [Table] Loss Contingencies [Line Items] Loss Contingencies [Line Items] Unconditional purchase obligations Purchase Obligation, Fiscal Year Maturity [Abstract] 2019 Unrecorded Unconditional Purchase Obligation, Due in Next Twelve Months 2020 Unrecorded Unconditional Purchase Obligation, Due within Two Years 2021 Unrecorded Unconditional Purchase Obligation, Due within Three Years 2022 Unrecorded Unconditional Purchase Obligation, Due within Four Years 2023 Unrecorded Unconditional Purchase Obligation, Due within Five Years Thereafter Unrecorded Unconditional Purchase Obligation, Due after Five Years Minimum required payments for unconditional purchase obligations Unrecorded Unconditional Purchase Obligation Amounts purchased under supply agreements Amounts purchased under supply agreements Amounts purchased under supply agreements Consolidated operating leases future minimum payments due Operating Leases, Future Minimum Payments Due, Fiscal Year Maturity [Abstract] 2019 Operating Leases, Future Minimum Payments Due, Next Twelve Months 2020 Operating Leases, Future Minimum Payments, Due in Two Years 2021 Operating Leases, Future Minimum Payments, Due in Three Years 2022 Operating Leases, Future Minimum Payments, Due in Four Years 2023 Operating Leases, Future Minimum Payments, Due in Five Years Thereafter Operating Leases, Future Minimum Payments, Due Thereafter Future minimum payments under operating leases Operating Leases, Future Minimum Payments Due Rent expense Operating Leases, Rent Expense, Net Description of Business and Basis of Presentation Organization, Consolidation and Presentation of Financial Statements Disclosure [Text Block] Schedule of Condensed Financial Statements [Table] Condensed Financial Statements [Table] Initial Application Period Cumulative Effect Transition [Axis] Initial Application Period Cumulative Effect Transition [Axis] Initial Application Period Cumulative Effect Transition [Domain] Initial Application Period Cumulative Effect Transition [Domain] Difference between Revenue Guidance in Effect before and after Topic 606 Difference between Revenue Guidance in Effect before and after Topic 606 [Member] Contract with Customer, Sales Channel [Axis] Contract with Customer, Sales Channel [Axis] Contract with Customer, Sales Channel [Domain] Contract with Customer, Sales Channel [Domain] Petroleum products Petroleum Products [Member] Nitrogen fertilizer products Nitrogen fertilizer products [Member] Nitrogen fertilizer products [Member] Automotive services Automotive services revenue [Member] Automotive services revenue Aftermarket parts sales Parts net sales [Member] Parts net sales [Member] Holding Company Holding Company [Member] Holding Company [Member] Segment Reporting Information [Line Items] Segment Reporting Information [Line Items] Revenues: Revenues [Abstract] Net sales Net sales Net sales Other revenues from operations Other operating revenue Other operating revenue Net gain (loss) from investment activities Gain (Loss) on Investments, Excluding Other than Temporary Impairments Interest and dividend income Interest and Dividend Income, Operating Other (loss) income, net Other Nonoperating Income (Expense) Total revenues Revenues Expenses: Costs and Expenses [Abstract] Cost of goods sold Cost of goods sold (new) 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 Impairment Asset Impairment Charges Interest expense Interest Expense Total Expenses Costs and Expenses Income (loss) before income tax benefit Income (Loss) from Continuing Operations before Income Taxes, Noncontrolling Interest Income tax benefit Income Tax Expense (Benefit) Income (loss) from continuing operations Income (Loss) from Continuing Operations, Net of Tax, Including Portion Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest Income (Loss) from Continuing Operations, Net of Tax, Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest Income (Loss) from Continuing Operations, Net of Tax, Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest Income (Loss) from Continuing Operations, Net of Tax, Attributable to Parent Income (Loss) from Continuing Operations, Net of Tax, Attributable to Parent Supplemental information: Supplemental Income Statement Elements [Abstract] Capital expenditures Payments to Acquire Property, Plant, and Equipment Depreciation and amortization Depreciation, Depletion and Amortization Disaggregated revenue Revenue from Contract with Customer, Excluding Assessed Tax Defined Benefit Plans and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans Disclosures [Table] Defined Benefit Plans and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans Disclosures [Table] Asset Class [Axis] Asset Class [Axis] Asset Class [Domain] Asset Class [Domain] Cash and cash equivalents Cash and Cash Equivalents [Member] Government debt securities Debt, State Government [Member] Exchange traded funds Exchange Traded Funds [Member] Mutual funds Mutual Fund [Member] Common stock Common Stock [Member] Measurement Frequency [Axis] Measurement Frequency [Axis] Fair Value, Measurement Frequency [Domain] Fair Value, Measurement Frequency [Domain] Recurring measurement Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member] Fair Value Hierarchy and NAV [Axis] Fair Value Hierarchy and NAV [Axis] Fair Value Hierarchy and NAV [Domain] Fair Value Hierarchy and NAV [Domain] Level 1 Fair Value, Inputs, Level 1 [Member] Level 2 Fair Value, Inputs, Level 2 [Member] Fair Value Measured at Net Asset Value Per Share Fair Value Measured at Net Asset Value Per Share [Member] Retirement Plan Type [Axis] Retirement Plan Type [Axis] Retirement Plan Type [Domain] Retirement Plan Type [Domain] U.S. and Non-U.S. Pension Plans Pension Plan [Member] Defined Benefit Plans and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans Table Text Block [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 (Loss) on Plan Assets Amortization of actuarial losses Defined Benefit Plan, Amortization of Gain (Loss) Settlement loss recognized Defined Benefit Plan, Net Periodic Benefit Cost (Credit), Gain (Loss) Due to Settlement Defined Benefit Plan, Net Periodic Benefit Cost (Credit) Defined Benefit Plan, Net Periodic Benefit Cost (Credit) Benefit obligation Defined Benefit Plan, Benefit Obligation Benefits paid Defined Benefit Plan, Benefit Obligation, Benefits Paid Actuarial (gain) loss Defined Benefit Plan, Benefit Obligation, Actuarial Gain (Loss) Plan settlements Defined Benefit Plan, Benefit Obligation, (Increase) Decrease for Settlement Increase due to acquisitions Defined Benefit Plan, Benefit Obligation, Business Combination Currency translation Defined Benefit Plan, Benefit Obligation, Foreign Currency Translation Gain (Loss) Actual return on plan assets Defined Benefit Plan, Plan Assets, Increase (Decrease) for Actual Return (Loss) Employer contributions Defined Benefit Plan, Plan Assets, Contributions by Employer Plan settlements Defined Benefit Plan, Plan Assets, Payment for Settlement Benefits paid Defined Benefit Plan, Plan Assets, Benefits Paid Plan Assets Defined Benefit Plan, Plan Assets, Amount Funded status of the plan and amounts recognized in the consolidated balance sheets Defined Benefit Plan, Funded (Unfunded) Status of Plan Amounts recognized in accumulated other comprehensive loss, inclusive of tax impacts Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Defined Benefit Plan, Gain (Loss), after Tax Investments measured at net asset value Defined Benefits Plan, Plan Assets, Investments measured at net asset value Defined Benefits Plan, Plan Assets, Investments measured at net asset value Plan assets measured at fair value Defined Benefit Plan, Plan assets measured at fair value Defined Benefit Plan, Plan assets measured at fair value Earnings Per Unit [Abstract] Schedule Of Earnings Per LP Unit Schedule of Earnings Per Share, Basic and Diluted [Table Text Block] Schedule Of Earnings Per LP Unit [Table] Schedule Of Earnings Per LP Unit [Table] Schedule Of Earnings Per LP Unit [Table] Limited partners Limited Partner [Member] General partner General Partner [Member] Partner Type [Axis] Partner Type [Axis] Partner Type of Partners' Capital Account, Name [Domain] Partner Type of Partners' Capital Account, Name [Domain] 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 from continuing operations Net income (loss) attributable to Icahn Enterprises from discontinued operations Less: net loss attributable to Icahn Enterprises from discontinued operations allocated 100% to general partner Net loss attributable to Icahn Enterprises from discontinued operations special allocation Net loss attributable to Icahn Enterprises from discontinued operations special allocation Net income (loss) attributable to Icahn Enterprises from discontinued operations allocable to limited partners Net income (loss) attributable to Icahn Enterprises from discontinued operations allocable to limited partners Net income (loss) attributable to Icahn Enterprises from discontinued operations allocable to limited partners Basic income (loss) per LP unit: Net Income (Loss), Per Outstanding Limited Partnership Unit, Basic, Net of Tax [Abstract] Continuing operations Income (Loss) from Continuing Operations, Per Outstanding Limited Partnership Unit, Basic, Net of Tax Discontinued operations Income (Loss) from Discontinued Operations, Net of Tax, Per Outstanding Limited Partnership Unit, Basic Basic income (loss) 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 income (loss) per LP unit: Earnings Per Share, Diluted [Abstract] Continuing operations Income (Loss) from Continuing Operations, Net of Tax, Per Outstanding Limited Partnership Unit, Diluted Discontinued operations Income (Loss) from Discontinued Operations, Net of Tax, Per Outstanding Limited Partnership Unit, Diluted Diluted income (loss) 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 Units distributed to LP unitholders Distribution Made to Limited Partner, Unit Distribution 2017 LTIP units vested Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Vested in Period Depositary units issued (value) Stock Issued During Period, Value, New Issues Subsequent Events [Abstract] Subsequent Events Subsequent Events [Text Block] Commodity contracts not considered probable of settlement Commodity contracts not considered probable of settlement [Member] Commodity contracts not considered probable of settlement Derivatives, Fair Value [Line Items] Derivatives, Fair Value [Line Items] Fair value of derivative instruments with credit risk related contingent features in a liability position Credit Risk Derivative Liabilities, at Fair Value Derivative volume (barrels) Derivative, Nonmonetary Notional Amount, Volume Debt designated as net investment in foreign operations Derivative Instruments in Hedges, Net Investment in Foreign Operations, Liabilities, Fair Value Loss recognized in AOCI Gain (Loss) on Derivative Used in Net Investment Hedge, after Tax Schedule I - Condensed Financial Information of Parent [Abstract] Schedule I - Condensed Financial Information of Parent [Abstract] Schedule of Condensed Financial Information of Parent Company [Table] Schedule of Condensed Financial Information of Parent Company [Table] Schedule of Condensed Financial Information of Parent Company [Table] Consolidated Entities [Axis] Consolidated Entities [Axis] Consolidated Entities [Domain] Consolidated Entities [Domain] Icahn Enterprises (Parent) Parent Company [Member] Icahn Enterprises Holdings (Parent) Guarantor Subsidiaries [Member] Condensed Financial Statements, Captions [Line Items] Condensed Financial Statements, Captions [Line Items] Financial Statement Schedule, Parent Company Balance Sheet [Table Text Block] Financial Statement Schedule, Parent Company Balance Sheet [Table Text Block] Financial Statement Schedule, Parent Company Balance Sheet [Table Text Block] Financial Statement Schedule, Parent Company Statement of Operations [Table Text Block] Financial Statement Schedule, Parent Company Statement of Operations [Table Text Block] Financial Statement Schedule, Parent Company Statement of Operations [Table Text Block] Financial Statement Schedule, Parent Company Statement of Cash Flows [Table Text Block] Financial Statement Schedule, Parent Company Statement of Cash Flows [Table Text Block] Financial Statement Schedule, Parent Company Statement of Cash Flows [Table Text Block] Financial Statement Schedule, Parent Company Debt Note [Table Text Block] Financial Statement Schedule, Parent Company Debt Note [Table Text Block] Financial Statement Schedule, Parent Company Debt Note [Table Text Block] Disaggregation of Revenue [Table] Disaggregation of Revenue [Table] Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items] Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items] Schedule of Condensed Income Statement by Segment Condensed Income Statement [Table Text Block] Disaggregation of Revenue [Table Text Block] Disaggregation of Revenue [Table Text Block] Schedule of Condensed Financial Statements by Segment Condensed Balance Sheet [Table Text Block] Geographic Information Schedule of Revenue from External Customers and Long-Lived Assets, by Geographical Areas [Table Text Block] Fair Value Disclosures [Abstract] Assets measured at fair value on a recurring basis Schedule of Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring Basis [Table Text Block] Assets measured at fair value on a recurring basis for which we use Level 3 inputs to determine fair value Fair Value, Assets Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation [Table Text Block] Statement of Comprehensive Income [Abstract] Statement [Table] Statement [Table] Statement [Line Items] Statement [Line Items] Net income (loss) Net Income (Loss), Including Portion Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest Other comprehensive (loss) income, net of tax: Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax [Abstract] Post-retirement benefits Other Comprehensive (Income) Loss, Defined Benefit Plan, after Reclassification Adjustment, after Tax Hedge instruments Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Derivatives Qualifying as Hedges, Net of Tax Translation adjustments and other 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 (loss) income, net of tax Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax 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 allocated to: Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax, Attributable to Parent [Abstract] 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] Income from discontinued operations Adjustments to reconcile net income (loss) to net cash provided by (used in) 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 Gain on disposition of assets, net Deferred taxes Increase (Decrease) in Deferred Income Taxes Other, net Other Operating Activities, Cash Flow Statement Accounts receivable, net Increase (Decrease) in Accounts Receivable Inventories, net Increase (Decrease) in Inventories Other assets Increase (Decrease) in Other Operating Assets Accounts payable Increase (Decrease) in Accounts Payable Unrealized loss on derivative contracts Increase (Decrease) in Derivative Liabilities Accrued expenses and other liabilities Increase (Decrease) in Other Accrued Liabilities Net cash provided by (used in) operating activities from continuing operations Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Operating Activities, Continuing Operations Net cash provided by operating activities from discontinued operations Cash Provided by (Used in) Operating Activities, Discontinued Operations Net cash provided by (used in) 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 Acquisitions of businesses, net of cash acquired Payments to Acquire Businesses, Net of Cash Acquired Purchase of additional interests in consolidated subsidiaries Other, net Payments for (Proceeds from) Other Investing Activities Net cash provided by (used in) investing activities from continuing operations Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Investing Activities, Continuing Operations Net cash used in investing activities from discontinued operations Cash Provided by (Used in) Investing Activities, Discontinued Operations Net cash provided by (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] Investment segment contributions from non-controlling interests Proceeds from Investment segment contributions Proceeds from Investment segment contributions Investment segment distributions from non-controlling interests Payment for Investment segment distributions Payment for Investment segment distributions Partnership contributions Proceeds from Partnership Contribution Partnership distributions Payments of Dividends Proceeds from subsidiary equity offerings Proceeds from subsidiary equity issuance Proceeds from subsidiary equity issuance Dividends and distributions to non-controlling interests in subsidiaries Payments to Noncontrolling Interests Proceeds from issuance of senior unsecured notes Proceeds from Issuance of Unsecured Debt Repayments of senior unsecured notes Repayments of Unsecured Debt Proceeds from other borrowings Proceeds from Other Debt Repayments of borrowings Repayments of Debt and Capital Lease Obligations Other, net Proceeds from (Payments for) Other Financing Activities Net cash provided by financing activities from continuing operations Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Financing Activities, Continuing Operations Net cash used in financing activities from discontinued operations Cash Provided by (Used in) Financing Activities, Discontinued Operations 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 Add back change in cash and restricted 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 increase (decrease) in cash and cash equivalents and restricted cash and restricted cash equivalents Cash, Cash Equivalents, Restricted Cash and Restricted Cash Equivalents, Period Increase (Decrease), Including Exchange Rate Effect Cash and cash equivalents and restricted cash and restricted cash equivalents Cash, Cash Equivalents, Restricted Cash and Restricted Cash Equivalents Cash and cash equivalents and restricted cash and restricted cash equivalents Income Tax Disclosure [Abstract] Income Tax Contingency [Table] Income Tax Contingency [Table] Range [Axis] Range [Axis] Range [Domain] Range [Domain] Maximum Maximum [Member] Minimum Minimum [Member] Income Tax Authority [Axis] Income Tax Authority [Axis] Income Tax Authority [Domain] Income Tax Authority [Domain] Domestic tax authority Domestic Tax Authority [Member] Foreign tax authority Foreign Tax Authority [Member] Kansas KANSAS United States UNITED STATES Other Foreign countries Other Foreign countries [Member] Other Foreign countries [Member] American Entertainment Properties Corp. American Entertainment Properties Corp. [Member] American Entertainment Properties Corp. [Member] Income Tax Contingency [Line Items] Income Tax Contingency [Line Items] Book basis of net assets income tax disclosure, book basis of net assets income tax disclosure, book basis of net assets Book/tax basis difference income tax disclosure, different between book basis and tax basis of net assets income tax disclosure, different between book basis and tax basis of net assets Tax basis of net assets income tax disclosure, tax basis of net assets income tax disclosure, tax basis of net assets Domestic income (loss) from continuing operations before taxes Income (Loss) from Continuing Operations before Income Taxes, Domestic Foreign income (loss) from continuing operations before taxes Income (Loss) from Continuing Operations before Income Taxes, Foreign Income before income tax benefit (expense) Current income tax (expense) benefit Current Income Tax Expense (Benefit) Deferred income tax (expense) benefit Deferred Income Tax Expense (Benefit) Income tax benefit (expense) Deferred tax assets, Property, pland and equipment Deferred Tax Assets, Property, Plant and Equipment Deferred tax asset, net operating loss Deferred Tax Assets, Operating Loss Carryforwards deferred tax asset, Tax credits deferred tax asset, tax credits Amount before allocation of valuation allowances of deferred tax asset attributable to deductible temporary differences from tax credits. Deferred Tax Assets, Capital Loss Carryforwards Deferred Tax Assets, Capital Loss Carryforwards Deferred tax asset, Post-employment benefits, including pensions Deferred Tax Assets, Tax Deferred Expense, Compensation and Benefits, Postretirement Benefits Deferred tax asset, Other Deferred Tax Assets, Other Deferred tax assets, gross Deferred Tax Assets, Gross Deferred Tax Assets, Valuation Allowance Deferred Tax Assets, Valuation Allowance Deferred Tax Assets, Net of Valuation Allowance Deferred Tax Assets, Net of Valuation Allowance Deferred tax liabilities, Property, plant and equipment Deferred Tax Liabilities, Property, Plant and Equipment Deferred tax liabilities, Intangible assets Deferred Tax Liabilities, Intangible Assets Deferred tax liability, Investment in partnerships deferred tax liability, investment in partnerships deferred tax liability, investment in partnerships Deferred tax liabilities, Investment in U.S. subsidiaries deferred tax liabilities, investment in subsidiaries Amount before allocation of valuation allowances of deferred tax liabilities attributable to deductible temporary differences from the entity's investment in its subsidiaries. Deferred tax liabilities, Other Deferred Tax Liabilities, Other Deferred Tax Liabilities, Gross Deferred Tax Liabilities, Gross Deferred tax liabilities, net of deferred tax assets defered tax liabilities, net of deferred tax assets defered tax liabilities, net of deferred tax assets Deferred Tax Assets, Net Deferred Tax Assets, Net Deferred tax liability Deferred Tax Liabilities, Net Increase (decrease) in deferred tax asset valuation amount Valuation Allowance, Deferred Tax Asset, Increase (Decrease), Amount Deferred tax assets, Operating loss carryforwards, Subject to expiration Deferred Tax Assets, Operating Loss Carryforwards, Subject to Expiration Tax credits Income Tax Credits and Adjustments Operating loss carryforwards Operating Loss Carryforwards Operating Loss Carryforwards, Expiration Date Operating Loss Carryforwards, Expiration Date Undistributed earnings of foreign subsidiaries Undistributed Earnings of Foreign Subsidiaries U.S. Federal statutory corporate income tax rate Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation, at Federal Statutory Income Tax Rate, Percent Unrecognized tax benefits balance Unrecognized Tax Benefits Unrecognized Tax Benefits that Would Impact Effective Tax Rate Unrecognized Tax Benefits that Would Impact Effective Tax Rate Significant Change in Unrecognized Tax Benefits is Reasonably Possible, Amount of Unrecorded Benefit Significant Change in Unrecognized Tax Benefits is Reasonably Possible, Amount of Unrecorded Benefit Unrecognized Tax Benefits, Income Tax Penalties and Interest Accrued Unrecognized Tax Benefits, Income Tax Penalties and Interest Accrued Income tax expense related to interest and penalties related to unrecognized tax benefits Unrecognized Tax Benefits, Income Tax Penalties and Interest Expense 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] Subsequent Event [Table] Subsequent Event [Table] Subsequent Event [Line Items] Subsequent Event [Line Items] Distribution declared per LP unit Distribution Made to Limited Partner, Distributions Declared, Per Unit Condensed Financial Information Disclosure [Abstract] Condensed Financial Information of Parent Company - Debt Note Details [Table] Condensed Financial Information of Parent Company - Debt Note Details [Table] Condensed Financial Information of Parent Company - Debt Note Details [Table] Debt Instrument [Axis] Debt Instrument [Axis] Debt Instrument, Name [Domain] Debt Instrument, Name [Domain] 6.000% senior unsecured notes due 2020 2020 Notes [Member] 2020 Notes [Member] 5.875% senior unsecured notes due 2022 2022 Notes [Member] 2022 Notes [Member] 6.250% senior unsecured notes due 2022 New 2022 Notes [Member] New 2022 Notes 6.750% senior unsecured notes due 2024 2024 Notes [Member] 2024 Notes 6.375% senior unsecured notes due 2025 2025 Notes [Member] 2025 Notes Mortgages payable Mortgages [Member] Debt Debt and Capital Lease Obligations Aggregate cash dividends (received from) paid to Parent by consolidated subsidiaries SEC Schedule, 12-04, Cash Dividends Paid to Registrant, Consolidated Subsidiaries Debt Disclosure [Abstract] Schedule of Long-term Debt Instruments [Table] Schedule of Long-term Debt Instruments [Table] Reporting Segments Reporting Segments [Member] Reporting Segments Debt Instrument [Line Items] Debt Instrument [Line Items] Debt Supplemental Cash Flow Information [Abstract] Supplemental cash flow information [Table] Supplemental cash flow information [Table] Supplemental cash flow information [Table] Supplemental cash flow information [Line Items] Supplemental cash flow information [Line Items] [Line Items] for Supplemental cash flow information [Table] Cash payments for interest, net of amounts capitalized Interest Paid, Excluding Capitalized Interest, Operating Activities Net cash (receipts) payments for income taxes, net of refunds Income Taxes Paid, Net Capital expenditures included in accounts payable, accrued expenses and other liabilities Capital Expenditures Incurred but Not yet Paid Equity investment consideration received from sale of business Noncash or Part Noncash Divestiture, Amount of Consideration Received Acquisition of subsidiary common stock included in accrued expenses and other liabilities Noncash or Part Noncash Acquisition, Investments Acquired Investments in subsidiaries prior to acquiring a controlling interest Business Combination, Consideration Transferred, Including Equity Interest in Acquiree Held Prior to Combination Supplemental Cash Flow Cash Flow, Supplemental Disclosures [Text Block] Derivative [Table] Interest Rate Contract [Member] Interest Rate Contract [Member] Net gain (loss) from investment activities Net Gain from Investment Activities [Member] Net Gain from Investment Activities [Member] Derivative [Line Items] Accounting Policies [Table] Accounting Policies [Table] Accounting Policies Product and Service [Axis] Product and Service [Axis] Product and Service [Domain] Product and Service [Domain] Deferred Revenue Arrangement Type [Axis] Deferred Revenue Arrangement Type [Axis] Deferred Revenue [Domain] Deferred Revenue [Domain] Extended warranties Extended warranties [Member] Extended warranties [Member] Selling, general and administrative Selling, General and Administrative Expenses [Member] Other Income, net Other Income [Member] Statement of cash flow location [Axis] Statement of cash flow location [Axis] Statement of cash flow location [Axis] Statement of cash flow location [Domain] Statement of cash flow location [Domain] [Domain] for Statement of cash flow location [Axis] Net cash provided by operating activities Net cash provided by operating activities [Member] Net cash provided by operating activities [Member] Oil and Gas Production Type [Axis] Oil and Gas Production Type [Axis] Production Type [Domain] Production Type [Domain] Nitrogenous fertilizer manufacturing 325311 Nitrogenous Fertilizer Manufacturing [Member] Petroleum refineries 324110 Petroleum Refineries [Member] Debt Debt [Member] Restricted Cash and Cash Equivalents [Axis] Restricted Cash and Cash Equivalents [Axis] Cash and Cash Equivalents [Domain] Cash and Cash Equivalents [Domain] Cash held at consolidated affiliated partnerships [Member] Cash held at consolidated affiliated partnerships [Member] Cash held at consolidated affiliated partnerships Restricted cash Restricted cash [Member] Restricted cash Prior Period Reclassification Adjustment Prior Period Reclassification Adjustment Fair value of long-term debt Long-term Debt, Fair Value Cash held at consolidated affiliated partnerships and restricted cash Restricted Cash and Cash Equivalents Portion of inventory under LIFO method LIFO Inventory Amount Planned major maintenance, frequency (in years) Operating Expense, Plant Maintenance, Frequency, Years Operating Expense, Plant Maintenance, Frequency, Years Planned major maintenance Planned major maintenance Planned major maintenance Post-retirement benefit liability Liability, Retirement and Postemployment Benefits Accumulated other comprehensive loss Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax Performance obligation payment terms Revenue, Performance Obligation, Description of Payment Terms Remaining performance obligation for contracts with an original expected duration of more than one year Revenue, Remaining Performance Obligation, Amount Remaining performance obligation expected to be recognized as revenue within one year Revenue, current portion of remaining performance obligation Revenue, current portion of remaining performance obligation Deferred revenue Deferred Revenue Revenue recognition during period of previously deferred revenue Recognition of Deferred Revenue Deferred revenue expected to be earned within one year Deferred Revenue, Current Cumulative effect adjustment from adoption of accounting principal Cumulative Effect on Retained Earnings, Net of Tax Accounts receivable, net Accounts Receivable, Net Accrued expenses and other liabilities Accrued Liabilities Assets Assets Liabilities Liabilities Operating lease right-of-use asset Operating Lease, Right-of-Use Asset Operating lease liability Operating Lease, Liability Finance lease right-of-use asset Finance Lease, Right-of-Use Asset Other (Loss) Income, Net [Abstract] Other (Loss) Income, Net [Abstract] 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] Held for sale, not discontinued operations Disposal Group, Held-for-sale or Disposed of by Sale, Not Discontinued Operations [Member] Cash and cash equivalents Disposal Group, Including Discontinued Operation, Cash and Cash Equivalents Restricted cash Disposal group, including discontinued operation, restricted cash Disposal group, including discontinued operation, restricted cash Investments Disposal group, including discontinued operation, investments Disposal group, including discontinued operation, investments Accounts receivable, net Disposal group, including discontinued operation, accounts receivable, net Disposal group, including discontinued operation, accounts receivable, net Inventories, net Disposal Group, Including Discontinued Operation, Inventory Property, plant and equipment, net Disposal Group, Including Discontinued Operation, Property, Plant and Equipment Goodwill Disposal Group, Including Discontinued Operation, Goodwill Intangible assets, net Disposal Group, Including Discontinued Operation, Intangible Assets Other assets Disposal Group, Including Discontinued Operation, Other Assets Assets held for sale Disposal Group, Including Discontinued Operation, Assets Accounts payable, accrued expenses and other liabilities Disposal Group, Including Discontinued Operation, Accounts Payable and Accrued Liabilities Deferred tax liability Disposal Group, Including Discontinued Operation, Deferred Tax Liabilities Post-retirement benefit liability Disposal Group, Including Discontinued Operation, Postretirement Plan Benefit Obligation Debt Disposal group, including discontinued operation, debt Disposal group, including discontinued operation, debt Liabilities held for sale Disposal Group, Including Discontinued Operation, Liabilities Fair Value Measurements, Recurring and Nonrecurring [Table] Fair Value Measurements, Recurring and Nonrecurring [Table] Fair Value, Measurements, Nonrecurring [Member] Fair Value, Measurements, Nonrecurring [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] Impairment of Long-Lived Assets Held-for-use Impairment of Long-Lived Assets Held-for-use Inventory Write-down Inventory Write-down Impairment of Long-Lived Assets to be Disposed of Impairment of Long-Lived Assets to be Disposed of Fair value of asset measured on a recurring basis Fair Value, Measurement with Unobservable Inputs Reconciliation, Recurring Basis, Asset Value Schedule of Revenues from External Customers and Long-Lived Assets [Table] Schedule of Revenues from External Customers and Long-Lived Assets [Table] Geographical [Axis] Geographical [Axis] Geographical [Domain] Geographical [Domain] Other geographical locations Segment, geographic, Other [Member] Segment, geographic, Other [Member] Revenues from External Customers and Long-Lived Assets [Line Items] Revenues from External Customers and Long-Lived Assets [Line Items] Property, plant and equipment, net Property, Plant and Equipment, Net Inventory Disclosure [Abstract] Schedule of Inventory, Current [Table Text Block] Schedule of Inventory, Current [Table Text Block] Schedule of Long-term Debt Instruments Schedule of Long-term Debt Instruments [Table Text Block] Schedule of Maturities of Long-term Debt Schedule of Maturities of Long-term Debt [Table Text Block] Derivatives, Offsetting Fair Value Amounts, Policy [Policy Text Block] Derivatives, Offsetting Fair Value Amounts, Policy [Policy Text Block] Changes in Accumulated Other Comprehensive Loss [Abstract] Changes in Accumulated Other Comprehensive Loss [Abstract] Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) [Text Block] Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) [Text Block] Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) [Text Block] Commitments and Contingencies Commitments and Contingencies Disclosure [Text Block] Other (Loss) Income, Net Other Income and Other Expense Disclosure [Text Block] Schedule of Property, Plant and Equipment [Table] Property, Plant and Equipment [Table] 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] Long Lived Assets Held-for-sale by Asset Type [Axis] Long Lived Assets Held-for-sale by Asset Type [Axis] Long Lived Assets Held-for-sale, Name [Domain] Long Lived Assets Held-for-sale, Name [Domain] Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items] Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items] 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 Property, plant and equipment, useful life (in years) Property, Plant and Equipment, Useful Life 2019 Operating Leases, Future Minimum Payments Receivable, Current 2020 Operating Leases, Future Minimum Payments Receivable, in Two Years 2021 and thereafter Operating Leases, Future Minimum Payments Receivable, Thereafter Depreciation and amortization expense related to property, plant and equipment Depreciation Quarterly Financial Data (Unaudited) [Abstract] Quarterly Financial Data (Unaudited) [Abstract] Quarterly Financial Information Quarterly Financial Information [Text Block] Fair Value, Assets Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation [Table] Retirement Plan Sponsor Location [Axis] Retirement Plan Sponsor Location [Axis] Retirement Plan Sponsor Location [Domain] Retirement Plan Sponsor Location [Domain] Level 3 Fair Value, Inputs, Level 3 [Member] Fair value, measurement with unobservable inputs reconciliation, recurring basis, assets, unrealized gain (loss) Fair value, measurement with unobservable inputs reconciliation, recurring basis, assets, unrealized gain (loss) Fair value, measurement with unobservable inputs reconciliation, recurring basis, assets, unrealized gain (loss) Fair value, measurement with unobservable inputs reconciliation, recurring basis, assets, other Fair value, measurement with unobservable inputs reconciliation, recurring basis, assets, other Fair value, measurement with unobservable inputs reconciliation, recurring basis, assets, other Goodwill and Intangible Assets [Table] Goodwill and Intangible Assets [Table] Goodwill and Intangible Assets [Table] Reporting Unit [Axis] Reporting Unit [Axis] Reporting Unit [Domain] Reporting Unit [Domain] Automotive parts [Member] Automotive parts [Member] Automotive parts Goodwill and Intangible Assets [Line Items] Goodwill and Intangible Assets [Line Items] Goodwill and Intangible Assets [Line Items] Business combination, allocation to goodwill Goodwill, Acquired During Period Business combination, definite-lived intangible assets acquired Finite-lived Intangible Assets Acquired Amortization expense associated with definite-lived intangible assets Amortization of Intangible Assets Impairment of Intangible Assets (Excluding Goodwill) Impairment of Intangible Assets (Excluding Goodwill) 2019 Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Amortization Expense, Next Twelve Months 2020 Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Amortization Expense, Year Two 2021 Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Amortization Expense, Year Three 2022 Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Amortization Expense, Year Four 2023 Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Amortization Expense, Year Five Thereafter Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Amortization Expense, after Year Five Total estimated future amortization expense for definite-lived intangible assets Total Expected Future Amortization Total amount of amortization expense expected to be recognized for all periods after the fiscal year following the latest fiscal year for assets, excluding financial assets and goodwill, lacking physical substance with a finite life. Impairment of goodwill Goodwill, Impairment Loss Goodwill, Change in Goodwill Allocation, Description Reallocation of goodwill Reallocation of goodwill Goodwill Goodwill Statement of Financial Position [Abstract] 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 Components net periodic benefit cost (credit) Schedule of Net Benefit Costs [Table Text Block] Changes in benefit obligations and plan assets, and funded status of plans Schedule of Defined Benefit Plans Disclosures [Table Text Block] Defined benefit plan assets measured at fair value on a recurring basis Schedule of fair value of defined benefit plan asset [Table Text Block] Schedule of fair value of defined benefit plan asset [Table Text Block] Discontinued Operations. [Abstract] Discontinued Operations. [Abstract] Disposal Groups, Including Discontinued Operations [Table Text Block] Disposal Groups, Including Discontinued Operations [Table Text Block] Goodwill and Intangible Assets, Net Goodwill and Intangible Assets Disclosure [Text Block] Schedule of Variable Interest Entities Schedule of Variable Interest Entities [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] Schedule of Definite-Lived Intangible Assets, Future Amortization Expense Schedule of Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Future Amortization Expense [Table Text Block] 2019 Long-term Debt, Maturities, Repayments of Principal in Next Twelve Months 2020 Long-term Debt, Maturities, Repayments of Principal in Year Two 2021 Long-term Debt, Maturities, Repayments of Principal in Year Three 2022 Long-term Debt, Maturities, Repayments of Principal in Year Four 2023 Long-term Debt, Maturities, Repayments of Principal in Year Five Thereafter Long-term Debt, Maturities, Repayments of Principal after Year Five Future maturiites due on debt Future maturiites due on debt Amount of long-term debt, sinking fund requirements, and other securities redeemable at fixed or determinable prices and dates Unamortized discounts, premiums and deferred financing fees Debt Instrument, Unamortized Discount (Premium) and Debt Issuance Costs, Net Total Debt Determination of when transfers between fair value levels occurs Fair Value Transfer, Policy [Policy Text Block] Income Statement [Abstract] Other (loss) income, net Total revenues Total Expenses Income (loss) from continuing operations before income tax benefit Income (loss) from continuing operations Income from discontinued operations Net income (loss) Less: net income (loss) attributable to non-controlling interests Net Income (Loss) Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest Net income (loss) attributable to Icahn Enterprises Net Income (Loss) Attributable to Parent Net income (loss) attributable to Icahn Enterprises Net Income (Loss) Attributable to Parent [Abstract] Continuing operations Discontinued operations Limited partners Net Income (Loss) Allocated to Limited Partners General partner Net Income (Loss) Allocated to General Partners Net income (loss) attributable to Icahn Enterprises Cash distributions declared per LP unit Distributions Per Limited Partnership Unit Outstanding, Basic Income Taxes Income Tax Disclosure [Text Block] Debt Debt Disclosure [Text Block] difference in book basis and tax basis of net assets not subject to income taxes [Table Text Block] difference in book basis and tax basis of net assets not subject to income taxes [Table Text Block] difference in book basis and tax basis of net assets not subject to income taxes [Table Text Block] Schedule of Income before Income Tax, Domestic and Foreign [Table Text Block] Schedule of Income before Income Tax, Domestic and Foreign [Table Text Block] Schedule of Components of Income Tax Expense (Benefit) [Table Text Block] Schedule of Components of Income Tax Expense (Benefit) [Table Text Block] Schedule of Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation [Table Text Block] Schedule of Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation [Table Text Block] Schedule of Deferred Tax Assets and Liabilities [Table Text Block] Schedule of Deferred Tax Assets and Liabilities [Table Text Block] Schedule of Unrecognized Tax Benefits, Excluding Amounts Pertaining to Examined Tax Returns Roll Forward [Table Text Block] Schedule of Unrecognized Tax Benefits, Excluding Amounts Pertaining to Examined Tax Returns Roll Forward [Table Text Block] AOCI, Post-employment Benefits, net of tax Accumulated Other Comprehensive (Income) Loss, Defined Benefit Plan, after 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 Other Comprehensive (Income) Loss, Defined Benefit Plan, before Reclassification Adjustment, after Tax Other Comprehensive (Income) Loss, Defined Benefit Plan, before Reclassification Adjustment, after Tax Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Unrealized Gain (Loss) on Derivatives Arising During Period, Net of Tax Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Unrealized Gain (Loss) on Derivatives Arising During Period, 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, 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 Other Comprehensive (Income) Loss, Reclassification Adjustment from AOCI, Pension and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans, for Net (Gain) Loss, Net of Tax Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Defined Benefit Plan, Gain (Loss), Reclassification Adjustment from AOCI, after Tax Amount of Loss Reclassified from AOCI into Income (Effective Portion) Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss) Reclassified from Accumulated OCI into Income, Effective Portion, Net 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 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 Post-employment benefits Hedge instruments Translation adjustments and other other comprehensive income (loss), defined benefit plan, Gain (loss), Reclassification adjustment from disposition of consolidated subsidiaries other comprehensive income (loss), defined benefit plan, Gain (loss), Reclassification adjustment from disposition of consolidated subsidiaries other comprehensive income (loss), defined benefit plan, Gain (loss), Reclassification adjustment from disposition of consolidated subsidiaries Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss) reclassification from Accumulated OCI related to the Disposition of consolidated subsidiaries Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss) reclassification from Accumulated OCI related to the Disposition of consolidated subsidiaries Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss) reclassification from Accumulated OCI related to the Disposition of consolidated subsidiaries Reclassificaion of translation adjustments and other in AOCI due to disposition of consolidated subsidiaries Reclassificaion of translation adjustments and other in AOCI due to disposition of consolidated subsidiaries Reclassificaion of translation adjustments and other in AOCI due to disposition of consolidated subsidiaries Other comprehensive income, portion representing disposition of consolidated subsidiaries Other comprehensive income, portion representing disposition of consolidated subsidiaries Other comprehensive income, portion representing disposition of consolidated subsidiaries Condensed Financial Information of Parent Company Only Disclosure [Text Block] Condensed Financial Information of Parent Company Only Disclosure [Text Block] CVR 2022 Notes CVR 2022 Notes [Member] CVR 2022 Notes [Member] CVR Partners 2023 Notes CVR Partners 2023 Notes [Member] CVR Partners 2023 Notes [Member] Revolving credit facility Revolving Credit Facility [Member] CVR Refining credit facility CVR Refining Credit Facility [Member] CVR Refining Credit Facility [Member] IEP Auto Credit Facility IEP Auto Credit Facility [Member] IEP Auto Credit Facility [Member] Viskase credit facility Viskase credit facility [Member] Viskase credit facility Debt face amount Debt Instrument, Face Amount Interest rate on debt instrument Debt Instrument, Interest Rate, Stated Percentage Borrowing availability on credit facilities Line of Credit Facility, Remaining Borrowing Capacity Letters of credit outstanding Letters of Credit Outstanding, Amount Weighted average interest rate on debt Long-term Debt, Weighted Average Interest Rate, at Point in Time Amortization of deferred financing costs and debt discounts and premiums Amortization of Debt Issuance Costs and Discounts Schedule I - Statements of Cash Flows [Abstract] Schedule I - Statements of Cash Flows [Abstract] Schedule of Condensed Financial Information of Parent Company - Cash Flows [Table] Schedule of Condensed Financial Information of Parent Company - Cash Flows [Table] Schedule of Condensed Financial Information of Parent Company - Cash Flows [Table] Amortization of deferred financing costs Amortization of Debt Issuance Costs Loss on extinguishment of debt, non-cash Loss on extinguishment of debt, non-cash Loss on extinguishment of debt, non-cash Equity in (income) loss of subsidiary Income (Loss) from Equity Method Investments 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. Change in operating assets and liabilities Increase (Decrease) in Other Operating Assets and Liabilities, Net Net cash used in operating activities Net investment in subsidiaries Payments to Acquire Equity Method Investments Net cash provided by investing activities Partnership distributions Distribution Made to Limited Partner, Cash Distributions Paid Debt issuance costs Payments of Debt Issuance Costs Net cash (used in) provided by financing activities Net change in cash and cash equivalents and restricted cash and restricted cash equivalents Cash and cash equivalents and restricted cash and restricted cash equivalents Document and Entity Information [Abstract] Document and Entity Information [Abstract] Entities [Table] Entities [Table] Entity Information [Line Items] Entity Information [Line Items] 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 Emerging Growth Company Entity Emerging Growth Company Entity Shell Company Entity Shell Company Entity Common Stock, Shares Outstanding Entity Common Stock, Shares Outstanding Entity Small Business Entity Small Business Entity Well-known Seasoned Issuer Entity Well-known Seasoned Issuer Entity Voluntary Filers Entity Voluntary Filers Entity Current Reporting Status Entity Current Reporting Status Entity Public Float (in millions) Entity Public Float Net Income Per LP Unit Earnings Per Share [Text Block] Discontinued Operations Discontinued Operations [Member] ASSETS Assets [Abstract] Cash and cash equivalents Cash and Cash Equivalents, at Carrying Value Inventories, net Inventory, Net Goodwill and intangible assets, net Intangible Assets, Net (Including Goodwill) Assets held for sale Other assets Other Assets and Due from Correspondent Brokers Other Assets and Due from Correspondent Brokers Total 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 Liabilities held for sale Total 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 Stockholders' Equity, Including Portion Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest Total Liabilities and Equity Liabilities and Equity Discontinued Operations Disposal Groups, Including Discontinued Operations, Disclosure [Text Block] Schedule I - Statements of Operations [Abstract] Schedule I - Statements of Operations [Abstract] Schedule of Condensed Financial Information of Parent Company - Statement of Operations [Table] Schedule of Condensed Financial Information of Parent Company - Statement of Operations [Table] Schedule of Condensed Financial Information of Parent Company - Statement of Operations [Table] Equity in earnings (loss) of subsidiaries Gain (loss) on extinguishment of debt Gain (Loss) on Extinguishment of Debt Derivative [Table] Derivative [Line Items] Primary underlying risk: Primary underlying risk: [Abstract] Primary underlying risk: [Abstract] Gross margin on net sales Gross Profit Income (loss) from continuing operations Related Party Transactions [Abstract] Schedule of Related Party Transactions, by Related Party [Table] Schedule of Related Party Transactions, by Related Party [Table] 767 Leasing 767 Leasing [Member] 767 Leasing [Member] Investment Investment [Member] Investment Related Party Transaction [Axis] Related Party Transaction [Axis] Related Party Transaction [Domain] Related Party Transaction [Domain] Investment in funds Investment in funds [Member] Investment in funds [Member] Expense sharing arrangement Expense Sharing Agreement [Member] Expense Sharing Agreement [Member] Repair services revenue from related party 7600 Services, Miscellaneous Repair Services [Member] Purchases from related party Purchases from related party [Member] Purchases from related party Sales to related party Railcar component sales [Member] Railcar component sales [Member] Buying group operating expenses Operating Expense [Member] Related Party [Axis] Related Party [Axis] Related Party [Domain] Related Party [Domain] Consolidated VIE Consolidated VIE [Member] Consolidated VIE Hertz Equity Method Investee [Member] ACF ACF [Member] ACF [Member] Insight Portfolio Group LLC Insight Portfolio Group LLC [Member] Insight Portfolio Group LLC [Member] Related Party Transaction [Line Items] Related Party Transaction [Line Items] Amount of transaction with related party Related Party Transaction, Amounts of Transaction Variable Interest Entity, Nonconsolidated, assets at VIE Variable Interest Entity, Nonconsolidated, assets at VIE Variable Interest Entity, Nonconsolidated, assets at VIE Variable Interest Entity, Nonconsolidated, liabilities at VIE Variable Interest Entity, Nonconsolidated, liabilities at VIE Variable Interest Entity, Nonconsolidated, liabilities at VIE investment in nonconsolidated VIE investment in nonconsolidated VIE investment in nonconsolidated VIE investment in related parties investment in related parties investment in related parties 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 Percentage of equity ownership in subsidiary Schedule of Goodwill [Table] Schedule of Goodwill [Table] Goodwill [Line Items] Goodwill [Line Items] Gross carrying amount of goodwill Goodwill, Gross Goodwill arising from acquisitions Foreign exchange adjustments to goodwill Goodwill, Foreign Currency Translation Gain (Loss) Accumulated impairment of goodwill Goodwill, Impaired, Accumulated Impairment Loss Impairment of goodwill Net carrying value of goodwill Addition based on tax positions related to the current year Unrecognized Tax Benefits, Increase Resulting from Current Period Tax Positions Increase for tax positions of prior years Unrecognized Tax Benefits, Increase Resulting from Prior Period Tax Positions Decrease for tax positions of prior years Unrecognized Tax Benefits, Decrease Resulting from Prior Period Tax Positions Decrease for statute of limitation expiration Unrecognized Tax Benefits, Reduction Resulting from Lapse of Applicable Statute of Limitations Basis of Presentation and Summary of Significant Accounting Policies Organization, Consolidation and Presentation of Financial Statements Disclosure and Significant Accounting Policies [Text Block] (Gain) loss on extinguishment of debt Additional borrowing availability Additional borrowing availability Additional borrowing availability Starfire Holding Corporation Starfire Holding Corporation [Member] Starfire Holding Corporation [Member] Federal-Mogul Products, Inc. Federal-Mogul Products, Inc. [Member] Federal-Mogul Products, Inc. [Member] Environmental loss contingency accrual Accrual for Environmental Loss Contingencies Price of RINs Cost of RINs Expenses incurred to purchase additional rewnewable identification numbers Biofuel blending obligation Biofuel blending obligation Biofuel blending obligation Payment for litigation settlement agreement Loss Contingency, Damages Paid, Value Affiliate ownership in parent company general partner Affiliate ownership in parent company general partner Affiliate ownership in parent company general partner Funded status of related party pension plan Ownership percentage by principal owner Ownership Percentage by Principal Owner Ownership percentage by principal owner in related party Pension funding indemnity agreement with subsidiary 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 Inventory Disclosure [Text Block] Inventory Disclosure [Text Block] Income tax benefit (expense) at U.S. statutory rate Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation at Federal Statutory Income Tax Rate, Amount Valuation allowance Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation, Change in Deferred Tax Assets Valuation Allowance, Amount Non-controlling interest Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation, Noncontrolling Interest Income (Loss), Amount Goodwill impairment Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation, Nondeductible Expense, Impairment Losses, Amount Stock dispositions Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation, Disposition of Business, Amount Income not subject to taxation Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation, Tax Exempt Income, Amount Enactment of U.S. tax legislation, net of valuation allowance Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation, Change in Enacted Tax Rate, Amount Other Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation, Other Reconciling Items, Amount Schedule of changes in accumulated other comprehensive income [Table Text Block] Schedule of changes in accumulated other comprehensive income [Table Text Block] Schedule of changes in accumulated other comprehensive income [Table Text Block] Schedule of Cash Flow, Supplemental Disclosures Schedule of Cash Flow, Supplemental Disclosures [Table Text Block] Financial Instrument [Axis] Financial Instrument [Axis] Financial Instruments [Domain] Financial Instruments [Domain] Assets Assets, Fair Value Disclosure [Abstract] Investments Investments measured at fair value Investments measured at fair value Assets, Fair Value Disclosure Assets, Fair Value Disclosure Liabilities Liabilities [Abstract] Other liabilities Other Liabilities, Fair Value Disclosure Financial and Nonfinancial Liabilities, Fair Value Disclosure Financial and Nonfinancial Liabilities, Fair Value Disclosure Schedule of Other Derivatives Not Designated as Hedging Instruments, Statements of Financial Performance and Financial Position, Location Derivatives Not Designated as Hedging Instruments [Table Text Block] Schedule of Notional Amounts of Outstanding Derivative Positions Schedule of Notional Amounts of Outstanding Derivative Positions [Table Text Block] Segment Reporting, Policy [Policy Text Block] Segment Reporting, Policy [Policy Text Block] Schedule I - Balance Sheet [Abstract] Schedule I - Balance Sheet [Abstract] Schedule of Condensed Financial Information of Parent Company - Balance Sheet [Table] Schedule of Condensed Financial Information of Parent Company - Balance Sheet [Table] Schedule of Condensed Financial Information of Parent Company - Balance Sheet [Table] Restricted cash Other assets Other Assets Investments in subsidiaries, net Investments in and Advance to Affiliates, Subsidiaries, Associates, and Joint Ventures Commitments and contingencies (Note 3) Commitments and Contingencies Limited partners: Depositary units: 191,366,097 and 173,564,307 units issued and outstanding at December 31, 2018 and 2017, respectively Limited Partners' Capital Account General partner General Partners' Capital Account Component of Other Income (Loss), Net [Table] Component of Other Income (Loss), Ne [Table] Component of Other Income (Loss), Net [Table] Component of Other Income (Loss), Net [Axis] Component of Other Income (Loss), Net [Axis] Component of Other Income (Loss), net [Axis] Component of Other Income (Loss), Net, Name [Domain] Component of Other Income (Loss), Net Name [Domain] Component of Other Income (Loss), Net Name [Domain] Other derivative (loss) income Other derivative gain [Member] Other derivative gain [Member] Dividend expense Dividend expense [Member] Dividend expense 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] Foreign currency transaction (loss) income Foreign Currency Gain (Loss) [Member] Tax settlement gain Settlement loss with taxing authority [Member] Settlement loss with taxing authority [Member] Non-service pension and other post-retirement benefits expense Non service pension and other post-retirement benefits expense [Member] Non service pension and other post-retirement benefits expense 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] Financial Instruments Financial Instruments Disclosure [Text Block] Schedule of Variable Interest Entities [Table] Schedule of Variable Interest Entities [Table] Cash held at consolidated affiliated partnerships and restricted cash Cash held at consolidated affiliated partnerships and restricted cash [Member] Cash held at consolidated affiliated partnerships and restricted cash Investments Investments [Member] Due from brokers Due from broker [Member] Due from broker [Member] Property, plant and equipment Property, Plant and Equipment [Member] Inventories Inventories [Member] Intangible assets, net Intangible assets, net [Member] Intangible assets, net [Member] Accounts payable, accrued expenses and other liabilities Accounts payable, accrued expenses and other liabilities [Member] Accounts payable, accrued expenses and other liabilities [Member] Securities Sold, Not yet Purchased Securities Sold, Not yet Purchased [Member] Due to brokers Due to brokers [Member] Due to brokers [Member] Assets of VIE's Variable Interest Entity, Consolidated, Carrying Amount, Assets Liabilities of VIE's Variable Interest Entity, Consolidated, Carrying Amount, Liabilities Subsidiary ownership interest in variable interest entity Variable Interest Entity, Qualitative or Quantitative Information, Ownership Percentage 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] Other Unclassified Indefinite-lived Intangible Assets [Member] 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: Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Gross and Net [Abstract] Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Gross and Net [Abstract] Gross Carrying Amount Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Gross Accumulated Amortization Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Accumulated Amortization Net Carrying Value Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Net Indefinite-lived intangible assets Indefinite-lived Intangible Assets (Excluding Goodwill) Intangible assets, net Intangible Assets, Net (Excluding Goodwill) Fair Value Measurements Fair Value Disclosures [Text Block] 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 Inventories reserves Inventory Valuation Reserves Due from brokers Due from Correspondent Brokers Intangible assets, net Total Assets Accounts payable Accounts Payable Unrealized loss on derivative contracts Total liabilities Commitments and contingencies (Note 17) Equity: Stockholders' Equity, Including Portion Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest [Abstract] Equity attributable to Icahn Enterprises Total equity Total Liabilities and Equity Schedule of Quarterly Financial Information Quarterly Financial Information [Table Text Block] Statement of Partners' Capital [Abstract] Total Partners' Equity Parent [Member] Non-controlling Interests Noncontrolling Interest [Member] Increase (Decrease) in Partners' Capital [Roll Forward] Increase (Decrease) in Partners' Capital [Roll Forward] Equity Other comprehensive income Partnership distributions Partners' Capital Account, Distributions Partnership contributions Partners' Capital Account, Contributions Investment segment contributions Investment segment contributions Investment segment contributions Investment segment distributions Investment segment distributions Investment segment distributions Dividends and distributions to non-controlling interests in subsidiaries Noncontrolling Interest, Decrease from Distributions to Noncontrolling Interest Holders LP unit issuance Stock Issued During Period, Value, Acquisitions Changes in subsidiary equity and other Stockholders' Equity, Other Equity Investments and Related Matters Investments and Other Noncurrent Assets [Text Block] Related Party Transactions Related Party Transactions Disclosure [Text Block]