Condensed Financial Information of Parent Company Only 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] Members or Partners [Axis] Members or Partners [Axis] Members or Partners, including managing members or members or general partners or limited partners [Axis] Partner Name [Domain] Partner Name [Domain] Partner Name [Domain] Icahn Enterprises G.P. [Member] Icahn Enterprises G.P. [Member] Icahn Enterprises G.P. [Member] Debt Instrument [Axis] Debt Instrument [Axis] Debt Instrument, Name [Domain] Debt Instrument, Name [Domain] 5.875% senior unsecured notes due 2022 - Icahn Enterprises/Icahn Enterprises Holdings 2022 Notes [Member] 2022 Notes [Member] 3.50% senior unsecured notes due 2017 - Icahn Enterprises/Icahn Enterprises Holdings 2017 Notes [Member] 2017 Notes [Member] 6.00% senior unsecured notes due 2020 - Icahn Enterprises/Icahn Enterprises Holdings 2020 Notes [Member] 2020 Notes [Member] 4.875% senior unsecured notes due 2019 - Icahn Enterprises/Icahn Enterprises Holdings 2019 Notes [Member] 2019 Notes [Member] Mortgages payable [Member] Mortgages [Member] Long-term Debt, Type [Axis] Long-term Debt, Type [Axis] Long-term Debt, Type [Domain] Long-term Debt, Type [Domain] Senior unsecured notes [Member] Senior Debt Obligations [Member] Mortgages [Member] Scenario [Axis] Scenario [Axis] Scenario, Unspecified [Domain] Scenario, Unspecified [Domain] Parent Company [Member] Parent Company [Member] Legal Entity [Axis] Legal Entity [Axis] Entity [Domain] Entity [Domain] Icahn Enterprises Holdings [Member] Icahn Enterprises Holdings [Member] Icahn Enterprises Holdings [Member] Statement [Line Items] Statement [Line Items] 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 (LLC) or Limited Partnership (LP), Members or Limited Partners, Ownership Interest Debt Debt and Capital Lease Obligations Aggregate cash dividends paid to Parent by consolidated subsidiaries Cash Dividends Paid to Parent Company by Consolidated Subsidiaries Quarterly Financial Data (Unaudited) [Abstract] Quarterly Financial Data (Unaudited) [Abstract] Schedule of Quarterly Financial Information [Table Text Block] Schedule of Quarterly Financial Information [Table Text Block] Debt Disclosure [Abstract] Schedule of Long-term Debt Instruments [Table] Schedule of Long-term Debt Instruments [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] Loss on extinguishment of debt (Note 10) Loss on Debt Extinguishment [Member] Loss on Debt Extinguishment [Member] Date Range [Axis] Date Range [Axis] Date Range [Axis] Date Range [Domain] Date Range [Domain] Date Range [Domain] Segments [Axis] Segments [Axis] Segments [Domain] Segments [Domain] Automotive Segment [Member] Automotive Segment [Member] Automotive Segment [Member] Food Packaging Segment [Member] Food Packaging Segment [Member] Food Packaging Segment [Member] Letter of Credit [Member] Letter of Credit [Member] Term Loan [Member] Term Loan [Member] Term Loan [Member] 2010-2012 Notes [Member] 2010-2012 Notes [Member] 2010-2012 Notes [Member] Debt Instrument [Line Items] Debt Instrument [Line Items] Line of credit, refinancing indebtedness due, period Line of credit, refinancing indebtedness due, period Line of credit, refinancing indebtedness due, period Aggregate principal amount issued, long-term debt Debt Instrument, Face Amount Interest rate, long-term debt Debt Instrument, Interest Rate, Stated Percentage Loss on extinguishment of debt Gains (Losses) on Extinguishment of Debt Line of credit facility Line of Credit Facility, Maximum Borrowing Capacity Percentage spread on debt Debt Instrument, Basis Spread on Variable Rate Long-term Line of Credit Long-term Line of Credit Letters of Credit Outstanding, Amount Letters of Credit Outstanding, Amount Segment Reporting [Abstract] Schedule of Condensed Financial Statements [Table] Condensed Financial Statements [Table] Consolidation Items [Axis] Consolidation Items [Axis] Consolidation Items [Domain] Consolidation Items [Domain] Investment Segment [Member] Investment Segment [Member] Investment Segment [Member] Energy Segment [Member] Energy Segment [Member] Energy Segment [Member] Gaming Segment [Member] Gaming Segment [Member] Gaming Segment [Member] Mining Segment [Member] Mining Segment [Member] Mining Segment [Member] Railcar Segment [Member] Railcar Segment [Member] Railcar Segment [Member] Metals Segment [Member] Metals Segment [Member] Metals Segment [Member] Real Estate Segment [Member] Real Estate Segment [Member] Real Estate Segment [Member] Home Fashion Segment [Member] Home Fashion Segment [Member] Home Fashion Segment [Member] Holding Company [Member] Holding Company [Member] Holding Company [Member] Segment Reporting Information [Line Items] Segment Reporting Information [Line Items] Revenues: Revenues [Abstract] Net sales Sales Revenue, Goods, Net Other revenues from operations Other Revenue, Net Net (loss) gain 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 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 Total Expenses Total of all operating and non-operating costs and expenses. Income before income tax benefit (expense) Income (Loss) from Continuing Operations before Income Taxes, Extraordinary Items, Noncontrolling Interest Income tax (expense) benefit Income Tax Expense (Benefit) Net (loss) income Net Income (Loss), Including Portion Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest Less: net loss (income) attributable to non-controlling interests Income (Loss) Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest Net (loss) income attributable to Icahn Enterprises Net Income (Loss) 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 Amortization included in interest expense Amortization of Financing Costs and Discounts Net Income Per LP Unit [Abstract] Net Income Per LP Unit [Abstract] Net Income Per LP Unit Earnings Per Share [Text Block] Schedule of Segment Reporting Information, by Segment [Table] Schedule of Segment Reporting Information, by Segment [Table] Schedule of Condensed Income Statement by Segment Condensed Income Statement [Table Text Block] Schedule of Condensed Financial Statements by Segment Condensed Financial Statements [Table Text Block] Schedule of Revenue from External Customers and Long-Lived Assets, by Geographical Areas [Table Text Block] Schedule of Revenue from External Customers and Long-Lived Assets, by Geographical Areas [Table Text Block] Schedule of Segment Reporting Information, by Segment [Table Text Block] Schedule of Segment Reporting Information, by Segment [Table Text Block] Net Periodic Benefit Cost [Abstract] Net Periodic Benefit Cost [Abstract] Defined Benefit Plans and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans Disclosures [Table] Defined Benefit Plans and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans Disclosures [Table] Defined Benefit Plans and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans [Axis] Defined Benefit Plans and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans [Axis] Defined Benefit Plans and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans [Domain] Defined Benefit Plan and Other Postretirement Benefit Plan [Domain] Pension Benefits Pension Plan [Member] Other Post-Employment Benefits Other Postretirement Benefit Plan [Member] Net Periodic Benefit Cost [Line Items] Defined Benefit Plans and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans Table Text Block [Line Items] Service cost Defined Benefit Plan, Service Cost Interest cost Defined Benefit Plan, Interest Cost Expected return on plan assets Defined Benefit Plan, Expected Return on Plan Assets Amortization of actuarial losses Defined Benefit Plan, Amortization of Gains (Losses) Amortization of prior service credit Defined Benefit Plan, Amortization of Prior Service Cost (Credit) Settlement (gain) loss Defined Benefit Plan, Recognized Net Gain (Loss) Due to Settlements Curtailment gain Defined Benefit Plan, Recognized Net Gain (Loss) Due to Curtailments Net periodic benefit cost Defined Benefit Plan, Net Periodic Benefit Cost Investment Segment [Abstract] Investment Segment [Abstract] Operating Units [Table] OPerating Units [Table] OPerating Units [Table] Investment Funds [Member] Investment Funds [Member] The Onshore Fund (Icahn Partners LP) and the Offshore Master Funds are collectively referred to as the “Investment Funds". The “Offshore Master Funds” consist of (i) Icahn Partners Master Fund LP, or Master Fund I, (ii) Icahn Partners Master Fund II LP, or Master Fund II and (iii) Icahn Partners Master Fund III LP, or Master Fund III. Fair value of our intrest in Funds of subsidiary Subsidiary of Limited Liability Company or Limited Partnership, Ownership Interest, Fair Value The fair value of investment held in the subsidiary investment funds by the limited liability company or limited partnership. Compensation and Retirement Disclosure [Abstract] Schedule of Defined Benefit Plans Disclosures [Table] Schedule of Defined Benefit Plans Disclosures [Table] Income Statement Location [Axis] Income Statement Location [Axis] Income Statement Location [Domain] Income Statement Location [Domain] Selling, general and administrative Selling, General and Administrative Expenses [Member] Other income, net Other Income [Member] United States Plans United States Pension Plan of US Entity [Member] Non-U.S. Plans Foreign Pension Plan [Member] Defined Benefit Plan, Asset Categories [Axis] Defined Benefit Plan, Asset Categories [Axis] Plan Asset Categories [Domain] Plan Asset Categories [Domain] Equity securities Equity Securities [Member] Fixed Income Investments [Member] Fixed Income Investments [Member] Other Investments [Member] Other Investments [Member] Insurance contracts Insurance contracts [Member] Insurance contracts Debt Securities [Member] Debt Securities [Member] Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items] Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items] Defined Benefit Plan, Amount to be Amortized from Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) Next Fiscal Year Defined Benefit Plan, Amount to be Amortized from Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) Next Fiscal Year Defined Benefit Plans, Estimated Future Employer Contributions in Next Fiscal Year Defined Benefit Plans, Estimated Future Employer Contributions in Next Fiscal Year Defined Benefit Plan, Accumulated Benefit Obligation Defined Benefit Plan, Accumulated Benefit Obligation Defined Benefit Plan, Actual Plan Asset Allocations Defined Benefit Plan, Actual Plan Asset Allocations Percent of plan assets invested in actively managed investment funds Percent of plan assets invested in actively managed investment funds Percent of plan assets invested in actively managed investment funds Curtailment gain Defined Contribution Plan, Cost Recognized Defined Contribution Plan, Cost Recognized Supplemental Unemployment Benefits, Other Postemployment Supplemental Unemployment Benefits, Other Postemployment Income Statement [Abstract] Statement [Table] Statement [Table] Other income, net Total Revenues Total Expenses (Loss) income before income tax (expense) benefit Net (loss) income Less: net loss (income) attributable to non-controlling interests Net Income (Loss) Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest Net (loss) income attributable to Icahn Enterprises Net (loss) income attributable to Icahn Enterprises allocable to: Net Income Attributable To Ichan Enterprises Allocable To Partners [Abstract] Net Income Attributable To Ichan Enterprises Allocable To Partners [Abstract] Limited partners Net Income (Loss) Allocated to Limited Partners General partner Net Income (Loss) Allocated to General Partners Basic (loss) income per LP unit Net Income (Loss), Per Outstanding Limited Partnership Unit, Basic, Net of Tax Basic weighted average LP units outstanding Weighted Average Number of Shares Outstanding, Basic Diluted (loss) income per LP unit Net Income (Loss), Net of Tax, Per Outstanding Limited Partnership Unit, Diluted Diluted weighted average LP units outstanding Weighted Average Number of Shares Outstanding, Diluted Cash distributions declared per LP unit Distributions Per Limited Partnership Unit Outstanding, Basic Fair Value Disclosures [Abstract] Fair Value Measurements, Recurring and Nonrecurring [Table] Fair Value Measurements, Recurring and Nonrecurring [Table] Major Types of Debt and Equity Securities [Axis] Major Types of Debt and Equity Securities [Axis] Major Types of Debt and Equity Securities [Domain] Major Types of Debt and Equity Securities [Domain] Other Security Investments [Member] Other Security Investments [Member] Cash and Cash Equivalents [Member] Cash and Cash Equivalents [Member] Equity Funds [Member] Equity Funds [Member] Fixed Income Securities [Member] Fixed Income Securities [Member] Real estate and other [Member] Real estate and other [Member] Real estate and other [Member] Corporate and Other [Member] Corporate and Other [Member] Government [Member] Government [Member] Hedge Funds [Member] Hedge Funds [Member] Corporate Bond Securities [Member] Corporate Bond Securities [Member] Railcar and Food Packaging [Member] Railcar and Food Packaging [Member] Railcar and Food Packaging [Member] Other Segments and Holding Company [Member] Other Segments and Holding Company [Member] Other Segments and Holding Company [Member] Measurement Frequency [Axis] Measurement Frequency [Axis] Fair Value, Measurement Frequency [Domain] Fair Value, Measurement Frequency [Domain] Recurring measurement [Member] Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member] Fair Value, Hierarchy [Axis] Fair Value, Hierarchy [Axis] Fair Value Hierarchy [Domain] Fair Value Hierarchy [Domain] Level 1 [Member] Fair Value, Inputs, Level 1 [Member] Fair Value, Inputs, Level 2 [Member] Fair Value, Inputs, Level 2 [Member] Fair Value, Inputs, Level 3 [Member] Fair Value, Inputs, Level 3 [Member] Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items] Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items] Assets Assets, Fair Value Disclosure [Abstract] Defined Benefit Plan, Fair Value of Plan Assets Defined Benefit Plan, Fair Value of Plan Assets Investments Investments, Fair Value Disclosure Derivative contracts, at fair value(1) Derivative Asset Assets, Fair Value Disclosure Assets, Fair Value Disclosure Liabilities Liabilities [Abstract] Other liabilities Other Liabilities Derivative contracts, at fair value(2) Derivative Liability Financial and Nonfinancial Liabilities, Fair Value Disclosure Financial and Nonfinancial Liabilities, Fair Value Disclosure Investments and Related Matters [Abstract] Investments and Related Matters [Abstract] Investment and Related Matter [Table] Investment and Related Matter [Table] Investment and Related Matter [Table] Other Segments [Member] Other Segments [Member] Investment and Related Matters [Line Items] Investment and Related Matters [Line Items] Investment and Related Matters [Line Items] Investment Investment [Table Text Block] Benefit Obligations and Plan Assets [Abstract] Benefit Obligations and Plan Assets [Abstract] Defined benefit plan, sensitivity of assumptions used to determine PBO [Axis] [Axis] Defined benefit plan, sensitivity of assumptions used to determine PBO [Axis] [Axis] Defined benefit plan, sensitivity of assumptions used to determine PBO [Axis] Defined benefit plan, sensitivity of assumptions used to determine PBO [Axis] [Domain] Defined benefit plan, sensitivity of assumptions used to determine PBO [Axis] [Domain] [Domain] for Defined benefit plan, sensitivity of assumptions used to determine PBO [Axis] Defined Benefit Plans and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans Table Text Block [Line Items] Defined Benefit Plan, Expected Future Benefit Payments, Next Twelve Months Defined Benefit Plan, Expected Future Benefit Payments, Next Twelve Months Defined Benefit Plan, Effect of One Percentage Point Increase on Service and Interest Cost Components Defined Benefit Plan, Effect of One Percentage Point Increase on Service and Interest Cost Components Defined Benefit Plan, Health Care Cost Trend Rate Assumed for Next Fiscal Year Defined Benefit Plan, Health Care Cost Trend Rate Assumed for Next Fiscal Year Defined Benefit Plan, Pension Plans with Accumulated Benefit Obligations in Excess of Plan Assets, Aggregate Projected Benefit Obligation Defined Benefit Plan, Pension Plans with Accumulated Benefit Obligations in Excess of Plan Assets, Aggregate Projected Benefit Obligation Defined benefit plan, plans with projected benefit obligations in excess of plan assets, aggregate projected benefit obligation Defined benefit plan, plans with projected benefit obligations in excess of plan assets, aggregate projected benefit obligation Defined benefit plan, plans with projected benefit obligations in excess of plan assets, aggregate projected benefit obligation Defined Benefit Plan, Assumptions Used Calculating Net Periodic Benefit Cost, Discount Rate Defined Benefit Plan, Assumptions Used Calculating Net Periodic Benefit Cost, Discount Rate Defined benefit plan, assumption used calculated projected benefit obligation, discount rate Defined benefit plan, assumption used calculated projected benefit obligation, discount rate Defined benefit plan, assumption used calculated projected benefit obligation, discount rate Defined Benefit Plan, Benefit Obligation Defined Benefit Plan, Benefit Obligation Employee contributions Defined Benefit Plan, Contributions by Plan Participants Benefits paid Defined Benefit Plan, Benefits Paid Medicare subsidies received Defined Benefit Plan, Gross Prescription Drug Subsidy Receipts Received Plan amendments Defined benefit plan, effect of plan amendments on change in benefit obligation Defined benefit plan, effect of plan amendments on change in benefit obligation Curtailments Defined Benefit Plan, Curtailments Settlements Defined Benefit Plan, Settlements, Benefit Obligation Actuarial losses (gains) and changes in actuarial assumptions Defined Benefit Plan, Actuarial Gain (Loss) Net transfers in (out) Defined Benefit Plan, Assets Transferred to (from) Plan Currency translation Defined Benefit Plan, Foreign Currency Exchange Rate Gain (Loss) Actual return on plan assets Defined Benefit Plan, Actual Return on Plan Assets Company contributions Defined Benefit Plan, Contributions by Employer Expenses Defined Benefit Plan, Administration Expenses Currency translation Defined Benefit Plan, Foreign Currency Exchange Rate Changes, Plan Assets Funded status of the plan Defined Benefit Plan, Funded Status of Plan Net liability recognized Defined Benefit Plan, Amounts Recognized in Balance Sheet Actuarial losses included in Accumulated other comprehensive income Actuarial losses included in Accumulated other comprehensive income Actuarial losses included in AOCI, before tax Prior service cost (credit) Pension and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans, Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net Prior Service Cost (Credit), before Tax Pension and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans, Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net Gains (Losses), before Tax Pension and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans, Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net Gains (Losses), before Tax Defined benefit plan, assumption used calculated projected benefit obligation, rate of compensation increase Defined benefit plan, assumption used calculated projected benefit obligation, rate of compensation increase Defined benefit plan, assumption used calculated projected benefit obligation, rate of compensation increase Defined Benefit Plan, Assumptions Used Calculating Net Periodic Benefit Cost, Expected Long-term Return on Assets Defined Benefit Plan, Assumptions Used Calculating Net Periodic Benefit Cost, Expected Long-term Return on Assets Defined Benefit Plan, Assumptions Used Calculating Net Periodic Benefit Cost, Rate of Compensation Increase Defined Benefit Plan, Assumptions Used Calculating Net Periodic Benefit Cost, Rate of Compensation Increase Defined benefit plan, plans with projected benefit obligations in excess of plan assets, fair value of plan assets Defined benefit plan, plans with projected benefit obligations in excess of plan assets, fair value of plan assets Defined benefit plan, plans with projected benefit obligations in excess of plan assets, fair value of plan assets Defined Benefit Plan, Pension Plans with Accumulated Benefit Obligations in Excess of Plan Assets, Aggregate Accumulated Benefit Obligation Defined Benefit Plan, Pension Plans with Accumulated Benefit Obligations in Excess of Plan Assets, Aggregate Accumulated Benefit Obligation Defined Benefit Plan, Pension Plans with Accumulated Benefit Obligations in Excess of Plan Assets, Aggregate Fair Value of Plan Assets Defined Benefit Plan, Pension Plans with Accumulated Benefit Obligations in Excess of Plan Assets, Aggregate Fair Value of Plan Assets Defined Benefit Plan, Ultimate Health Care Cost Trend Rate Defined Benefit Plan, Ultimate Health Care Cost Trend Rate Defined Benefit Plan, Year that Rate Reaches Ultimate Trend Rate Defined Benefit Plan, Year that Rate Reaches Ultimate Trend Rate Defined Benefit Plan, Effect of One Percentage Point Increase on Accumulated Postretirement Benefit Obligation Defined Benefit Plan, Effect of One Percentage Point Increase on Accumulated Postretirement Benefit Obligation Defined Benefit Plan, Effect of One Percentage Point Decrease on Service and Interest Cost Components Defined Benefit Plan, Effect of One Percentage Point Decrease on Service and Interest Cost Components Defined Benefit Plan, Effect of One Percentage Point Decrease on Accumulated Postretirement Benefit Obligation Defined Benefit Plan, Effect of One Percentage Point Decrease on Accumulated Postretirement Benefit Obligation Defined Benefit Plan, Expected Future Benefit Payments, Year Two Defined Benefit Plan, Expected Future Benefit Payments, Year Two Defined Benefit Plan, Expected Future Benefit Payments, Year Three Defined Benefit Plan, Expected Future Benefit Payments, Year Three Defined Benefit Plan, Expected Future Benefit Payments, Year Four Defined Benefit Plan, Expected Future Benefit Payments, Year Four Defined Benefit Plan, Expected Future Benefit Payments, Year Five Defined Benefit Plan, Expected Future Benefit Payments, Year Five Defined Benefit Plan, Expected Future Benefit Payments, Five Fiscal Years Thereafter Defined Benefit Plan, Expected Future Benefit Payments, Five Fiscal Years Thereafter 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] Net Gain from Investment Activities [Member] Net Gain from Investment Activities [Member] Net Gain from Investment Activities [Member] Hedging Designation [Axis] Hedging Designation [Axis] Hedging Designation [Domain] Hedging Designation [Domain] Not Designated as Hedging Instrument [Member] Not Designated as Hedging Instrument [Member] Derivative Instrument Risk [Axis] Derivative Instrument [Axis] Derivative Contract Type [Domain] Derivative Contract [Domain] Equity contracts Equity Contract [Member] Foreign exchange contracts Foreign Exchange Contract [Member] Credit contracts Credit Risk Contract [Member] Interest rate contracts Interest Rate 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 [Member] Other Assets [Member] Accrued Expenses and Other Liabilities [Member] 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] Asset Derivatives, Gross Derivative Asset, Fair Value, Gross Asset Liability Derivatives, Gross Derivative Liability, Fair Value, Gross Liability Derivative Asset, Fair Value, Net Derivative Asset, Fair Value, Amount Not Offset Against Collateral Derivative Liability, Fair Value, Net Derivative Liability, Fair Value, Amount Not Offset Against Collateral Netting across contract types Derivative Asset, Fair Value, Amount Offset Against Collateral Liability Derivatives, Netting across contract types Derivative Liability, Fair Value, Amount Offset Against Collateral Derivative contracts, at fair value(1) Liability Derivatives, Total Cash collateral posted for derivative positions Collateral Already Posted, Aggregate Fair Value Income Tax Disclosure [Abstract] Income Taxes Income Tax Disclosure [Text Block] Income Tax Contingency [Table] Income Tax Contingency [Table] Income Tax Contingency [Line Items] Income Tax Contingency [Line Items] 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 Components of Income Tax Expense (Benefit) [Table Text Block] Schedule of Components of Income Tax Expense (Benefit) [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 Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation [Table Text Block] Schedule of Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation [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] Uncertainty in Income Taxes [Abstract] Uncertainty in Income Taxes [Abstract] Federal-Mogul [Member] Federal-Mogul [Member] Federal-Mogul [Member] Unrecognized tax benefits balance Unrecognized Tax Benefits 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 Settlements Unrecognized Tax Benefits, Decrease Resulting from Settlements with Taxing Authorities Impact of currency translation and other Unrecognized Tax Benefits, Decrease Resulting from Foreign Currency Translation Unrecognized tax benefits that if recognized, would affect the effective tax rate Unrecognized Tax Benefits that Would Impact Effective Tax Rate Possibility that unrecognized tax benefits may drecrease in the next year Significant Change in Unrecognized Tax Benefits is Reasonably Possible, Amount of Unrecorded Benefit Liabilities recognized for tax related net interest and penalties 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 Operating Units [Abstract] Operating Units. [Abstract] Operating Units Operating Units [Text Block] Supplemental information regarding the entity's reportable segments, as a single block text, including narrative business descriptions of reportable segments and relevent financial disclosures specific to reprortable segments no disclosed elsewhere. Schedule of Other Derivatives Not Designated as Hedging Instruments, Statements of Financial Performance and Financial Position, Location Schedule of Other Derivatives Not Designated as Hedging Instruments, Statements of Financial Performance and Financial Position, Location [Table Text Block] Schedule of Notional Amounts of Outstanding Derivative Positions Schedule of Notional Amounts of Outstanding Derivative Positions [Table Text Block] Statement of Partners' Capital [Abstract] Equity Components [Axis] Equity Components [Axis] Equity Component [Domain] Equity Component [Domain] General partner General Partner [Member] Limited partners Limited Partner [Member] 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 Stockholders' Equity, Including Portion Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest Net (loss) income Other comprehensive loss Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax Partnership contributions Partners' Capital Account, Contributions Partnership distributions Partners' Capital Account, Distributions Investment segment contributions Investment Management Contributions Contributions from non-controlling investors in the Private Funds. Investment segment distributions Investment Management Distributions Distribution to non-controlling investors in the Private Funds. Acquisitions Partners' Capital Account, Acquisitions Distributions paid to non-controlling interests in subsidiary Noncontrolling Interest, Decrease from Distributions to Noncontrolling Interest Holders Proceeds from subsidiary equity offerings Proceeds from Noncontrolling Interests Acquisition of ARL Change in equity due to combination of entity under common control Change in equity due to combination of entity under common control Changes in subsidiary equity and other Change in Subsidiary Equity and Other Change in subsidiary equity and other Equity 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] Subsequent Events [Abstract] Subsequent Event [Table] Subsequent Event [Table] Subsequent Event Type [Axis] Subsequent Event Type [Axis] Subsequent Event Type [Domain] Subsequent Event Type [Domain] Dividend Declared [Member] Dividend Declared [Member] Subsequent Event [Line Items] Subsequent Event [Line Items] Unit distribution declared per share Common Stock, Dividends, Per Share, Declared Commitments and Contingencies Disclosure [Abstract] Schedule of Significant Accounting Policies [Table] Schedule of Significant Accounting Policies [Table] Schedule of Significant Accounting Policies [Table] Schedule of Significant Accounting Policies [Line Items] Schedule of Significant Accounting Policies [Line Items] Schedule of Significant Accounting Policies [Line Items] Environmental Costs, Policy [Policy Text Block] Environmental Costs, Policy [Policy Text Block] Pensions,Other Post-employment Benefits and Employee Benefit Plans Pension and Other Postretirement Benefits Disclosure [Text Block] Debt Debt Disclosure [Text Block] Derivative [Table] Derivative [Table] Credit swaps(1) Credit Default Swap [Member] Equity swaps Equity Swap [Member] Foreign currency forwards Foreign Exchange Forward [Member] Interest rate contracts(2) Interest Rate Swap [Member] Derivative [Line Items] Derivative [Line Items] Derivative, Notional Amount Derivative, Notional Amount Notional Exposure of Derivatives, Short Position, less than three months Notional Exposure of Derivatives, Short Position, less than three months Notional Exposure of Derivatives, Short Position, less than three months Primary underlying risk: Primary underlying risk: [Abstract] Primary underlying risk: [Abstract] Long Notional Exposure Notional Exposure of Derivatives, Long Position Notional Exposure of Derivatives, Long Position Short Notional Exposure Notional Exposure of Derivatives, Short Position Notional Exposure of Derivatives, Short Position Schedule of Long-term Debt Instruments Schedule of Long-term Debt Instruments [Table Text Block] Schedule of Maturities of Long-term Debt [Table Text Block] Schedule of Maturities of Long-term Debt [Table Text Block] 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 Related Party Transactions [Abstract] Schedule of Related Party Transactions, by Related Party [Table] Schedule of Related Party Transactions, by Related Party [Table] Investment in funds [Member] Investment in funds [Member] Investment in funds [Member] Related party agreement [Axis] Related party agreement [Axis] Related party agreement [Axis] Related party agreement [Domain] Related party agreement [Domain] [Domain] for Related party agreement [Axis] Agreements with ACF [Member] Agreements with ACF [Member] Agreements with ACF [Member] Related Party Transaction [Axis] Related Party Transaction [Axis] Related Party Transaction [Domain] Related Party Transaction [Domain] Railcar component sales [Member] Railcar component sales [Member] Railcar component sales [Member] Railcar Sales [Member] Railcar Sales [Member] Railcar Sales [Member] Railcar services and support [Member] Railcar services and support [Member] Railcar services and support [Member] Purchase of railcars [Member] Purchase of railcars [Member] Purchase of railcars [Member] Principal Owners and Affiliates [Member] Principal Owners and Affiliates [Member] Mr. Icahn and certain other entities beneficially owned by Mr. Icahn Icahn Capital [Member] Icahn Capital [Member] Icahn Capital [Member] American Entertainment Properties Corp. [Member] American Entertainment Properties Corp. [Member] American Entertainment Properties Corp. [Member] ARL [Member] ARL [Member] ARL [Member] ARI [Member] ARI [Member] ARI [Member] AEP Leasing [Member] AEP Leasing [Member] AEP Leasing [Member] New ARL [Member] [Member] New ARL [Member] [Member] New ARL [Member] [Member] Related Party [Axis] Related Party [Axis] Related Party [Domain] Related Party [Domain] Koala [Member] Koala [Member] Koala [Member] ACF [Member] ACF [Member] ACF [Member] Insight Portfolio Group LLC [Member] Insight Portfolio Group LLC [Member] Insight Portfolio Group LLC [Member] Related Party Transactions, by Transaction Type [Axis] Related Party Transactions, by Transaction Type [Axis] Related Party Transactions, by Transaction Type [Axis] Related Party Transactions, by Type [Domain] Related Party Transactions, by Type [Domain] Related Party Transactions, by Type [Domain] Expense Sharing Agreement [Member] Expense Sharing Agreement [Member] Expense Sharing Agreement [Member] Related Party Transaction [Line Items] Related Party Transaction [Line Items] Investment in funds Investment in funds Investment in funds Investment Management Distributions Non-cash Investment segment contribution (derivative liability shares transferred) Non-cash Investment segment contribution (derivative liability shares transferred) Non-cash Investment segment contribution (derivative liability shares transferred) Non-cash investment segment contribution Non-cash investment segment contribution Non-cash investment segment contribution Percentage fair value of investments in Funds that is attributable to Mr. Icahn Percentage fair value of investments in Funds that is attributable to Mr. Icahn Percentage fair value of investments in Funds that is attributable to Mr. Icahn Expenses charged by related party Related Party Transaction, Amounts of Transaction Amount paid for management contract between related parties Amount paid for management contract between related parties Amount paid for management contract between related parties Cash contribution to newly capitalized entity Cash contribution to newly capitalized entity Cash contribution to newly capitalized entity Note receivable contribution to newly capitalized entity Note receivable contribution to newly capitalized entity Note receivable contribution to newly capitalized entity Payments to Acquire Interest in Joint Venture Payments to Acquire Interest in Joint Venture Additional debt incurred by newly capitalized entity Additional debt incurred by newly capitalized entity Additional debt incurred by newly capitalized entity Cash distributed by newly capitalized entity Cash distributed by newly capitalized entity Cash distributed by newly capitalized entity Loans and Leases Receivable, Related Parties Loans and Leases Receivable, Related Parties Interest Income, Related Party Interest Income, Related Party Related Party Transaction, Rate Related Party Transaction, Rate Related Party Transaction, Other Revenues from Transactions with Related Party Related Party Transaction, Other Revenues from Transactions with Related Party Unrecorded Unconditional Purchase Obligation, Minimum Quantity Required Unrecorded Unconditional Purchase Obligation, Minimum Quantity Required Unrecorded Unconditional Purchase Obligation Unrecorded Unconditional Purchase Obligation Option to purchase additinal railcars, number of cars Option to purchase additinal railcars, number of cars Option to purchase additinal railcars, number of cars Option to purchase additional railcars Option to purchase additional railcars Option to purchase additional railcars Related Party Transaction, Expenses from Transactions with Related Party Related Party Transaction, Expenses from Transactions with Related Party Railcars purchased Railcars purchased Railcars purchased Purchase price of railcars Purchase price of railcars Purchase price of railcars Percentage of equity ownership in subsidiary Subsidiary of Limited Liability Company or Limited Partnership, Ownership Interest Effective Income Tax Rate Reconcilation [Abstract] Effective Income Tax Rate Reconcilation [Abstract] Land lease [Member] Land lease [Member] Land lease [Member] Increase (Decrease) in Prepaid Rent Increase (Decrease) in Prepaid Rent Federal statutory rate Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation, at Federal Statutory Income Tax Rate, Percent Foreign operations Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation, Foreign Income Tax Rate Differential, Percent Valuation allowance Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation, Change in Deferred Tax Assets Valuation Allowance, Percent Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation, Noncontrolling Interest Income (Loss), Percent Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation, Noncontrolling Interest Income (Loss), Percent Effective in tax rate reconciliation, change in goodwill, percent Effective in tax rate reconciliation, change in goodwill, percent Effective in tax rate reconciliation, change in goodwill, percent Gain on settlement of liabilities subject to compromise Effective income tax rate reconciliation, gain on liabilities subject to compromise The portion of the difference between the effective income tax rate and domestic federal statutory income tax rate attributable to liabilities subject to compromise. Income not subject to taxation Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation, Tax Exempt Income, Percent Other Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation, Other Adjustments, Percent Effective Income Tax Rate, Continuing Operations Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation, Percent Condensed Financial Statements, Captions [Line Items] Condensed Financial Statements, Captions [Line Items] Condensed Financial Information of Parent Company Only Disclosure [Text Block] Condensed Financial Information of Parent Company Only Disclosure [Text Block] Investments and Related Matters Investments and Other Noncurrent Assets [Text Block] Derivative, by Nature [Axis] Derivative, by Nature [Axis] Derivative, Name [Domain] Derivative, Name [Domain] Cash Flow Hedging [Member] Cash Flow Hedging [Member] Designated as Hedging Instrument [Member] Designated as Hedging Instrument [Member] Reporting unit [Axis] Reporting unit [Axis] Reporting unit [Axis] Production Type [Domain] Production Type [Domain] VCS [Member] VCS [Member] VCS [Member] Concentration Risk Benchmark [Axis] Concentration Risk Benchmark [Axis] Concentration Risk Benchmark [Domain] Concentration Risk Benchmark [Domain] Accounts Receivable [Member] Accounts Receivable [Member] Concentration Risk Type [Axis] Concentration Risk Type [Axis] Concentration Risk Type [Domain] Concentration Risk Type [Domain] Customer Concentration Risk [Member] Customer Concentration Risk [Member] Hedging Relationship [Axis] Hedging Relationship [Axis] Hedging Relationship [Domain] Hedging Relationship [Domain] Open Option Contracts Written, Covered Put Options on Existing Short Positions Open Option Contracts Written, Covered Put Options on Existing Short Positions Open Option Contracts Written, Covered Put Options on Existing Short Positions Price Risk Cash Flow Hedge Derivatives, Contractual Term Maximum Length of Time Hedged in Price Risk Cash Flow Hedge Unrealized net gains (losses) on price hedge contracts Unrealized Loss on Price Risk Cash Flow Derivatives, before Tax Number of customers accounting for more than []% of receivables Concentration Risk, Number of Customers Concentration Risk, Number of Customers Concentration threshhold, balance sheet Concentration threshhold, balance sheet Concentration threshhold, balance sheet Schedule of Investments [Table] Schedule of Investments [Table] Investment Type [Axis] Investment Type [Axis] Investments [Domain] Investments [Domain] Equity Method Investments [Member] Equity Method Investments [Member] Schedule of Investments [Line Items] Schedule of Investments [Line Items] Portion of trading (losses) gains that relates to trading securities still held at balance sheet date Trading Securities, Change in Unrealized Holding Gain (Loss) Fair value option, recorded gains (losses) Fair Value, Option, Changes in Fair Value, Gain (Loss) 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 Summary of Significant Accounting Policies [Abstract] Summary of Significant Accounting Policies [Abstract] Accounting Policies [Table] Accounting Policies [Table] Accounting Policies Refineries [Member] 324110 Petroleum Refineries [Member] Nitrogen Fertilizer [Member] 325311 Nitrogenous Fertilizer Manufacturing [Member] Property location [Axis] Property location [Axis] Property location [Axis] Location [Domain] Location [Domain] Coffeyville refinery [Member] Coffeyville refinery [Member] Coffeyville refinery CVR Partners Fertilizer plant [Member] CVR Partners Fertilizer plant [Member] CVR Partners Fertilizer plant [Member] Wynnewood refinery [Member] Wynnewood refinery [Member] Wynnewood refinery Property, Plant and Equipment, Type [Axis] Property, Plant and Equipment, Type [Axis] Property, Plant and Equipment, Type [Domain] Property, Plant and Equipment, Type [Domain] Machinery, Equipment, and Furniture [Member] Machinery, Equipment, and Furniture [Member] Machinery, Equipment, and Furniture [Member] Assets Leased to Others [Member] Railcars [Member] Railcars [Member] Building and Improvements [Member] Building and Building Improvements [Member] Range [Axis] Range [Axis] Range [Domain] Range [Domain] Maximum [Member] Maximum [Member] Minimum [Member] Minimum [Member] Oil and Gas Production Type [Axis] Oil and Gas Production Type [Axis] Restricted Cash and Cash Equivalents [Axis] Restricted Cash and Cash Equivalents [Axis] Cash and Cash Equivalents [Domain] Cash and Cash Equivalents [Domain] Restricted cash [Member] Restricted cash [Member] Restricted cash Planned major maintenance Planned major maintenance Planned major maintenance Inventory Adjustments Inventory Adjustments Cash held at consolidated affiliated partnerships and restricted cash Restricted Cash and Cash Equivalents Fair value of long-term debt Long-term Debt, Fair Value Property, plant and equipment, useful life (in years) Property, Plant and Equipment, Useful Life Planned major maintenance, frequency (in years) Operating Expense, Plant Maintenance, Frequency, Years Operating Expense, Plant Maintenance, Frequency, Years Research and development expense Research and Development Expense Related Party Transactions Related Party Transactions Disclosure [Text Block] Quarterly Financial Information [Text Block] Quarterly Financial Information [Text Block] ASSETS Assets [Abstract] Cash and cash equivalents Cash and Cash Equivalents, at Carrying Value Investments Investments Accounts receivable, net Accounts Receivable, Net Inventories, net Inventory, Net Property, plant and equipment, net Property, Plant and Equipment, Net Goodwill Goodwill Intangible assets, net Intangible Assets, Net (Excluding Goodwill) Other assets Other Assets Total Assets Assets LIABILITIES AND EQUITY Liabilities and Equity [Abstract] Accounts payable Accounts Payable Accrued expenses and other liabilities Accrued Liabilities Deferred tax liability Deferred Tax Liabilities, Net Securities sold, not yet purchased, at fair value Financial Instruments Sold, Not yet Purchased, at Fair Value Due to brokers Due to Correspondent Brokers Post-employment benefit liability Postemployment Benefits Liability Total liabilities Liabilities Commitments and contingencies (Note 17) Commitments and Contingencies Equity: Stockholders' Equity, Including Portion Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest [Abstract] Limited partners: Depositary units: 131,481,059 and 123,103,414 units issued and outstanding at December 31, 2015 and 2014, respectively Limited Partners' Capital Account General partner General Partners' Capital Account Equity attributable to Icahn Enterprises Stockholders' Equity Attributable to Parent Equity attributable to non-controlling interests Stockholders' Equity Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest Total equity Total Liabilities and Equity Liabilities and Equity Goodwill and Intangible Assets Disclosure [Abstract] 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 Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Future Amortization Expense [Table Text Block] Schedule of Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Future Amortization Expense [Table Text Block] Counterparty Name [Axis] Counterparty Name [Axis] Counterparty Name [Domain] Counterparty Name [Domain] Put Option [Member] Put Option [Member] Fair value of derivative instruments with credit-risk related contingent features in a liability position Credit Risk Derivative Liabilities, at Fair Value Unrealized Gain (Loss) on Derivatives Unrealized Gain (Loss) on Derivatives Open Option Contract Written, Potential Payment Amount Open Option Contract Written, Potential Payment Amount The maximum payout of the open option contracts written for the investment. Business Acquisition [Axis] Business Acquisition [Axis] Business Acquisition, Acquiree [Domain] Business Acquisition, Acquiree [Domain] Ferrous Resources [Member] Ferrous Resources [Member] Ferrous Resources [Member] Trading Securities [Member] Trading Securities [Member] Managed investment funds [Member] Managed investment funds [Member] Managed investment funds [Member] Equity investment [Member] Equity investment [Member] Equity investment [Member] Available-for-sale Securities [Member] Available-for-sale Securities [Member] Realized and unrealized losses Fair Value, Measurement with Unobservable Inputs Reconciliation, Recurring Basis, Asset, Gain (Loss) Included in Earnings Distribution-in-kind Fair Value, Measurement with Unobservable Inputs Reconciliation, Recurring Basis, Asset, distribution in kind Fair Value, Measurement with Unobservable Inputs Reconciliation, Recurring Basis, Asset, distribution in kind Purchases Fair Value, Measurement with Unobservable Inputs Reconciliation, Recurring Basis, Asset, Purchases Fair Value, Measurement with Unobservable Inputs Reconciliation, Recurring Basis, Asset Value Fair Value, Measurement with Unobservable Inputs Reconciliation, Recurring Basis, Asset Value Fair value of investment in Ferrous Resources prior to acquisition of a controlling interest Fair value of equity investment in Ferrous Resources prior to acquisition of controlling interest Fair value of equity investment in entity prior to acquisition of controlling interest Defined Benefit Plan, Target Plan Asset Allocations Defined Benefit Plan, Target Plan Asset Allocations Commitments and Contingencies Commitments and Contingencies Disclosure [Text Block] 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] Indefinite-lived Intangible Assets [Axis] Indefinite-lived Intangible Assets [Axis] Indefinite-lived intangible assets: Indefinite-lived Intangible Assets, Major Class Name [Domain] Trademarks and brand names Trademarks [Member] Gaming licenses Gaming license [Member] Gaming license Finite-Lived Intangible Assets by Major Class [Axis] Finite-Lived Intangible Assets by Major Class [Axis] Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Major Class Name [Domain] Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Major Class Name [Domain] Customer relationships Customer Relationships [Member] Developed technology Developed Technology Rights [Member] In-place leases Leases, Acquired-in-Place [Member] Gasification technology license Gasification Technology [Member] Gasification Technology [Member] Other Unclassified Indefinite-lived Intangible Assets [Member] Intangible Assets, [Line Items] Finite-Lived and Infinite-Lived Intangible Assets, by Segment [Line Items] Finite-Lived and Infinite-Lived Intangible Assets, by Segment [Line Items] Definite-lived intangible assets: [Abstract] Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Gross and Net [Abstract] Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Gross and Net [Abstract] 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: [Abstract] Indefinite-Lived Intangible Assets, Gross and Net [Abstract] Indefinite-Lived Intangible Assets, Gross and Net [Abstract] Net Carrying Value Indefinite-Lived Intangible Assets (Excluding Goodwill) Intangible assets, net Goodwill and intangible assets, net Intangible Assets, Net (Including Goodwill) Other assets Other Assets and Due from Correspondent Brokers Other Assets and Due from Correspondent Brokers Total Assets Accounts payable, accrued expenses and other liabilities Accounts Payable and Accrued Liabilities Total liabilities Equity attributable to Icahn Enterprises Total equity Total Liabilities and Equity Energy Segment [Abstract] Energy Segment [Abstract] Transaction Type [Axis] Transaction Type [Axis] Transaction [Domain] Transaction [Domain] Secondary offering [Member] Secondary offering [Member] Secondary offering [Member] Cushing, Oklahoma [Member] Cushing, Oklahoma [Member] Cushing, Oklahoma [Member] Coffeyville, Kansas [Member] Coffeyville, Kansas [Member] Coffeyville, Kansas [Member] Wynnewood, Oklahoma [Member] Wynnewood, Oklahoma [Member] Wynnewood, Oklahoma [Member] CVR Partners, LP [Member] CVR Partners, LP [Member] CVR Partners, LP [Member] Petroleum [Member] Crude Oil [Member] Crude Oil Gathering [Member] Crude Oil Gathering [Member] Crude Oil Gathering [Member] 486110 Pipeline Transportation of Crude Oil [Member] 486110 Pipeline Transportation of Crude Oil [Member] CVR Refining, LP [Member] CVR Refining, LP [Member] CVR Refining, LP [Member] CVR Energy, Inc. [Member] CVR Energy, Inc. [Member] CVR Energy, Inc. [Member] Noncontrolling Interest, Increase from Subsidiary Equity Issuance Noncontrolling Interest, Increase from Subsidiary Equity Issuance Consolidation, Less than Wholly Owned Subsidiary, Parent Ownership Interest, Changes, Purchase of Interest by Parent Consolidation, Less than Wholly Owned Subsidiary, Parent Ownership Interest, Changes, Purchase of Interest by Parent Production, Barrels of Oil Per Day Production, Barrels of Oil Per Day Production, Barrels of Oil Per Day Acres of land Acres of land Acres of land Crude Oil Pipeline, Length, Miles Crude Oil Pipeline, Length, Miles Crude Oil Pipeline, Length, Miles Production, Barrels of Oil, Storage Capacity Production, Barrels of Oil, Storage Capacity Production, Barrels of Oil, Storage Capacity Production, Barrels of Oil, Combined Refinery Related Storage Capacity Production, Barrels of Oil, Combined Refinery Related Storage Capacity Production, Barrels of Oil, Combined Refinery Related Storage Capacity Production, Tons of Ammonia Per Day Production, Tons of Ammonia Per Day Production, Tons of Ammonia Per Day Production, Tons of Urea and Ammonium Nitrate Per Day Production, Tons of Urea and Ammonium Nitrate Per Day Production, Tons of Urea and Ammonium Nitrate Per Day Production, Cubic Feet of Hydrogen Per Day Production, Cubic Feet of Hydrogen Per Day Production, Cubic Feet of Hydrogen Per Day 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 (loss) earnings of subsidiaries Income (Loss) from Equity Method Investments Interest expense Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows [Abstract] Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows [Abstract] Cash flows from operating activities: Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Operating Activities [Abstract] Adjustments to reconcile net (loss) income to net cash provided by operating activities: Adjustments to Reconcile Net Income (Loss) to Cash Provided by (Used in) Operating Activities [Abstract] Net loss (gain) from securities transactions Gain (Loss) on Investments Purchases of securities Payments to Acquire Marketable Securities Proceeds from sales of securities Proceeds from Sale and Maturity of Marketable Securities Purchases to cover securities sold, not yet purchased Purchases to Cover Securities Sold Not Yet Purchased Purchases to cover securities sold not yet purchased Proceeds from securities sold, not yet purchased Investment Sold, Not yet Purchased, Sale Proceeds Changes in receivables and payables relating to securities transactions Increase (Decrease) in Broker-Dealer Related Receivables (Payables), Net Loss on extinguishment of debt 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. Deferred taxes Increase (Decrease) in Deferred Income Taxes Other, net Other Operating Activities, Cash Flow Statement Changes in cash held at consolidated affiliated partnerships and restricted cash Increase (Decrease) in Restricted Cash for Operating Activities 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 Accrued expenses and other liabilities Increase (Decrease) in Other Accrued Liabilities Net cash (used in) provided by operating activities Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Operating Activities Cash flows from investing activities: Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Investing Activities [Abstract] Capital expenditures Payments to Acquire Productive Assets Acquisition of ARL Acquisitions of businesses, net of cash acquired Payments to Acquire Businesses, Net of Cash Acquired Purchases of investments Payments to Acquire Investments Other, net Payments for (Proceeds from) Other Investing Activities Net cash used in investing activities Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Investing Activities Cash flows from financing activities: Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Financing Activities [Abstract] Investment segment distributions Capital Distributions To Non Controlling Interests Cash distributions paid to non-controlling investors in the Private Funds Investment segment contributions Capital Contributions by Non-controlling Interests Cash contributions by non-controlling investors in the Private Funds Partnership contributions Proceeds from Partnership Contribution Partnership distributions Distribution Made to Limited Partner, Cash Distributions Paid Proceeds from offering of subsidiary equity Proceeds from subsidiary equity issuance Proceeds from subsidiary equity issuance 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 Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Financing Activities Effect of exchange rate changes on cash and cash equivalents Effect of Exchange Rate on Cash and Cash Equivalents Net change in cash of assets held for sale Net Change in Cash of Assets Held for Sale Net Change in Cash of Assets Held for Sale Net (decrease) increase in cash and cash equivalents Cash and Cash Equivalents, Period Increase (Decrease) Cash and cash equivalents, beginning of period Cash and cash equivalents, end of period Supplemental information: Supplemental Cash Flow Information [Abstract] Cash payments for interest, net of amounts capitalized Interest Paid, Net Net cash (receipts) payments for income taxes Income Taxes Paid, Net Distribution payable to Icahn Enterprises unitholders Distrubtion payable to LP unit holders Distrubtion payable to LP unit holders Non-cash capital expenditures additions included in liabilities Construction in Progress Expenditures Incurred but Not yet Paid AOCI, Post-employment Benefits, net of tax Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Pension and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans, Net of Tax AOCI, Hedge instruments, net of tax Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Cumulative Changes in Net Gain (Loss) from Cash Flow Hedges, Effect Net of Tax AOCI, Translation adjustments and other, net of tax Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Translation adjustments and other, net of tax Accumulated adjustment, net of tax, that results from the process of translating subsidiary financial statements and foreign equity investments into the reporting currency from the functional currency of the reporting entity, net of reclassification of realized foreign currency translation gains or losses. Also includes other immaterial balances. Accumulated other comprehensive loss Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax Other Comprehensive (Income) Loss, Pension and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans, Adjustment, before Reclassification Adjustments, Net of Tax Other Comprehensive (Income) Loss, Pension and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans, Adjustment, before Reclassification Adjustments, Net of 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), Reclassification Adjustment from AOCI, Pension and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans, for Net Gain (Loss), Net of 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 Other Comprehensive (Income) Loss, Pension and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans, Adjustment, Net of 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. Equity method investments Equity Method Investments Other investments Other Investments Investments Subsequent Events Subsequent Events [Text Block] Automotive Segment [Abstract] Automotive Segment [Abstract] Equity Issued in Business Combination [Member] Equity Issued in Business Combination [Member] Restructuring Type [Axis] Restructuring Type [Axis] Type of Restructuring [Domain] Type of Restructuring [Domain] IEH Auto [Member] IEH Auto [Member] IEH Auto [Member] TRW [Member] TRW [Member] TRW [Member] Pep Boys [Member] Pep Boys [Member] Pep Boys [Member] Restructuring Plan [Axis] Restructuring Plan [Axis] Restructuring Plan [Domain] Restructuring Plan [Domain] Restructuring 2013 [Member] [Member] Restructuring 2013 [Member] [Member] Restructuring 2013 [Member] Number of distribution centers Number of Distribution Centers Number of Distribution Centers Number of Stores Number of Stores Number of independent wholesalers in network Number of independent wholesalers in network Number of independent wholesalers in network Payments to Acquire Businesses, Gross Payments to Acquire Businesses, Gross Noncontrolling Interest, Increase from Business Combination Noncontrolling Interest, Increase from Business Combination Business Combination, Bargain Purchase, Gain Recognized, Amount Business Combination, Bargain Purchase, Gain Recognized, Amount Business Combination, Consideration Transferred, Including Equity Interest in Acquiree Held Prior to Combination Business Combination, Consideration Transferred, Including Equity Interest in Acquiree Held Prior to Combination Gross amount of transferred receivables under factoring arrangement Transferor's Interests in Transferred Financial Assets, Fair Value Gross amount of transferred receivables under factoring arrangements qualifying as sales Gross accounts receivable factored, qualifying as sales Gross accounts receivable under factoring facilities qualify as sales. Proceeds from transferred receivables under factoring arrangements qualifying as sales Cash Flows Between Transferor and Transferee, Proceeds from New Transfers Expenses associated with transferred receivables under factoring arrangements Securitization or Asset-backed Financing Arrangement, Financial Asset for which Transfer is Accounted as Sale, Gain (Loss) on Sale Maximum exposure associated with transferred receivables under factoring arrangements Continuing Involvement with Transferred Financial Assets, Principal Amount Outstanding Restructuring, expected cost Restructuring and Related Cost, Expected Cost Proceeds from rights offering Proceeds From Rights Offering Proceeds From Rights Offering Payments to Acquire Interest in Subsidiaries and Affiliates Payments to Acquire Interest in Subsidiaries and Affiliates Use of proceed type [Axis] Use of proceed type [Axis] Use of proceed type [Axis] Use of proceed type [Domain] Use of proceed type [Domain] [Domain] for Use of proceed type [Axis] Variable Rate Option [Axis] Variable Rate Option [Axis] Variable Rate Option [Axis] Variable Rate Option [Domain] Variable Rate Option [Domain] Variable Rate Option [Domain] Base Rate [Member] Base Rate [Member] EuroDollar [Member] Eurodollar [Member] Debt Repurchase Description [Axis] Debt Repurchase Description [Axis] Debt Repurchase Description [Axis] Debt Repurchase Description [Domain] Debt Repurchase Description [Domain] Debt Repurchase Description [Domain] CVR 2022 Notes [Member] CVR 2022 Notes [Member] CVR 2022 Notes [Member] ABL Credit Facility [Member] ABL Credit Facility [Member] ABL Credit Facility [Member] CVR Partners Credit Facility [Member] CVR Partners Credit Facility [Member] CVR Partners Credit Facility [Member] Term Loan Facility Use of portion of debt proceeds Use of portion of debt proceeds Use of portion of debt proceeds Gross proceeds from sale of senior unsecured notes Proceeds from Issuance of Senior Long-term Debt Line of Credit Facility, Current Borrowing Capacity Line of Credit Facility, Current Borrowing Capacity Line of credit facility, incremental borrowing increase Line of credit facility, incremental borrowing increase Line of credit facility, incremental borrowing increase Letters of credit sublimit as a percentage of total facility commitment Line of Credit Facility, Maximum Borrowing Capacity, Letters of Credit Sublimit as a Percentage of Total Facility Commitment Line of Credit Facility, Maximum Borrowing Capacity, Letters of Credit Sublimit as a Percentage of Total Facility Commitment Line of credit facility, potential increase in maximum borrowing capacity if covenant requirements met Line of Credit Facility, Potential Increase in Maximum Borrowing Capacity if Covenant Requirements Met Line of Credit Facility, Potential Increase in Maximum Borrowing Capacity if Covenant Requirements Met Availability under ABL credit facility Line of Credit Facility, Remaining Borrowing Capacity Letters of credit outstanding Other [Abstract] Other [Abstract] Las Vegas, Nevada [Member] [Member] Las Vegas, Nevada [Member] [Member] Las Vegas, Nevada [Member] Location of operations, State or country [Axis] Location of operations, State or country [Axis] Location of operations, State or country [Axis] State or country of operations [Domain] State or country of operations [Domain] State or country of operations [Domain] MASSACHUSETTS MASSACHUSETTS FLORIDA FLORIDA Viskase [Member] Viskase [Member] Viskase [Member] Number of manufacturing facilities Nnumber of Manufacturing Facilities Nnumber of Manufacturing Facilities Percentage of revenues from foreign countries Disclosure on Geographic Areas, Revenue from External Customers Attributed to Foreign Countries, Percentage Disclosure on Geographic Areas, Revenue from External Customers Attributed to Foreign Countries, Percentage Number of Real Estate Properties Number of Real Estate Properties Number of residential units for future development Number of Units of Residential Housing in Future Development Number of Units of Residential Housing in Future Development Real estate assets pledged to collateralize mortgages Pledged Assets, Other, Not Separately Reported on Statement of Financial Position 2016 Operating Leases, Future Minimum Payments Receivable, Current 2017 Operating Leases, Future Minimum Payments Receivable, in Two Years 2017 Operating Leases, Future Minimum Payments Receivable, in Three Years 2018 Operating Leases, Future Minimum Payments Receivable, in Four Years 2019 Operating Leases, Future Minimum Payments Receivable, in Five Years Thereafter Operating Leases, Future Minimum Payments Receivable, Thereafter Operating Leases, Future Minimum Payments Receivable Operating Leases, Future Minimum Payments Receivable Business combination, commitment to purchase, price per share Business combination, commitment to purchase, price per share Business combination, commitment to purchase, price per share Amount of backstop of rights offering Amount of backstop of rights offering Amount of backstop of rights offering Business Combination, Step Acquisition, Equity Interest in Acquiree, Remeasurement Loss Business Combination, Step Acquisition, Equity Interest in Acquiree, Remeasurement Loss Investment Sector [Axis] Investment Sector [Axis] Investment Sector [Domain] Investment Sector [Domain] Basic Materials [Member] Basic Materials [Member] Basic Materials [Member] Communications [Member] Communications [Member] Communications [Member] Consumer, non-cyclical [Member] Consumer, non-cyclical [Member] Consumer, non-cyclical [Member] Consumer, cyclical [Member] Consumer, cyclical [Member] Consumer, cyclical [Member] Diversified [Member] Diversified [Member] Diversified [Member] Energy sector [Member] Energy sector [Member] Energy sector [Member] Financial [Member] Financial [Member] Financial [Member] Sovereign Debt [Member] Sovereign Debt [Member] Funds [Member] Funds [Member] Funds [Member] Industrial [Member] Industrial [Member] Industrial [Member] Technology [Member] Technology [Member] Technology [Member] Utilities [Member] Utilities [Member] Utilities [Member] Corporate Debt Securities [Member] Corporate Debt Securities [Member] Collateralized Mortgage Backed Securities [Member] Collateralized Mortgage Backed Securities [Member] Trading Securities Trading Securities Mortgage-backed securities: [Abstract] Mortgage-backed securities: [Abstract] Mortgage-backed securities: [Abstract] Financial Instruments Sold, Not yet Purchased, at Fair Value [Abstract] Financial Instruments Sold, Not yet Purchased, at Fair Value [Abstract] Marketable Securities, Equity Securities [Abstract] Marketable Securities, Equity Securities [Abstract] Senior unsecured notes [Member] Additional 2020 Notes [Member] Additional 2020 Notes [Member] Additional 2020 Notes [Member] Debt Instrument, Basis Spread on Variable Rate Proceeds from Issuance of Debt Proceeds from Issuance of Debt Increase in borrowing capacity [Member] Increase in borrowing capacity [Member] Increase in borrowing capacity [Member] Credit Facility [Axis] Credit Facility [Axis] Credit Facility [Domain] Credit Facility [Domain] Revolving Credit Facility [Member] Revolving Credit Facility [Member] Debt Facility [Member] Debt Facility [Member] Debt Facility [Member] IEH Auto ABL Credit Facility [Member] IEH Auto ABL Credit Facility [Member] IEH Auto ABL Credit Facility [Member] Tranche B Loan [Member] Tranche B Loan [Member] Tranche B Loan [Member] Tranche C Loan [Member] Tranche C Loan [Member] Tranche C Loan [Member] Revolving credit facility, unused borrowing availability Debt, Weighted Average Interest Rate Debt, Weighted Average Interest Rate Long-term Debt, Gross Long-term Debt, Gross Line of Credit Facility Aggregate Principal Amount Upon Acceleration Line of Credit Facility Aggregate Principal Amount Upon Acceleration Line of Credit Facility Aggregate Principal Amount Upon Acceleration Additional borrowing availability Additional borrowing availability Additional borrowing availability Debt Line of Credit Facility, Fair Value of Amount Outstanding Property, Plant and Equipment [Abstract] Schedule of Property, Plant and Equipment, Net Property, Plant and Equipment [Table Text Block] Schedule of Goodwill [Table] Schedule of Goodwill [Table] Goodwill [Line Items] Goodwill [Line Items] Gross carrying amount Goodwill, Gross Acquisitions Goodwill, Acquired During Period Goodwill, Translation Adjustments Goodwill, Translation Adjustments Accumulated impairment Goodwill, Impaired, Accumulated Impairment Loss Impairment of goodwill Goodwill, Impairment Loss Net carrying value Debt facilities [Member] Secured credit facilities [Member] Secured Debt [Member] Other Debt Obligations [Member] Other Debt Obligations [Member] Schedule Of Earnings Per LP Unit Schedule of Earnings Per Share, Basic and Diluted [Table Text Block] Statement of Comprehensive Income [Abstract] Accumulated other comprehensive loss Inventories, Net [Abstract] Inventories, Net [Abstract] Raw materials Inventory, Raw Materials, Net of Reserves Work in process Inventory, Work in Process, Net of Reserves Finished goods Inventory, Finished Goods, Net of Reserves Inventories, net 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] Loss Contingencies [Table] Loss Contingencies [Table] Unrecorded Unconditional Purchase Obligation by Category of Item Purchased [Axis] Unrecorded Unconditional Purchase Obligation by Category of Item Purchased [Axis] Unconditional Purchase Obligation, Category of Goods or Services Acquired [Domain] Unconditional Purchase Obligation, Category of Goods or Services Acquired [Domain] Petroleum Transportation [Member] Petroleum Transportation [Member] Petroleum Transportation [Member] Other Commitments [Axis] Other Commitments [Axis] Other Commitments [Domain] Other Commitments [Domain] Vitol agreement [Member] Vitol agreement [Member] Vitol agreement [Member] Environmental Remediation Site [Axis] Environmental Remediation Site [Axis] Environmental Remediation Site [Domain] Environmental Remediation Site [Domain] Coffeyville, Kansas Refinery and Phillipsburg, Kansas Terminal Facility [Member] Coffeyville, Kansas Refinery and Phillipsburg, Kansas Terminal Facility [Member] Coffeyville, Kansas Refinery and Phillipsburg, Kansas Terminal Facility [Member] Geographical [Axis] Geographical [Axis] Geographical [Domain] Geographical [Domain] Kansas KANSAS Litigation Claimant [Axis] Litigation Claimant [Axis] Litigation Claimant [Axis] Litigation Claimant [Domain] Litigation Claimant [Domain] Litigation Claimant [Domain] Goldman [Member] Goldman [Member] Goldman [Member] Deutsche Bank [Member] Deutsche Bank [Member] Deutsche Bank [Member] CRNF [Member] CRNF [Member] CRNF [Member] CRRM [Member] CRRM [Member] CRRM [Member] WRC [Member] WRC [Member] WRC [Member] CRRM and CRT [Member] CRRM and CRT [Member] CRRM and CRT [Member] Loss Contingency Nature [Axis] Loss Contingency Nature [Axis] Loss Contingency, Nature [Domain] Loss Contingency, Nature [Domain] Wynnewood Consent Order [Member] Wynnewood Consent Order [Member] Wynnewood Consent Order [Member] Litigation Status [Axis] Litigation Status [Axis] Litigation Status [Domain] Litigation Status [Domain] Pending Litigation [Member] Pending Litigation [Member] Litigation Case [Axis] Litigation Case [Axis] Litigation Case [Domain] Litigation Case [Domain] Crude Oil Discharge [Member] Crude Oil Discharge [Member] Crude Oil Discharge [Member] EPA, Second Consent Decree, Clean Air Act [Member] EPA, Second Consent Decree, Clean Air Act [Member] EPA, Second Consent Decree, Clean Air Act [Member] ODEQ [Member] ODEQ [Member] ODEQ [Member] Loss Contingencies [Line Items] Loss Contingencies [Line Items] Term of unconditional purchase obligation for petroleum transportation Unrecorded Unconditional Purchase Obligations Term Of Service Provided Unrecorded Unconditional Purchase Obligations Term Of Service Provided Number of days for prior notice of nonrenewal Number of days for prior notice of nonrenewal Number of days for prior notice of nonrenewal Renewal term of agreement Renewal term of agreement Renewal term of agreement Environmental Costs Recognized, Capitalized in Period Environmental Costs Recognized, Capitalized in Period Loss Contingency, Estimate of Possible Loss Loss Contingency, Estimate of Possible Loss Loss Contingency, Range of Possible Loss, Maximum Loss Contingency, Range of Possible Loss, Maximum Domestic Refineries Entered into Environmental Regulatory Concent Decree, Minimum Percentage of Domestic Refining Capacity Domestic Refineries Entered into Environmental Regulatory Concent Decree, Minimum Percentage of Domestic Refining Capacity Domestic Refineries Entered into Environmental Regulatory Concent Decree, Minimum Percentage of Domestic Refining Capacity Biofuel blending obligation Biofuel blending obligation Biofuel blending obligation Cost of RINs Cost of RINs Expenses incurred to purchase additional rewnewable identification numbers Environmental Compliance Costs, Anticipated Cost Environmental Compliance Costs, Anticipated Cost Environmental Compliance Costs, Anticipated Cost Environmental Exit Costs, Costs Accrued to Date Environmental Exit Costs, 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Gain (Loss) Recognized in Income Derivative Instruments Not Designated as Hedging Instruments, Gain (Loss), Net 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 Financing Costs Equity in (income) loss of subsidiary Depreciation and amortization 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 Payments to Acquire Investments Net cash provided by (used in) investing activities Net cash (used in) provided by financing activities Net change in cash and cash equivalents Gaming Segment [Abstract] Gaming Segment [Abstract] Tropicana [Member] Tropicana [Member] Tropicana [Member] LOUISIANA LOUISIANA NEVADA NEVADA INDIANA INDIANA NEW JERSEY NEW JERSEY ARUBA ARUBA MISSISSIPPI MISSISSIPPI MISSOURI MISSOURI Number of casinos Number of Casinos Number of Casinos Owned and Operated Square footage of casino space Casino space, square footage Casino space, square footage Number of slot machines Number of Slot Machines Number of Slot Machines Number of table games Number of Table Games Number of Table Games Number of hotel rooms Number of Hotel Rooms Number of Hotel Rooms 2016 Unrecorded Unconditional Purchase Obligation, Due in Next Twelve Months 2017 Unrecorded Unconditional Purchase Obligation, Due within Two Years 2018 Unrecorded Unconditional Purchase Obligation, Due within Three Years 2019 Unrecorded Unconditional Purchase Obligation, Due within Four Years 2020 Unrecorded Unconditional Purchase Obligation, Due within Five Years Thereafter Unrecorded Unconditional Purchase Obligation, Due after Five Years Total future minimum payments for unconditional purhcase obligations Unconditional purchase obligation for petroleum transportation, payable ratably over nine years Unrecorded Unconditional Purchase Obligations, Due Ratably over Nine Years Unrecorded Unconditional Purchase Obligations, Due Ratably over Nine Years Number of barrels of petroleum to be transported pursuant to unconditional purchase obligation UnrecordedUnconditionalPurchaseObligationsNumberOfBarrelsToBeTransported UnrecordedUnconditionalPurchaseObligationsNumberOfBarrelsToBeTransported LIBOR [Member] LIBOR [Member] LIBOR [Member] ARI Refinanced Term Loan [Member] ARI Refinanced Term Loan [Member] ARI Refinanced Term Loan ARILL2TermLoan [Domain] ARILL2TermLoan [Domain] LL2TermLoan [Domain] Lease Fleet Financings [Member] Lease Fleet Financings [Member] Lease Fleet Financings ARI 2015 Notes [Member] ARI 2015 Notes [Member] ARI 2015 Notes [Member] Citizen Bank Revolver [Member] Citizen Bank Revolver [Member] Citizen Bank Revolver [Member] Class A-1 Notes [Member] Class A-1 Notes [Member] Class 2012 A-1 Notes [Member] Class A-2 Notes [Member] Class A-2 Notes [Member] Class A-2 Notes [Member] Class 2014 A-1 Notes [Member] Class 2014 A-1 Notes [Member] Class 2014 A-1 Notes [Member] Class 2014 A-2 Notes [Member] Class 2014 A-2 Notes [Member] Class 2014 A-2 Notes [Member] RCF Term Loan [Member] RCF Term Loan [Member] RCF Term Loan [Member] NCF I Term Loan [Member] NCF I Term Loan [Member] NCF I Term Loan [Member] NCF II Term Loan [Member] NCF II Term Loan [Member] NCF II Term Loan [Member] Heartland Bank Term Loan [Member] [Member] Heartland Bank Term Loan [Member] [Member] Heartland Bank Term Loan [Member] [Member] Credit Agricole Term Loan [Member] Credit Agricole Term Loan [Member] Credit Agricole Term Loan [Member] Banc of America Leasing & Capital, LLC [Member] Banc of America Leasing & Capital, LLC [Member] Banc of America Leasing & Capital, LLC [Member] Talmer Bank [Member] Talmer Bank [Member] Talmer Bank [Member] Proceeds from (Repayments of) Debt Proceeds from (Repayments of) Debt Proceeds from Issuance of Long-term Debt Proceeds from Issuance of Long-term Debt Debt Instrument, Interest Rate, Increase (Decrease) Debt Instrument, Interest Rate, Increase (Decrease) Future debt expected to be incurred by new capitalized entity Future debt expected to be incurred by new capitalized entity Future debt expected to be incurred by new capitalized entity Use of portion of debt proceeds to repay other debt Use of portion of debt proceeds to repay other debt Use of portion of debt proceeds to repay other debt Proceeds from issuance of Long-term debt after proceeds used to refinance prior debt Proceeds from issuance of Long-term debt after proceeds used to refinance prior debt Proceeds from issuance of Long-term debt after proceeds used to refinance prior debt Long-term Debt Long-term Debt Proceeds from Issuance of Private Placement Proceeds from Issuance of Private Placement Interest reserve amount Interest reserve amount Interest reserve amount 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 Entity Central Index Key Entity Central Index Key Current Fiscal Year End Date Current Fiscal Year End Date Entity Filer Category Entity Filer Category Document Type Document Type Document Period End Date Document Period End Date Document Fiscal Year Focus Document Fiscal Year Focus Document Fiscal Period Focus Document Fiscal Period Focus Amendment Flag Amendment Flag Entity Common Stock, Shares Outstanding Entity Common Stock, Shares Outstanding Entity Well-known Seasoned Issuer Entity Well-known Seasoned Issuer Entity Voluntary Filers Entity Voluntary Filers Entity Current Reporting Status Entity Current Reporting Status Entity Public Float Entity Public Float Tropicana Credit Facilities [Member] Tropicana Credit Facilities [Member] Tropicana Credit Facilities [Member] Debt discount rate at time of issuance Debt discount rate at time of issuance Debt discount rate at time of issuance Letter of credit facility, maximum aggregate amount Letter of Credit Facility, Maximum Borrowing Capacity Letter of Credit Facility, Maximum Borrowing Capacity Amortization of Financing Costs and Discounts Trailing Months Used to Calculate Leverage Ratios Trailing Months Used to Calculate Leverage Ratios Trailing Months Used to Calculate Leverage Ratios Schedule of Future Minimum Rental Receipts [Table Text Block] Schedule of Future Minimum Rental Receipts [Table Text Block] Schedule of Future Minimum Rental Receipts [Table Text Block] Geographic Information [Abstract] Geographic Information [Abstract] Schedule of Revenues from External Customers and Long-Lived Assets [Table] Schedule of Revenues from External Customers and Long-Lived Assets [Table] United States UNITED STATES Geographic information, Germany [Member] GERMANY Geographic information, Other [Member] 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] 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] Fair Value, Assets Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation [Table] Fair Value, Assets Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation [Line Items] Schedule of Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring Basis Schedule of Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring Basis [Table Text Block] Schedule of investments measured at fair value with Level 3 Input Fair Value, Assets Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation [Table Text Block] Schedule of Fair Value Measurements, Nonrecurring Fair Value Measurements, Nonrecurring [Table Text Block] Schedule of fair value of defined benefit plan asset [Table Text Block] Schedule of fair value of defined benefit plan asset [Table Text Block] Schedule of fair value of defined benefit plan asset [Table Text Block] Schedule of Level Three Defined Benefit Plan Assets Roll Forward [Table Text Block] Schedule of Effect of Significant Unobservable Inputs, Changes in Plan Assets [Table Text Block] Segment Reporting, Policy [Policy Text Block] Segment Reporting, Policy [Policy Text Block] Other Income (Loss) [Member] Other Income (Loss) Not Specified [Member] Other Income (Loss) not otherwise specified in the disclosure [Member] Swap [Member] Swap [Member] Derivatives, Fair Value [Line Items] Derivatives, Fair Value [Line Items] Fair value of open commodity positions, net liability Realized loss on commodity derivatives Gain (Loss) on Sale of Commodity Contracts Barrels of crack spreads hedging margin on future gasoline and distillate production Derivative, Nonmonetary Notional Amount Balance of debt partially hedged Derivative, Amount of Hedged Item Lower fixed interest rate paid on interest rate swaps Derivative, Fixed Interest Rate Frequency of interest rate swap settlements Interest Rate Cash Flow Hedge Derivative, Settlement Frequency Interest Rate Cash Flow Hedge Derivative, Settlement Frequency Average fixed interest rate paid on interest rate swaps Derivative, Average Fixed Interest Rate Realized loss on interest rate swaps reclassified from AOCI into interest expense Derivative, Gain (Loss) on Derivative, Net Fair value of property, plant and equipment impaired during the period Fair Value Of Property Plant And Equipment Impaired During Period Fair Value Of Property Plant And Equipment Impaired During Period Impairment of property, plant and equipment Impairment of Long-Lived Assets Held-for-use Fair value of investments impaired during the period Fair Value of Investments Impaired During the Period Fair Value of investments Impaired During the Period Impairment of investments Equity Method Investment, Other than Temporary Impairment Fair value of intangible assets impaired during the period Fair Value of intangible Impaired During the Period Fair Value of intangible Impaired During the Period Impairment of intangible assets Impairment of Intangible Assets (Excluding Goodwill) Fair Value of Property, Goodwill Impaired During the Period Fair value of goodwill impaired during the period Fair value of goodwill impaired during the period Impairment of goodwill Fair value of assets held for sale impaired during the period Fair Value of assets held for sale Impaired During the Period Fair Value of assets held for sale Impaired During the Period Impairment of assets held for sale Impairment of Long-Lived Assets to be Disposed of 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] 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] Transfers (out) in Fair Value, Measurement with Unobservable Inputs Reconciliation, Recurring Basis, Asset Transfers Into Level 3 Gross proceeds Fair Value, Measurement with Unobservable Inputs Reconciliation, Recurring Basis, Asset, Sales Foreign currency exchange rate movements FairValueMeasurementWithUnobservableInputsReconciliationRecurringBasisAssetForeignExchangeMovements Fair Value Measurement With Unobservable Inputs Reconciliation Recurring Basis Asset Foreign Exchange Movements Realized/unrealized (losses) gains, net FairValueMeasurementWithUnobservableInputsReconciliationRecurringBasisAssetGain Fair Value Measurement With Unobservable Inputs Reconciliation Recurring Basis Asset Net Realized And Unrealized Gains Losses Purchases and settlements, net Fair Value, Measurement with Unobservable Inputs Reconciliation, Recurring Basis, Asset, Purchases, (Sales), Issuances, (Settlements) Starfire Holding Corporation [Member] Starfire Holding Corporation [Member] Starfire Holding Corporation [Member] PSC Metals [Member] PSC Metals [Member] PSC Metals [Member] WPH [Member] WPH [Member] WPH [Member] 2016 Operating Leases, Future Minimum Payments Due, Next Twelve Months 2017 Operating Leases, Future Minimum Payments, Due in Two Years 2018 Operating Leases, Future Minimum Payments, Due in Three Years 2019 Operating Leases, Future Minimum Payments, Due in Four Years 2020 Operating Leases, Future Minimum Payments, Due in Five Years Thereafter Operating Leases, Future Minimum Payments, Due Thereafter Total future minimum lease payments under operating leases Operating Leases, Future Minimum Payments Due Site Contingency, Loss Exposure in Excess of Accrual, Best Estimate Site Contingency, Loss Exposure in Excess of Accrual, Best Estimate Asset Retirement Obligation Asset Retirement Obligation Litigation claim gain amount Litigation claim gain amount Litigation claim gain amount Litigation counterclaim amount Litigation counterclaim amount Litigation counterclaim amount Tax refund as result of Trop AC tax appeal settlement Tax refund as result of Trop AC tax appeal settlement Tax refund as result of Trop AC tax appeal settlement Long-term Purchase Commitment, Amount Long-term Purchase Commitment, Amount Prepaid Rent Prepaid Rent Incentive from Lessor Incentive from Lessor Amount of prepaid rent payments Amount of prepaid rent payments Amount of prepaid rent payments Tax to be paid as result of Trop AC tax appeal settlement Tax to be paid as result of Trop AC tax appeal settlement Tax to be paid as result of Trop AC tax appeal settlement Real estate tax credits used Real estate tax credits used Real estate tax credits used Professional Fees Professional Fees Affiliate ownership in parent company general partner Affiliate ownership in parent company general partner Affiliate ownership in parent company general partner Ownership Percentage by Principal Owner Ownership Percentage by Principal Owner Ownership percentage by principal owner in related party 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 Subsidiary Indemnity Agreement, Pension Funding Contingencies As A Result of Being In The Controlled Group, Distribution Limitation, Net Worth Floor Property, Plant and Equipment, Net Property, Plant and Equipment Disclosure [Text Block] Schedule of Net Periodic Benefit Costs Schedule of Net Benefit Costs [Table Text Block] Schedule of Defined Benefit Plans Disclosures [Table Text Block] Schedule of Defined Benefit Plans Disclosures [Table Text Block] Schedule of Assumptions Used [Table Text Block] Schedule of Assumptions Used [Table Text Block] Schedule of projected benefit obligation in excess of plan assets [Table Text Block] Schedule of projected benefit obligation in excess of plan assets [Table Text Block] Schedule of projected benefit obligation in excess of plan assets Schedule of Accumulated Benefit Obligations in Excess of Fair Value of Plan Assets [Table Text Block] Schedule of Accumulated Benefit Obligations in Excess of Fair Value of Plan Assets [Table Text Block] Schedule of Health Care Cost Trend Rates [Table Text Block] Schedule of Health Care Cost Trend Rates [Table Text Block] Schedule of Effect of One-Percentage-Point Change in Assumed Health Care Cost Trend Rates [Table Text Block] Schedule of Effect of One-Percentage-Point Change in Assumed Health Care Cost Trend Rates [Table Text Block] Schedule of Expected Benefit Payments [Table Text Block] Schedule of Expected Benefit Payments [Table Text Block] Schedule of Future Minimum Rental Payments for Operating Leases and Unrecorded Unconditional Purchase Obligations Disclosure Contractual Obligation, Fiscal Year Maturity Schedule [Table Text Block] Schedule of Future Minimum Rental Payments for Operating Leases [Table Text Block] Schedule of Future Minimum Rental Payments for Operating Leases [Table Text Block] Investments in subsidiaries, net Investments in and Advance to Affiliates, Subsidiaries, Associates, and Joint Ventures Deferred financing costs Deferred Finance Costs, Net Goodwill and Intangible Assets, Net Goodwill and Intangible Assets Disclosure [Text Block] Other (Loss) Income, Net Other Income and Other Expense Disclosure [Text Block] Partner Type [Axis] Partner Type [Axis] Partner Type of Partners' Capital Account, Name [Domain] Partner Type of Partners' Capital Account, Name [Domain] Other comprehensive (loss) income, net of tax: Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax [Abstract] Other comprehensive (loss) income, net of tax Comprehensive (loss) income Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax, Including Portion Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest Less: Comprehensive loss (income) attributable to non-controlling interests Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax, Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest Comprehensive (loss) income attributable to Icahn Enterprises Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax, Attributable to Parent Comprehensive (loss) income attributable to Icahn Enterprises allocable to: Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax, Attributable to Parent [Abstract] Gross Profit Gross Profit Revenues Schedule of Inventory, Current [Table Text Block] Schedule of Inventory, Current [Table Text Block] Secured Debt [Member] Senior credit facility Line of credit annual fee on borrowed amount Line of credit annual fee on borrowed amount The fee, expressed as a percentage of the line of credit facility, for used credit capacity under the credit facility. 2016 Long-term Debt, Maturities, Repayments of Principal in Next Twelve Months 2017 Long-term Debt, Maturities, Repayments of Principal in Year Two 2018 Long-term Debt, Maturities, Repayments of Principal in Year Three 2019 Long-term Debt, Maturities, Repayments of Principal in Year Four 2020 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 2016 Capital Leases, Future Minimum Payments Due, Next Twelve Months 2017 Capital Leases, Future Minimum Payments Due in Two Years 2018 Capital Leases, Future Minimum Payments Due in Three Years 2019 Capital Leases, Future Minimum Payments Due in Four Years 2020 Capital Leases, Future Minimum Payments Due in Five Years Thereafter Capital Leases, Future Minimum Payments Due Thereafter Capital Leases, Future Minimum Payments Due Capital Leases, Future Minimum Payments Due Component of Other Income (Loss), Net [Table] Component of Other Income (Loss), Ne [Table] Component of Other Income (Loss), Net [Table] Entity by Location [Axis] Entity by Location [Axis] France [Member] France [Member] France [Member] Canada and UK [Member] Canada and UK [Member] Canada and UK [Member] Gain on acquisition [Member] Gain on acquisition [Member] Gain on acquisition [Member] Realized and unrealized (loss) gain on derivatives, net (Note 7) Unrealized gain loss on derivatives [Member] Unrealized gain loss on derivatives Tax settlement gain (loss) Settlement loss with taxing authority [Member] Settlement loss with taxing authority [Member] Net gain (loss) on disposition of assets Gain (loss) on dispositions of assets [Member] Gain (loss) on dispositions of assets Predecessor claim settlement Predecessor claim settlement [Member] Predecessor claim settlement [Member] Equity earnings from non-consolidated affiliates Income (loss) from non-consolidated affiliates [Member] Income (loss) from non-consolidated affiliates [Member] Foreign currency translation loss Foreign Currency Gain (Loss) [Member] Other Component of Other Income (Loss), Net [Line Items] Component of Other Income (Loss), Net [Line Items] Component of Other Income (Loss), Net [Line Items] Segment Reporting Segment Reporting Disclosure [Text Block] Goodwill and Intangible Assets [Table] Goodwill and Intangible Assets [Table] Goodwill and Intangible Assets [Table] Disposal Group Name [Axis] Disposal Group Name [Axis] Disposal Groups, Including Discontinued Operations, Name [Domain] Disposal Group Name [Domain] Purchase accounting adjustment account [Axis] Purchase accounting adjustment account [Axis] Purchase accounting adjustment account [Axis] Purchase accounting adjustment account [Domain] Purchase accounting adjustment account [Domain] [Domain] for Purchase accounting adjustment account [Axis] Goodwill and Intangible Assets [Line Items] Goodwill and Intangible Assets [Line Items] Goodwill and Intangible Assets [Line Items] Amortization expense associated with definite-lived intangible assets Amortization of Intangible Assets 2016 Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Amortization Expense, Next Twelve Months 2017 Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Amortization Expense, Year Two 2018 Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Amortization Expense, Year Three 2019 Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Amortization Expense, Year Four 2020 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. Business combinations, allocation to net tangible assets business combinations, recognized identifiable assets, net tangible assets business combinations, recognized identifiable assets, net tangible assets Business combination, allocation to goodwill Business combination, allocation to definite-lived Intangible assets Business Combination, Recognized Identifiable Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed, Finite-Lived Intangibles Business combination, allocation to indefinite-lived Intangible assets Business Combination, Recognized Identifiable Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed, Indefinite-Lived Intangible Assets Income Tax Authority [Axis] Income Tax Authority [Axis] Income Tax Authority [Domain] Income Tax Authority [Domain] Foreign Tax Authority [Member] Foreign Tax Authority [Member] Domestic Tax Authority [Member] Domestic Tax Authority [Member] Oklahoma OKLAHOMA United Kingdom UNITED KINGDOM Other foreign jurisdictions [Member] Other Foreign countries [Member] Other Foreign countries [Member] 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 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 asset, Post-employment benefits, including pensions Deferred Tax Assets, Tax Deferred Expense, Compensation and Benefits, Postretirement Benefits Deferred tax asset, Reoganization costs deferred tax asset, reoganization costs Amount before allocation of valuation allowances of deferred tax asset attributable to deductible temporary differences from reorganization costs. 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 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 asset Deferred Tax Assets, Net Changes in valuation allowance on deferred tax assets Valuation Allowance, Deferred Tax Asset, Increase (Decrease), Amount Undistributed Earnings of Foreign Subsidiaries Undistributed Earnings of Foreign Subsidiaries Cash and cash equivalents held by foreign subsidiaries cash and cash equivalents, held by foreign subsidiaries cash and cash equivalents, held by foreign subsidiaries Deferred tax asst for tax loss carryforwrds and credits, subject to expiration Deferred Tax Assets, Operating Loss Carryforwards, Subject to Expiration Domestic deferred tax asst for tax loss carryforwards and credits, subject to expiration Deferred Tax Assets, Operating Loss Carryforwards, Domestic Operating Loss Carryforwards, Expiration Dates Operating Loss carryforward, year of expiration Operating Loss carryforward, year of expiration Foreign deferred tax asst for tax loss carryforwards and credits, subject to expiration Deferred Tax Assets, Operating Loss Carryforwards, Foreign Release of deferred tax allowance Release of deferred tax allowance Release of deferred tax allowance Domestic tax credits Domestic tax credits Domestic tax credits Valuation allowance, deferred tax asset, change in balance Valuation allowance, deferred tax asset, change in balance Valuation allowance, deferred tax asset, change in balance Organization, Consolidation and Presentation of Financial Statements [Abstract] Icahn Enterprises G.P. [Member] Percentage of equity ownership in operating subsidiary General partner ownership interest in Icahn Enterprises Holdings Subsidiary of Limited Liability Company (LLC) or Limited Partnership (LP), Managing Member or General Partner, Ownership Interest Subsidiary of Limited Liability Company (LLC) or Limited Partnership (LP), Managing Member or General Partner, Ownership Interest Affiliate ownership interest in Icahn Enterprises (in units) Limited Liability Company (LLC) or Limited Partnership (LP), Members or Limited Partners, Ownership Interest, Units Limited Liability Company (LLC) or Limited Partnership (LP), Members or Limited Partners, Ownership Interest, Units Affiliate ownership interest in Icahn Enterprises Schedule of Property, Plant and Equipment [Table] Property, Plant and Equipment [Table] Property Subject to or Available for Operating Lease [Axis] Property Subject to or Available for Operating Lease [Axis] Property Subject to or Available for Operating Lease [Domain] Property Subject to or Available for Operating Lease [Domain] Railcars [Member] Real estate properties [Member] Real estate properties [Member] Real estate properties [Member] Land [Member] Land [Member] Assets Leased to Others [Member] Assets Leased to Others [Member] Construction in Progress [Member] Construction in Progress [Member] 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 Depreciation and amortization expense related to property, plant and equipment Depreciation Description of Business and Basis of Presentation Organization, Consolidation and Presentation of Financial Statements Disclosure and Significant Accounting Policies [Text Block] Automotive, Railcar, Food Packaging and Home Fashion Segments [Member] Automotive, Railcar, Food Packaging and Home Fashion Segments [Member] Automotive, Railcar, Food Packaging and Home Fashion Segments [Member] Consolidation, Variable Interest Entity, Policy [Policy Text Block] Consolidation, Variable Interest Entity, Policy [Policy Text Block] Equity Method Investments, Policy [Policy Text Block] Equity Method Investments, Policy [Policy Text Block] Cost Method Investments, Policy [Policy Text Block] Cost Method Investments, Policy [Policy Text Block] Reclassification, Policy [Policy Text Block] Reclassification, Policy [Policy Text Block] Use of Estimates, Policy [Policy Text Block] Use of Estimates, 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] 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] Planned Major Maintenance Activities, Policy [Policy Text Block] Property, Plant and Equipment, Planned Major Maintenance Activities, 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] Asset Retirement Obligations, Policy [Policy Text Block] Asset Retirement Obligations, 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] Earnings Per Share, Policy [Policy Text Block] Earnings Per Share, 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 General partnership policy [Policy Text Block] General partnership policy [Policy Text Block] General partnership policy in the Company 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] Sales and sales related tax [Policy Text Block] Sales and sales related tax [Policy Text Block] Sales and sales related tax [Policy Text Block] Engineering and tooling [Policy Text Block] Engineering and tooling [Policy Text Block] Engineering and tooling policy Shipping and Handling Cost, Policy [Policy Text Block] Shipping and Handling Cost, Policy [Policy Text Block] Research and Development Expense, Policy [Policy Text Block] Research and Development Expense, Policy [Policy Text Block] Restructuring [Policy Text Block] Restructuring [Policy Text Block] Restructuring policy New Accounting Pronouncements and Changes in Accounting Principles [Text Block] New Accounting Pronouncements and Changes in Accounting Principles [Text Block] Description of New Accounting Pronouncements Not yet Adopted [Text Block] Description of New Accounting Pronouncements Not yet Adopted [Text Block] Schedule Of Earnings Per LP Unit [Table] Schedule Of Earnings Per LP Unit [Table] Schedule Of Earnings Per LP Unit [Table] Shareholders' Equity Class [Axis] Shareholders' Equity Class [Axis] Fair Value by Shareholders' Equity Class [Domain] Fair Value by Shareholders' Equity Class [Domain] Capital Units by Class [Axis] Capital Units by Class [Axis] Capital Unit, Class [Domain] Capital Unit, Class [Domain] Common Stock [Member] Common Stock [Member] Earnings Per LP Unit [Line Items] Earnings Per LP Unit [Line Items] Earnings Per LP Unit [Line Items] Net (loss) income attributable to Icahn Enterprises Income (Loss) from Continuing Operations Attributable to Parent Dilutive securities, effect on earnings per unit from converison of debt securities Dilutive securities, effect on earnings per unit from converison of debt securities Dilutive securities, effect on earnings per unit from converison of debt securities Dilutive effect of variable rate convertible notes, Units Incremental Common Shares Attributable to Dilutive Effect of Conversion of Debt Securities Units distributed to LP unitholders Distribution Made to Limited Partner, Unit Distribution Newly issued depositary units Stock Issued During Period, Shares, New Issues Equity issuance, per unit amount Equity issuance, per unit amount Equity issuance, per unit amount Underwriter option to purchase additional depositary units Underwriter option to purchase additional depositary units Underwriter option to purchase additional depositary units Proceeds from Issuance or Sale of Equity Proceeds from Issuance or Sale of Equity Fair Value Measurements Fair Value Disclosures [Text Block] Financial Instruments Financial Instruments Disclosure [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 changes in accumulated other comprehensive income [Table Text Block] Significant Accounting Policies [Text Block] Significant Accounting Policies [Text Block]