Segment Reporting [Abstract] Determination of what constitutes a segment Segment Reporting, Policy [Policy Text Block] Disaggregation of Revenue [Table] Disaggregation of Revenue [Table] Contract with Customer, Sales Channel [Axis] Contract with Customer, Sales Channel [Axis] Contract with Customer, Sales Channel [Domain] Contract with Customer, Sales Channel [Domain] Petroleum products Petroleum Products [Member] Nitrogen fertilizer products Nitrogen fertilizer products [Member] Nitrogen fertilizer products [Member] Automotive services Automotive services revenue [Member] Automotive services revenue Aftermarket parts sales Automotive parts [Member] Automotive parts Segments [Axis] Segments [Axis] Segment [Domain] Segments [Domain] Energy Segment Energy Segment [Member] Energy Segment [Member] Automotive Segment Automotive Segment [Member] Automotive Segment [Member] Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items] Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items] Revenue from contracts with customers Revenue from Contract with Customer, Excluding Assessed Tax 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 Fair Value Disclosures [Abstract] Determination of when transfers between fair value levels occurs Fair Value Transfer, Policy [Policy Text Block] Commitments and Contingencies Disclosure [Abstract] Commitments and Contingencies Commitments and Contingencies Disclosure [Text Block] Organization, Consolidation and Presentation of Financial Statements [Abstract] Description of Business Organization, Consolidation and Presentation of Financial Statements Disclosure [Text Block] Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax [Abstract] AOCI, Translation adjustments, net of tax Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Foreign Currency Translation Adjustment, Net of Tax AOCI, Post-retirement benefits and other, net of tax Accumulated other comprehensive income (loss), defined benefit plans, net of tax Accumulated other comprehensive income (loss), defined benefit plans, net of tax Accumulated other comprehensive loss, net of tax Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax Other comprehensive income (loss), translation adjustments, before reclassification adjustment, net of tax Other comprehensive income (loss), foreign currency translation adjustments, before reclassification adjustment, after of tax Other comprehensive income (loss), foreign currency translation adjustments, before reclassification adjustment, after of tax Other comprehensive income (loss), post-retirement benefits, before reclassification adjustment, net of tax Other Comprehensive (Income) Loss, Defined Benefit Plan, before Reclassification Adjustment, after Tax Other comprehensive income (loss), before reclassification adjustment, net of tax Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), before Reclassifications, Net of Tax Other comprehensive income, translation adjustments, gain (loss), reclassification from AOCI, net of tax Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Gain (loss), Foreign Currency Transaction and Translation Reclassification Adjustment from AOCI, Net of Tax Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Gain (loss), Foreign Currency Transaction and Translation Reclassification Adjustment from AOCI, Net of Tax Other comprehensive income (loss), post-retirement benefits, gain (loss), reclassification adjustment from AOCI, after Tax Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Defined Benefit Plan, Gain (Loss), Reclassification Adjustment from AOCI, after Tax Other comprehensive income, gain (loss) reclassification adjustment from AOCI, net of tax Other comprehensive income, gain (loss), reclassification adjustment from AOCI, after tax Other comprehensive income, gain (loss), reclassification adjustment from AOCI, after tax Other comprehensive loss, translation adjustments, net of tax Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Foreign Currency Transaction and Translation Adjustment, Net of Tax Other comprehensive income (loss), post-retirement benefits, net of tax Other Comprehensive (Income) Loss, Defined Benefit Plan, after Reclassification Adjustment, after Tax Other comprehensive loss, net of tax Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax Elimination of stranded tax effects resulting from tax legislation, translation adjustments and other Elimination of stranded tax effects resulting from tax legislation, translation adjustments Elimination of stranded tax effects resulting from tax legislation, translation adjustments Elimination of stranded tax effects resulting from tax legislation, post-retirement benefits Elimination of stranded tax effects resulting from tax legislation, Defined benefit plan Elimination of stranded tax effects resulting from tax legislation, Defined benefit plan Elimination of stranded tax effects resulting from tax legislation Elimination of stranded tax effects resulting from tax legislation Elimination of stranded tax effects resulting from tax legislation Accounting Policies [Abstract] Schedule of Variable Interest Entities [Table] Schedule of Variable Interest Entities [Table] Legal Entity [Axis] Legal Entity [Axis] Entity [Domain] Entity [Domain] Icahn Enterprises Holdings Icahn Enterprises Holdings [Member] Icahn Enterprises Holdings [Member] Variable Interest Entity [Line Items] Variable Interest Entity [Line Items] Variable interest entities Schedule of Variable Interest Entities [Table Text Block] Income Tax Disclosure [Abstract] Income Taxes Income Tax Disclosure [Text Block] Discontinued Operations and Disposal Groups [Abstract] Disposal Groups, Including Discontinued Operations [Table] Disposal Groups, Including Discontinued Operations [Table] Disposal Group Name [Axis] Disposal Group Name [Axis] Disposal Group Name [Domain] Disposal Group Name [Domain] Federal-Mogul Federal-Mogul [Member] Federal-Mogul [Member] Tropicana Tropicana [Member] Tropicana [Member] ARI American Railcar Industries [Member] American Railcar Industries [Member] Disposal Group Classification [Axis] Disposal Group Classification [Axis] Disposal Group Classification [Domain] Disposal Group Classification [Domain] Discontinued operations, held for sale or disposed of by sale Discontinued Operations, Held-for-sale or Disposed of by Sale [Member] Income Statement, Balance Sheet and Additional Disclosures by Disposal Groups, Including Discontinued Operations [Line Items] Income Statement, Balance Sheet and Additional Disclosures by Disposal Groups, Including Discontinued Operations [Line Items] Net sales Disposal group, including discontinued operation, net sales Disposal group, including discontinued operation, net sales Other revenues from operations Disposal group, including discontinued operation, other revenues from operations Disposal group, including discontinued operation, other revenues from operations Interest and dividend income Disposal Group, Including Discontinued Operation, Interest Income Disposal group, including discontinued operation, gain (loss) on disposition of assets Disposal group, including discontinued operation, gain (loss) on disposition of assets Disposal group, including discontinued operation, gain (loss) on disposition of assets Other (loss) income, net Disposal Group, Including Discontinued Operation, Other Income (Loss) Amount of other income (loss) attributable to disposal group, including, but not limited to, discontinued operation. Revenue Disposal Group, Including Discontinued Operation, Revenue Cost of goods sold Disposal Group, Including Discontinued Operation, Costs of Goods Sold Restructuring, net Disposal group, including discontinued operation, restructuring, net Disposal group, including discontinued operation, restructuring, net Impairment Disposal group, including discontinued operation, impairment Disposal group, including discontinued operation, impairment Other expenses from operations Disposal group, including discontinued operations, other expenses from operations Disposal group, including discontinued operations, other expenses from operations Selling, general and administrative Disposal Group, Including Discontinued Operation, General and Administrative Expense Interest expense Disposal Group, Including Discontinued Operation, Interest Expense Expenses Disposal group, including discontinued operation, costs and expenses Disposal group, including discontinued operation, costs and expenses Income from discontinued operations before income tax expense Discontinued Operation, Income (Loss) from Discontinued Operation, before Income Tax Income tax expense Discontinued Operation, Tax Effect of Discontinued Operation Income from discontinued operations Income (Loss) from Discontinued Operations, Net of Tax, Including Portion Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest Less: income from discontinued operations attributable to non-controlling interests Income (Loss) from Discontinued Operations, Net of Tax, Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest Income from discontinued operations attributable to Icahn Enterprises Income (Loss) from Discontinued Operations, Net of Tax, Attributable to Parent Capital expenditures Capital Expenditure, Discontinued Operations Depreciation and amortization Depreciation and Amortization, Discontinued Operations Fair Value, Recurring and Nonrecurring [Table] Fair Value, Recurring and Nonrecurring [Table] Measurement Frequency [Axis] Measurement Frequency [Axis] Measurement Frequency [Domain] Measurement Frequency [Domain] Recurring measurement Fair Value, Recurring [Member] Fair Value Hierarchy and NAV [Axis] Fair Value Hierarchy and NAV [Axis] Fair Value, Measurements, Fair Value Hierarchy [Domain] Fair Value Hierarchy and NAV [Domain] Level 1 Fair Value, Inputs, Level 1 [Member] Level 2 Fair Value, Inputs, Level 2 [Member] Level 3 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 [Abstract] Assets [Abstract] Investments Investments measured at fair value Investments measured at fair value Derivative contracts, at fair value (asset) Derivative Asset Assets, Fair Value Disclosure Assets, Fair Value Disclosure Liabilities [Abstract] Liabilities [Abstract] Securities sold, not yet purchased, at fair value Financial Instruments Sold, Not yet Purchased, at Fair Value Other liabilities Other Liabilities, Fair Value Disclosure Derivative contracts at fair value (liability) Derivative Liability Financial and Nonfinancial Liabilities, Fair Value Disclosure Financial and Nonfinancial Liabilities, Fair Value Disclosure Disaggregation of revenue Disaggregation of Revenue [Table Text Block] Condensed statements of operations by reporting segment Condensed Income Statement [Table Text Block] Condensed balance sheets by reporting segment Condensed Balance Sheet [Table Text Block] Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities Disclosure [Abstract] Derivative [Table] Investment Segment Investment Segment [Member] Investment Segment [Member] Income Statement Location [Axis] Income Statement Location [Axis] Income Statement Location [Domain] Income Statement Location [Domain] Net gain from investment activities Net Gain from Investment Activities [Member] Net Gain from Investment Activities [Member] Cost of goods sold Cost of Goods and Service Benchmark [Member] Hedging Designation [Axis] Hedging Designation [Axis] Hedging Designation [Domain] Hedging Designation [Domain] Not designated as hedging instrument Not Designated as Hedging Instrument [Member] Derivative Instrument [Axis] Derivative Instrument [Axis] Primary underlying risk: Derivative Contract [Domain] Equity contracts Equity Contract [Member] Credit contracts Credit Risk Contract [Member] Commodity contracts Commodity Contract [Member] Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss) [Line Items] Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss) [Line Items] Gain (loss) on derivatives not designated as hedging instruments recognized in income Derivative Instruments Not Designated as Hedging Instruments, Gain (Loss), Net Discontinued Operations Disposal Groups, Including Discontinued Operations, Disclosure [Text Block] Leases [Abstract] Lessee, Operating Lease, Liability, Payment, Due [Abstract] Lessee, Operating Lease, Liability, Payment, Due [Abstract] Remainder of 2019 Lessee, Operating Lease, Liability, Payments, Remainder of Fiscal Year 2020 Lessee, Operating Lease, Liability, Payments, Due Year Two 2021 Lessee, Operating Lease, Liability, Payments, Due Year Three 2022 Lessee, Operating Lease, Liability, Payments, Due Year Four 2023 Lessee, Operating Lease, Liability, Payments, Due Year Five Thereafter Lessee, Operating Lease, Liability, Payments, Due after Year Five Total lease payments Lessee, Operating Lease, Liability, Payments, Due Less: imputed interest Lessee, Operating Lease, Liability, Undiscounted Excess Amount Operating lease liability Operating Lease, Liability Finance Lease, Liability, Payment, Due [Abstract] Finance Lease, Liability, Payment, Due [Abstract] Remainder of 2019 Finance Lease, Liability, Payments, Remainder of Fiscal Year 2020 Finance Lease, Liability, Payments, Due Year Two 2021 Finance Lease, Liability, Payments, Due Year Three 2022 Finance Lease, Liability, Payments, Due Year Four 2023 Finance Lease, Liability, Payments, Due Year Five Thereafter Finance Lease, Liability, Payments, Due after Year Five Total lease payments Finance Lease, Liability, Payment, Due Less: imputed interest Finance Lease, Liability, Undiscounted Excess Amount Financing lease liability Finance Lease, Liability Earnings Per Unit [Abstract] Schedule Of Earnings Per LP Unit [Table] Schedule Of Earnings Per LP Unit [Table] Schedule Of Earnings Per LP Unit [Table] Partner Type [Axis] Partner Type [Axis] Partner Type of Partners' Capital Account, Name [Domain] Partner Type of Partners' Capital Account, Name [Domain] Limited partners Limited Partner [Member] Members or Partners [Axis] Members or Partners [Axis] Members or Partners, including managing members or members or general partners or limited partners [Axis] Partner Name [Domain] Partner Name [Domain] Partner Name [Domain] Mr. Icahn and affiliates Principal Owners and Affiliates [Member] Mr. Icahn and certain other entities beneficially owned by Mr. Icahn Earnings Per LP Unit [Line Items] Earnings Per LP Unit [Line Items] Earnings Per LP Unit [Line Items] Net (loss) income attributable to Icahn Enterprises from continuing operations Income (Loss) from Continuing Operations, Net of Tax, Attributable to Parent Basic income (loss) per LP unit Net Income (Loss), Per Outstanding Limited Partnership Unit, Basic, Net of Tax [Abstract] Continuing operations Income (Loss) from Continuing Operations, Per Outstanding Limited Partnership Unit, Basic, Net of Tax Discontinued operations Income (Loss) from Discontinued Operations, Net of Tax, Per Outstanding Limited Partnership Unit, Basic Basic income (loss) per LP unit Net Income (Loss), Per Outstanding Limited Partnership Unit, Basic, Net of Tax Basic weighted average LP units outstanding Weighted Average Limited Partnership Units Outstanding, Basic Diluted income (loss) per LP unit Net Income (Loss), Net of Tax, Per Outstanding Limited Partnership Unit, Diluted [Abstract] Continuing operations Income (Loss) from Continuing Operations, Net of Tax, Per Outstanding Limited Partnership Unit, Diluted Discontinued operations Income (Loss) from Discontinued Operations, Net of Tax, Per Outstanding Limited Partnership Unit, Diluted Diluted income (loss) per LP unit Net Income (Loss), Net of Tax, Per Outstanding Limited Partnership Unit, Diluted Diluted weighted average LP units outstanding Weighted Average Limited Partnership Units Outstanding, Diluted LP units distributed Distribution Made to Limited Partner, Unit Distribution Aggregate cash distributions to depositary unitholders Aggregate cash distributions to depositary unitholders Aggregate cash distributions to depositary unitholders Potential aggregate sales proceeds from equity offering Potential aggregate sales proceeds from equity offering Potential aggregate sales proceeds from equity offering LP units sold Partners' Capital Account, Units, Sale of Units Proceeds from sale of LP units Proceeds from Sale of Interest in Partnership Unit Restricted units vested during period (number of units) Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Vested in Period Related Party Transactions [Abstract] Schedule of Related Party Transactions, by Related Party [Table] Schedule of Related Party Transactions, by Related Party [Table] Product and Service [Axis] Product and Service [Axis] Product and Service [Domain] Product and Service [Domain] Investment Investment [Member] Investment Investment, Name [Axis] Investment, Name [Axis] Investment, Name [Domain] Investment, Name [Domain] 767 Leasing 767 Leasing [Member] 767 Leasing [Member] Related Party [Axis] Related Party [Axis] Related Party [Domain] Related Party [Domain] Consolidated VIE Consolidated VIE [Member] Consolidated VIE Hertz (equity method investee) Equity Method Investee [Member] ACF ACF [Member] ACF [Member] Insight Portfolio Group LLC Insight Portfolio Group LLC [Member] Insight Portfolio Group LLC [Member] Related Party Transactions, by Transaction Type [Axis] Related Party Transaction [Axis] Related Party Transaction [Domain] Related Party Transaction [Domain] Investment in funds Investment in funds [Member] Investment in funds [Member] Expense sharing arrangement Expense Sharing Agreement [Member] Expense Sharing Agreement [Member] Receipts and revenue from related party 7600 Services, Miscellaneous Repair Services [Member] Payments to and purchases from related party Purchases from related party [Member] Purchases from related party Railcar component sales Railcar component sales [Member] Railcar component sales [Member] Buying group operating expenses Operating Expense [Member] Related Party Transaction [Line Items] Related Party Transaction [Line Items] Amount of transaction with related party Related Party Transaction, Amounts of Transaction Related party transaction, balance Noncontrolling Interest in Variable Interest Entity 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 Assets at non-consolidated VIE Variable Interest Entity, Nonconsolidated, assets at VIE Variable Interest Entity, Nonconsolidated, assets at VIE Liabilities at non-consolidated VIE Variable Interest Entity, Nonconsolidated, liabilities at VIE Variable Interest Entity, Nonconsolidated, liabilities at VIE Investment in non-consolidated VIE during the period investment in nonconsolidated VIE investment in nonconsolidated VIE Investment balance in non-consolidated VIE as of end of period period investment in related parties investment in related parties Net Income Per LP Unit Earnings Per Share [Text Block] Statement of Comprehensive Income [Abstract] Statement [Table] Statement [Table] General partner General Partner [Member] Statement [Line Items] Statement [Line Items] Net (loss) income Net Income (Loss), Including Portion Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest Other comprehensive income (loss), net of tax: Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax [Abstract] Translation adjustments Post-retirement benefits and other Other comprehensive loss, 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 allocated to: Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax, Attributable to Parent [Abstract] Subsequent Events [Abstract] Subsequent Events Subsequent Events [Text Block] Reconciliation of Assets from Segment to Consolidated [Table] Reconciliation of Assets from Segment to Consolidated [Table] Food Packaging Segment Food Packaging Segment [Member] Food Packaging Segment [Member] Metals Segment Metals Segment [Member] Metals Segment [Member] Real Estate Segment Real Estate Segment [Member] Real Estate Segment [Member] Home Fashion Segment Home Fashion Segment [Member] Home Fashion Segment [Member] Mining Segment Mining segment [Member] Mining Segment [Member] Railcar Segment Railcar Segment [Member] Railcar Segment [Member] Holding Company Holding Company [Member] Holding Company [Member] Segment Reporting, Asset Reconciling Item [Line Items] Segment Reporting, Asset Reconciling Item [Line Items] ASSETS Cash and cash equivalents Cash and Cash Equivalents, at Carrying Value Cash held at consolidated affiliated partnerships and restricted cash Restricted Cash and Cash Equivalents Investments Investments Accounts receivable, net Accounts Receivable, after Allowance for Credit Loss Inventories, net Inventory, Net Property, plant and equipment, net Property, Plant and Equipment, Net Goodwill and intangible assets, net Intangible Assets, Net (Including Goodwill) Other assets Other Assets and Due from Correspondent Brokers Other Assets and Due from Correspondent Brokers Assets Assets LIABILITIES AND EQUITY Liabilities and Equity [Abstract] Accounts payable, accrued expenses and other liabilities Accounts Payable and Accrued Liabilities Debt Debt and Lease Obligation Total liabilities Liabilities Equity attributable to Icahn Enterprises Partners' Capital Equity attributable to non-controlling interests Partners' Capital Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest Total equity Partners' Capital, Including Portion Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest Liabilities and Equity Liabilities and Equity Debt Disclosure [Abstract] Debt Debt Disclosure [Text Block] Fair Values Derivatives, Balance Sheet Location, by Derivative Contract Type [Table] Fair Values Derivatives, Balance Sheet Location, by Derivative Contract Type [Table] Balance Sheet Location [Axis] Balance Sheet Location [Axis] Balance Sheet Location [Domain] Balance Sheet Location [Domain] Other assets Other Assets [Member] Accrued expenses and other liabilities Accrued Expenses and Other Liabilities [Member] Accrued Expenses and Other Liabilities [Member] Derivatives Not Designated as Hedging Instruments, Fair Value [Line Items] Derivatives Not Designated as Hedging Instruments, Fair Value [Line Items] Derivatives Not Designated as Hedging Instruments, Fair Value [Line Items] Asset Derivatives, Gross Derivative Asset, Fair Value, Gross Asset Liability Derivatives, Gross Derivative Liability, Fair Value, Gross Liability Netting across contract types Derivative, Fair Value, Amount Offset Against Collateral, Net Collateral for derivative positions Collateral Already Posted, Aggregate Fair Value Discontinued Operations Disposal Groups, Including Discontinued Operations [Table Text Block] Statement of Partners' Capital [Abstract] Total Partners’ Equity Parent [Member] Non-controlling Interests Noncontrolling Interest [Member] Increase (Decrease) in Equity Increase (Decrease) in Partners' Capital [Roll Forward] Total equity Net loss Other comprehensive income (loss) Distribution payable Temporary Equity, Accretion of Dividends Distribution payable reversal Temporary equity, reversal of distribution payable Temporary equity, reversal of distribution payable Partnership distributions Partners' Capital Account, Distributions Partnership contributions Partners' Capital Account, Contributions Investment segment contributions Investment segment contributions Investment segment contributions Dividends and distributions to non-controlling interests in subsidiaries Noncontrolling Interest, Decrease from Distributions to Noncontrolling Interest Holders Cumulative effect adjustment from adoption of accounting principle Cumulative Effect on Retained Earnings, Net of Tax Changes in subsidiary equity and other Stockholders' Equity, Other Total equity Supplemental Cash Flow Information [Abstract] Supplemental cash flow information Schedule of Cash Flow, Supplemental Disclosures [Table Text Block] Cover page. Document Information [Table] Document Information [Table] Document Information [Line Items] Document Information [Line Items] Document Type Document Type Amendment Flag Amendment Flag Document Period End Date Document Period End Date Document Fiscal Period Focus Document Fiscal Period Focus Document Fiscal Year Focus Document Fiscal Year Focus Current Fiscal Year End Date Current Fiscal Year End Date Document Quarterly Report Document Quarterly Report Document Transition Report Document Transition Report Entity Central Index Key Entity Central Index Key Entity File Number Entity File Number Entity Registrant Name Entity Registrant Name Entity Incorporation, State or Country Code Entity Incorporation, State or Country Code Entity Tax Identification Number Entity Tax Identification Number Entity Address, Address Line One Entity Address, Address Line One Entity Address, Address Line Two Entity Address, Address Line Two Entity Address, City or Town Entity Address, City or Town Entity Address, State or Province Entity Address, State or Province Entity Address, Postal Zip Code Entity Address, Postal Zip Code City Area Code City Area Code Local Phone Number Local Phone Number Title of 12(b) Security Title of 12(b) Security Trading Symbol Trading Symbol Security Exchange Name Security Exchange Name Entity Current Reporting Status Entity Current Reporting Status Entity Interactive Data Current Entity Interactive Data Current Entity Filer Category Entity Filer Category Entity Small Business Entity Small Business Entity Emerging Growth Company Entity Emerging Growth Company Entity Shell Company Entity Shell Company Entity Common Stock, Shares Outstanding Entity Common Stock, Shares Outstanding Statement 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 used in operating activities: Adjustments to Reconcile Net Income (Loss) to Cash Provided by (Used in) Operating Activities [Abstract] Loss (income) from discontinued operations 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 Payments to cover securities sold, not yet purchased Purchases to Cover Securities Sold Not Yet Purchased Purchases to cover securities sold not yet purchased Proceeds from securities sold, not yet purchased Investment Sold, Not yet Purchased, Sale Proceeds Changes in receivables and payables relating to securities transactions Increase (Decrease) in Broker-Dealer Related Receivables (Payables), Net Gain on disposition of assets, net Gain (Loss) on Disposition of Assets Depreciation and amortization Depreciation, Depletion and Amortization Deferred taxes Increase (Decrease) in Deferred Income Taxes Other, net Other Operating Activities, Cash Flow Statement Changes in operating assets and liabilities Increase (Decrease) in Other Operating Assets and Liabilities, Net Net cash used in operating activities from continuing operations Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Operating Activities, Continuing Operations Net cash provided by operating activities from discontinued operations Cash Provided by (Used in) Operating Activities, Discontinued Operations Net cash (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 Property, Plant, and Equipment Acquisition of businesses, net of cash acquired Payments to Acquire Businesses, Net of Cash Acquired Purchases of investments Payments to Acquire Investments Proceeds from sale of investments Proceeds from Sale, Maturity and Collection of Investments Proceeds from sale of investments Proceeds from Sales of Business, Affiliate and Productive Assets Other, net Payments for (Proceeds from) Other Investing Activities Net cash provided by (used in) investing activities from continuing operations Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Investing Activities, Continuing Operations Net cash used in investing activities from discontinued operations Cash Provided by (Used in) Investing Activities, Discontinued Operations Net cash provided by (used in) investing activities Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Investing Activities Cash flows from financing activities: Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Financing Activities [Abstract] Investment segment contributions from non-controlling interests Proceeds from Contributions from Affiliates Partnership contributions Proceeds from Partnership Contribution Partnership distributions Payments of Dividends Purchase of additional interests in consolidated subsidiaries Payments to Acquire Additional Interest in Subsidiaries Dividends and distributions to non-controlling interests in subsidiaries Payments of Ordinary Dividends, Noncontrolling Interest Proceeds from Holding Company senior unsecured notes Proceeds from Issuance of Unsecured Debt Repayments of Holding Company senior unsecured notes Repayments of Unsecured Debt Proceeds from subsidiary borrowings Proceeds from Other Debt Repayments of subsidiary borrowings Repayments of Other Debt Other, net Proceeds from (Payments for) Other Financing Activities Net cash (used in) provided by financing activities from continuing operations Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Financing Activities, Continuing Operations Net cash used in financing activities from discontinued operations Cash Provided by (Used in) Financing Activities, Discontinued Operations Net cash used in financing activities Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Financing Activities Effect of exchange rate changes on cash and cash equivalents and restricted cash and restricted cash equivalents Effect of Exchange Rate on Cash and Cash Equivalents Add back change in cash and restricted cash of assets held for sale Net Change in Cash of Assets Held for Sale Net Change in Cash of Assets Held for Sale Net decrease in cash and cash equivalents and restricted cash and restricted cash equivalents Cash, Cash Equivalents, Restricted Cash and Restricted Cash Equivalents, Period Increase (Decrease), Including Exchange Rate Effect Cash and cash equivalents and restricted cash and restricted cash equivalents, beginning of period Cash, Cash Equivalents, Restricted Cash and Restricted Cash Equivalents Cash and cash equivalents and restricted cash and restricted cash equivalents, end of period Goodwill and Intangible Assets Disclosure [Abstract] Schedule of Definite-Lived and Indefinite-Lived Intangible Assets, by Segment [Table] Schedule of Finite-Lived and Indefinite-Lived Intangible Assets, by Segment [Table] Schedule of Finite-Lived and Indefinite-Lived Intangible Assets, by Segment [Table] Finite-Lived Intangible Assets by Major Class [Axis] Finite-Lived Intangible Assets by Major Class [Axis] Definite-lived intangible assets Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Major Class Name [Domain] Customer relationships Customer Relationships [Member] Other Unclassified Indefinite-lived Intangible Assets [Member] Intangible Assets, [Line Items] Finite-Lived and Infinite-Lived Intangible Assets, by Segment [Line Items] Finite-Lived and Infinite-Lived Intangible Assets, by Segment [Line Items] Definite-lived intangible assets: [Abstract] Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Gross and Net [Abstract] Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Gross and Net [Abstract] Gross carrying amount of definite-lived intangible assets Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Gross Accumulated amortization of definite-lived intangible assets Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Accumulated Amortization Net carrying amount of definite-lived intangible assets Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Net Net carrying amount of indefinite-lived intangible assets Indefinite-lived Intangible Assets (Excluding Goodwill) Intangible assets, net Intangible Assets, Net (Excluding Goodwill) Amortization of intangible assets Amortization of Intangible Assets Definite-lived intangible assets acquired Finite-lived Intangible Assets Acquired Inventory, Net [Abstract] Raw materials Inventory, Raw Materials, Net of Reserves Work in process Inventory, Work in Process, Net of Reserves Finished goods Inventory, Finished Goods, Net of Reserves Inventory, net Derivative [Table] Commodity contracts not considered probable of settlement Commodity contracts not considered probable of settlement [Member] Commodity contracts not considered probable of settlement RINs contracts Forward Contracts [Member] Derivative [Line Items] Derivative [Line Items] Fair value derivative instruments with credit risk related contingent features in a liability position Credit Risk Derivative Liabilities, at Fair Value Volume of derivatives (barrels) Derivative, Nonmonetary Notional Amount, Volume Number of derivatives Derivative, Number of Instruments Held Related Party Transactions Related Party Transactions Disclosure [Text Block] Credit Default Swap Credit Default Swap [Member] Volume of derivatives (barrels) 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 Short notional amount of credit default swap positions Derivative, Notional Amount Inventories, Net Inventory Disclosure [Text Block] Notional exposure of derivative instruments Schedule of Notional Amounts of Outstanding Derivative Positions [Table Text Block] Fair value and income recognized for derivatives not designated as hedging instruments Derivatives Not Designated as Hedging Instruments [Table Text Block] Schedule of Goodwill [Table] Schedule of Goodwill [Table] Goodwill [Line Items] Goodwill [Line Items] Gross carrying amount of goodwill Goodwill, Gross Accumulated impairment of goodwill Goodwill, Impaired, Accumulated Impairment Loss Net carrying amount of goodwill Goodwill Goodwill acquired Goodwill, Acquired During Period Schedule of Investments [Abstract] Schedule of Investments [Table] Schedule of Investments [Table] Other Segments and Holding Company Other Segments and Holding Company [Member] Other Segments and Holding Company [Member] Schedule of Investments [Line Items] Schedule of Investments [Line Items] Investments Investment [Table Text Block] Reconciliation of Operating Profit (Loss) from Segments to Consolidated [Table] Reconciliation of Operating Profit (Loss) from Segments to Consolidated [Table] Segment Reporting, Reconciling Item for Operating Profit (Loss) from Segment to Consolidated [Line Items] Segment Reporting, Reconciling Item for Operating Profit (Loss) from Segment to Consolidated [Line Items] Revenues: Revenues [Abstract] Net sales Net sales Net sales Other revenues from operations Other operating revenue Other operating revenue Net (loss) gain from investment activities Gain (Loss) on Investments, Excluding Other than Temporary Impairments Interest and dividend income Interest and Dividend Income, Operating Gain on disposition of assets, net Other income (loss), net Other Nonoperating Income (Expense) Revenues Revenues Expenses: Costs and Expenses [Abstract] Cost of goods sold Cost of goods sold (new) Cost of goods sold Other expenses from operations Cost of other revenue from operations Cost of other revenue from operations Selling, general and administrative Selling, General and Administrative Expense Restructuring, net Restructuring Charges Impairment Asset Impairment Charges Interest expense Interest Expense Expenses Costs and Expenses Income (loss) from continuing operations before income tax benefit (expense) Income (Loss) from Continuing Operations before Income Taxes, Noncontrolling Interest Income tax benefit Income Tax Expense (Benefit) (Loss) income from continuing operations Income (Loss) from Continuing Operations, Net of Tax, Including Portion Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest Less: net income (loss) attributable to non-controlling interests Income (Loss) from Continuing Operations, Net of Tax, Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest Supplemental information: Supplemental Income Statement Elements [Abstract] Capital expenditures Hertz Hertz [Member] Hertz Herbalife Herbalife [Member] Herbalife [Member] Caesars Caesars [Member] Caesars [Member] Investment Sector [Axis] Investment Sector [Axis] Investment Sector [Domain] Investment Sector [Domain] Basic materials Basic Materials [Member] Basic Materials [Member] Consumer, non-cyclical Consumer, non-cyclical [Member] Consumer, non-cyclical [Member] Consumer, cyclical Consumer, cyclical [Member] Consumer, cyclical [Member] Energy Energy sector [Member] Energy sector [Member] Financial Financial [Member] Financial [Member] Technology Technology [Member] Technology [Member] Other Other [Member] Other Investment Type [Axis] Investment Type [Axis] Investments [Domain] Investments [Domain] Equity securities: Equity Securities [Member] Corporate debt securities Debt Securities [Member] Unrealized gain (loss) on debt and equity securities still held Debt and Equity Securities, Unrealized Gain (Loss) Ownership percentage in investment measured at fair value that would otherwise be accounted for under equity method Equity Method Investment, Ownership Percentage Unrealized gain (loss) on equity method investments under fair value option Unrealized gain on equity method investments under fair value option Unrealized gain (loss) on equity method investments under fair value option Fair value of equity method investment under fair value option Fair Value of Equity Method Investment Under Fair Value Option Fair Value of Equity Method Investment Under Fair Value Option Supplemental cash flow information [Table] Supplemental cash flow information [Table] Supplemental cash flow information [Table] Supplemental cash flow information [Line Items] Supplemental cash flow information [Line Items] [Line Items] for Supplemental cash flow information [Table] Cash payments for interest, net of amounts capitalized Interest Paid, Excluding Capitalized Interest, Operating Activities Net cash payments (receipts) for income taxes, net of refunds Income Taxes Paid, Net Non-cash distribution to limited partner Supplemental cash flow, non-cash distribution Supplemental cash flow, non-cash distribution Goodwill Schedule of Goodwill [Table Text Block] Intangible assets, net 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] Description of Business [Table] Description of Business [Table] Description of Business Icahn Enterprises G.P. Icahn Enterprises G.P. [Member] Icahn Enterprises G.P. [Member] Investment Funds Investment Funds [Member] The Onshore Fund (Icahn Partners LP) and the Offshore Master Funds are collectively referred to as the “Investment Funds". The “Offshore Master Funds” consist of (i) Icahn Partners Master Fund LP, or Master Fund I, (ii) Icahn Partners Master Fund II LP, or Master Fund II and (iii) Icahn Partners Master Fund III LP, or Master Fund III. CVR Refining CVR Refining, LP [Member] CVR Refining, LP [Member] CVR Energy CVR Energy, Inc. [Member] CVR Energy, Inc. [Member] Ferrous Resources Ferrous Resources [Member] Ferrous Resources [Member] Viskase Viskase [Member] Viskase [Member] ARL ARL [Member] ARL [Member] Description of Business [Line Items] Description of Business [Line Items] [Line Items] for Description of Business 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 in Icahn Enterprises Limited Liability Company or Limited Partnership, Members or Limited Partners, Ownership Interest Fair value of interest in subsidiary Subsidiary of Limited Liability Company or Limited Partnership, Ownership Interest, Fair Value The fair value of investment held in the subsidiary investment funds by the limited liability company or limited partnership. Percentage of equity ownership in operating subsidiary Subsidiary of Limited Liability Company or Limited Partnership, Ownership Interest Payments to acquire additional interest in subsidiaries Proceeds from subsidiary rights offering Proceeds From Rights Offering Proceeds From Rights Offering Contribution to subsidiary Contribution to subsidiary Contribution to subsidiary Aggregate consideration for business to be disposed of Aggregate consideration for business to be disposed of Aggregate consideration for business to be disposed of Common units validly tendered and not properly withdrawn Common units validly tendered and not properly withdrawn Common units validly tendered and not properly withdrawn Business Acquisition, Equity Interest Issued or Issuable, Number of Shares Business Acquisition, Equity Interest Issued or Issuable, Number of Shares Consolidation, Less than Wholly Owned Subsidiary, Parent Ownership Interest, Changes, Issuance of Equity by Subsidiary to Noncontrolling Interests Consolidation, Less than Wholly Owned Subsidiary, Parent Ownership Interest, Changes, Issuance of Equity by Subsidiary to Noncontrolling Interests Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) Note [Text Block] Comprehensive Income (Loss) Note [Text Block] Lessee, Lease, Description [Table] Lessee, Lease, Description [Table] Property, plant and equipment, net Property, Plant and Equipment [Member] Debt Debt [Member] Property, Plant and Equipment, Type [Axis] Property, Plant and Equipment, Type [Axis] Property, Plant and Equipment, Type [Domain] Property, Plant and Equipment, Type [Domain] Assets leased to others Assets Leased to Others [Member] Lessee, Lease, Description [Line Items] Lessee, Lease, Description [Line Items] Operating lease right-of-use asset Operating Lease, Right-of-Use Asset Operating lease weighted average lease term, lessee Lessee, Operating Lease, Term of Contract Operating lease weighted average discount rate, lessee (percent) Operating Lease, Weighted Average Discount Rate, Percent Financing lease right-of-use asset Finance Lease, Right-of-Use Asset Operating lease expense Operating Lease, Expense Amortization of financing lease right-of-use assets Finance Lease, Right-of-Use Asset, Amortization Interest expense on financing lease liabilities Finance Lease, Interest Expense Operating lease rental revenue Operating Leases, Income Statement, Lease Revenue Operating lease minimum lease payments to be received in remainder of 2019 Lessor, Operating Lease, Payments to be Received, Remainder of Fiscal Year Operating lease minimum lease payments to be received in 2020 Lessor, Operating Lease, Payments to be Received, Two Years Operating lease minimum lease payments to be received after 2020 Lessor, operating leases, payments to be received, after year two Amount of lease payments to be received by lessor after second fiscal year following latest statement of financial position date for operating lease. Goodwill and Intangible Assets, Net Goodwill and Intangible Assets Disclosure [Text Block] Derivative Financial Instruments Financial Instruments Disclosure [Text Block] Equity method investments Equity Method Investments [Member] Other investments (measured at fair value) Other Investments [Member] Unrealized gains (losses) that relate to equity securities still held Equity Securities, FV-NI, Unrealized Gain (Loss) Accounting Policies [Table] Accounting Policies [Table] Accounting Policies Accounting policies [Line Items] Accounting policies [Line Items] Accounting policies [Line Items] Consolidation, Policy Consolidation, Policy [Policy Text Block] Accounting Changes [Text Block] Accounting Changes [Text Block] Reclassifications [Text Block] Reclassifications [Text Block] Consolidation, Variable Interest Entity, Policy [Policy Text Block] Consolidation, Variable Interest Entity, Policy [Policy Text Block] Fair Value of Financial Instruments, Policy Fair Value of Financial Instruments, Policy [Policy Text Block] Statement of cash flow, policy [Policy Text Block] Statement of cash flow, policy [Policy Text Block] Statement of cash flow, policy [Policy Text Block] Cash and Cash Equivalents, Restricted Cash and Cash Equivalents, Policy [Policy Text Block] Cash and Cash Equivalents, Restricted Cash and Cash Equivalents, Policy [Policy Text Block] Lessee, Leases [Policy Text Block] Lessee, Leases [Policy Text Block] Lessor, Leases [Policy Text Block] Lessor, Leases [Policy Text Block] New Accounting Pronouncements New Accounting Pronouncements, Policy [Policy Text Block] Description of New Accounting Pronouncements Not yet Adopted Description of New Accounting Pronouncements Not yet Adopted [Text Block] Fair Value Measurements Fair Value Disclosures [Text Block] Leases Lessee, Operating Leases [Text Block] Fair Value, Assets Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation [Table] Fair Value, Nonrecurring [Member] Fair Value, Nonrecurring [Member] Fair Value, Assets Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation [Line Items] Fair Value, Assets Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation, [Roll Forward] Fair Value, Assets Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation, Calculation [Roll Forward] Fair value of assets measured at fair value on a recurring basis Fair Value, Measurement with Unobservable Inputs Reconciliation, Recurring Basis, Asset Value Net gains recognized in income Fair Value, Measurement with Unobservable Inputs Reconciliation, Recurring Basis, Asset, Gain (Loss) Included in Earnings Sales Fair Value, Measurement with Unobservable Inputs Reconciliation, Recurring Basis, Asset, Sales Other Fair value, measurement with unobservable inputs reconciliation, recurring basis, assets, other Fair value, measurement with unobservable inputs reconciliation, recurring basis, assets, other Impairment of property, plant and equipment Impairment of Long-Lived Assets Held-for-use Statistical Measurement [Axis] Statistical Measurement [Axis] Statistical Measurement [Domain] Statistical Measurement [Domain] Minimum Minimum [Member] Maximum Maximum [Member] Attributable to Icahn Enterprises Attributable to Icahn Enterprises [Member] Attributable to Icahn Enterprises [Member] Income tax expense Income tax expense [Member] Income tax expense [Member] Cost of goods sold Cost of Sales [Member] Other income, net Other Income [Member] Equity Components [Axis] Equity Components [Axis] Equity Component [Domain] Equity Component [Domain] Cash and cash equivalents Cash and Cash Equivalents [Member] Cash held at consolidated affiliated partnerships and restricted cash Cash held at consolidated affiliated partnerships and restricted cash [Member] Cash held at consolidated affiliated partnerships and restricted cash Investments Investments [Member] Due from brokers Due from broker [Member] Due from broker [Member] Inventories, net Inventories [Member] Deferred tax liability Deferred tax liability [Member] Deferred tax liability [Member] Total equity Stockholders' Equity, Total [Member] Intangible assets, net Intangible assets, net [Member] Intangible assets, net [Member] Accounts payable, accrued expenses and other liabilities Accounts payable, accrued expenses and other liabilities [Member] Accounts payable, accrued expenses and other liabilities [Member] Securities sold, not yet purchased, at fair value Securities Sold, Not yet Purchased [Member] Due to brokers Due to brokers [Member] Due to brokers [Member] Other Segments Other Segments [Member] Restricted Cash and Cash Equivalents [Axis] Restricted Cash and Cash Equivalents [Axis] Cash and Cash Equivalents [Domain] Cash and Cash Equivalents [Domain] Cash held at consolidated affiliated partnerships Cash held at consolidated affiliated partnerships [Member] Cash held at consolidated affiliated partnerships Restricted cash Restricted cash [Member] Restricted cash New Accounting Pronouncement or Change in Accounting Principle, Effect of Adoption, Quantification New Accounting Pronouncement or Change in Accounting Principle, Cumulative Effect of Change on Equity or Net Assets New Accounting Pronouncement or Change in Accounting Principle, Effect of Change on Net Income New Accounting Pronouncement or Change in Accounting Principle, Effect of Change on Net Income Prior period reclassification adjustment Prior Period Reclassification Adjustment Income tax expense from discontinued operations Assets of VIE's Variable Interest Entity, Consolidated, Carrying Amount, Assets Liabilities of VIE's Variable Interest Entity, Consolidated, Carrying Amount, Liabilities Fair value of long-term debt Long-term Debt, Fair Value Description of Lessor Leasing Arrangements, Operating Leases Description of Lessor Leasing Arrangements, Operating Leases Deferred revenue Deferred Revenue Recognition of beginning deferred revenue Recognition of Deferred Revenue Revenue, remaining performance obligation Revenue, Remaining Performance Obligation, Amount Revenue, current portion of remaining performance obligation Revenue, current portion of remaining performance obligation Revenue, current portion of remaining performance obligation Number of leases Number of leases Number of leases Inventories, net Schedule of Inventory, Current [Table Text Block] Income tax (benefit) expense Effective income tax rate Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation, Percent Statutory federal income tax rate Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation, at Federal Statutory Income Tax Rate, Percent Schedule of Long-term Debt Instruments [Table] Schedule of Long-term Debt Instruments [Table] Debt Instrument [Axis] Debt Instrument [Axis] Debt Instrument, Name [Domain] Debt Instrument, Name [Domain] 6.000% senior unsecured notes due 2020 2020 Notes [Member] 2020 Notes [Member] 5.875% senior unsecured notes due 2022 2022 Notes [Member] 2022 Notes [Member] 6.250% senior unsecured notes due 2022 New 2022 Notes [Member] New 2022 Notes 6.750% senior unsecured notes due 2024 2024 Notes [Member] 2024 Notes 4.750% senior unsecured notes due 2024 4.750% 2024 Notes [Member] [Member] 4.750% 2024 Notes [Member] [Member] 4.750% senior unsecured notes due 2024 New 2024 Notes [Member] New 2024 Notes [Member] 6.375% senior unsecured notes due 2025 2025 Notes [Member] 2025 Notes 6.250% senior unsecured notes due 2026 2026 Notes [Member] 2026 Notes [Member] Reporting Segments Reporting Segments [Member] Reporting Segments Debt Instrument [Line Items] Debt Instrument [Line Items] Face value of debit issued Debt Instrument, Face Amount Interest rate on debt issued Debt Instrument, Interest Rate, Stated Percentage Gain on extinguishment of debt Gain (Loss) on Extinguishment of Debt Amortization included in interest expense Amortization of Debt Issuance Costs and Discounts Lessee right-of-use assets and liabilities [Table Text Block] Lessee right-of-use assets and liabilities [Table Text Block] Lessee right-of-use assets and liabilities [Table Text Block] Operating lease terms and discount rates [Table Text Block] Operating lease terms and discount rates [Table Text Block] Operating lease terms and discount rates [Table Text Block] Lessee operating and financing lease liability maturities [Table Text Block] Lessee operating and financing lease liability maturities [Table Text Block] Lessee operating and financing lease liability maturities [Table Text Block] Lease, Cost [Table Text Block] Lease, Cost [Table Text Block] Investments and Related Matters Investments and Other Noncurrent Assets [Text Block] Basis of Presentation and Summary of Significant Accounting Policies Organization, Consolidation and Presentation of Financial Statements Disclosure and Significant Accounting Policies [Text Block] Other Income and Expenses [Abstract] Schedule of Other Nonoperating Income (Expense) [Table Text Block] Schedule of Other Nonoperating Income (Expense) [Table Text Block] Income Statement [Abstract] Total Revenues Total Expenses (Loss) income from continuing operations before income tax benefit (Loss) income from continuing operations Income (loss) from discontinued operations 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 Income (Loss) Attributable to Parent Net (loss) income attributable to Icahn Enterprises allocated to: Net Income (Loss) Attributable to Parent [Abstract] Continuing operations Discontinued operations Limited partners Net Income (Loss) Allocated to Limited Partners General partner Net Income (Loss) Allocated to General Partners Cash distributions declared per LP unit Distributions Per Limited Partnership Unit Outstanding, Basic Net income per LP unit Schedule of Earnings Per Share, Basic and Diluted [Table Text Block] Other Income, Net Other Income and Other Expense Disclosure [Text Block] Schedule of Long-term Debt Instruments Schedule of Long-term Debt Instruments [Table Text Block] Due from brokers Due from Correspondent Brokers Goodwill Other assets Other Assets Total Assets Accounts payable Accounts Payable Accrued expenses and other liabilities Accrued Liabilities Deferred tax liability Deferred Tax Liabilities, Net Unrealized loss on derivative contracts Due to brokers Due to Correspondent Brokers Total liabilities Commitments and contingencies (Note 17) Commitments and Contingencies Equity: Stockholders' Equity, Including Portion Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest [Abstract] Limited partners: Depositary units: 207,489,066 units issued and outstanding at September 30, 2019 and 191,366,097 units issued and outstanding at December 31, 2018 Limited Partners' Capital Account General partner General Partners' Capital Account Equity attributable to Icahn Enterprises Total equity Total Liabilities and Equity Segment Reporting Segment Reporting Disclosure [Text Block] Assets measured at fair value on a recurring basis Schedule of Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring Basis [Table Text Block] Assets measured at fair value on a recurring basis for which we use Level 3 inputs to determine fair value Fair Value, Assets Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation [Table Text Block] Other Income and Expense, Net [Table] Other Income and Expense, Net [Table] Other Income and Expense, Net [Table] Component of Other (Loss) Income, Net [Axis] Component of Other Income (Loss), Net [Axis] Component of Other Income (Loss), net [Axis] Component of Other (Loss) Income, Net, Name [Domain] Component of Other Income (Loss), Net Name [Domain] Component of Other Income (Loss), Net Name [Domain] Equity earnings from non-consolidated affiliates Income (loss) from non-consolidated affiliates [Member] Income (loss) from non-consolidated affiliates [Member] Foreign currency transaction loss Foreign Currency Gain (Loss) [Member] Non-service pension and other post-retirement benefits expense Non service pension and other post-retirement benefits expense [Member] Non service pension and other post-retirement benefits expense Gain on extinguishment of debt Loss on Debt Extinguishment [Member] Loss on Debt Extinguishment [Member] Other Other Income (Loss) Not Specified [Member] Other Income (Loss) not otherwise specified in the disclosure [Member] Other Income and Expense, Net [Line Items] Other Income and Expense, Net [Line Items] [Line Items] for Other Income and Expense, Net [Table] Supplemental Cash Flow Information Cash Flow, Supplemental Disclosures [Text Block] Loss Contingencies [Table] Loss Contingencies [Table] Starfire Holding Corporation Starfire Holding Corporation [Member] Starfire Holding Corporation [Member] Loss Contingencies [Line Items] Loss Contingencies [Line Items] Accrued environmental liabilities Accrual for Environmental Loss Contingencies RINs costs Cost of RINs Expenses incurred to purchase additional rewnewable identification numbers Affiliate ownership in parent company general partner Affiliate ownership in parent company general partner Affiliate ownership in parent company general partner Affiliate ownership interest Defined benefit plan underfunded amount Defined Benefit Plan, Funded (Unfunded) Status of Plan Ownership percentage by Mr. Icahn Ownership Percentage by Principal Owner Ownership percentage by principal owner in related party Pension funding indemnity agreement with subsidiary Subsidiary Indemnity Agreement, Pension Funding Contingencies As A Result of Being In The Controlled Group, Distribution Limitation, Net Worth Floor Subsidiary Indemnity Agreement, Pension Funding Contingencies As A Result of Being In The Controlled Group, Distribution Limitation, Net Worth Floor Schedule of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) [Table Text Block] Schedule of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) [Table Text Block] Subsequent Event [Table] Subsequent Event [Table] Subsequent Event Type [Axis] Subsequent Event Type [Axis] Subsequent Event Type [Domain] Subsequent Event Type [Domain] Subsequent event Subsequent Event [Member] Subsequent Event [Line Items] Subsequent Event [Line Items] Distribution declared per LP unit Distribution Made to Limited Partner, Distributions Declared, Per Unit