Goodwill and Intangible Assets Disclosure [Abstract] Goodwill and Intangible Assets, Net Goodwill and Intangible Assets Disclosure [Text Block] Fair Value Disclosures [Abstract] Fair Value Measurements Fair Value Disclosures [Text Block] Segment Reporting [Abstract] Disaggregation of Revenue [Table] Disaggregation of Revenue [Table] Segments [Axis] Segments [Axis] Segment [Domain] Segments [Domain] Automotive Segment Automotive Segment [Member] Automotive Segment [Member] Energy Segment Energy Segment [Member] Energy Segment [Member] Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items] Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items] 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] Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) [Abstract] Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) [Abstract] Accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) Schedule of changes in accumulated other comprehensive income [Table Text Block] Schedule of changes in accumulated other comprehensive income [Table Text Block] Subsequent Events [Abstract] Subsequent Event [Table] Subsequent Event [Table] Legal Entity [Axis] Legal Entity [Axis] Entity [Domain] Entity [Domain] Federal-Mogul Federal-Mogul [Member] Federal-Mogul [Member] Tropicana Tropicana [Member] Tropicana [Member] 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 Aggregate consideration for business to be disposed of Aggregate consideration for business to be disposed of Aggregate consideration for business to be disposed of Fair Value, Assets Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation [Table] Measurement Frequency [Axis] Measurement Frequency [Axis] Fair Value, Measurement Frequency [Domain] Fair Value, Measurement Frequency [Domain] Recurring measurement Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member] Fair Value, Hierarchy [Axis] Fair Value, Hierarchy [Axis] Fair Value, Measurements, Fair Value Hierarchy [Domain] Fair Value Hierarchy [Domain] Level 3 Fair Value, Inputs, Level 3 [Member] Fair Value, Assets Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation [Line Items] Fair Value, Assets Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation, [Roll Forward] Fair Value, Assets Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation, Calculation [Roll Forward] Fair value of assets measured at fair value on a recurring basis Fair Value, Measurement with Unobservable Inputs Reconciliation, Recurring Basis, Asset Value Fair value, measurement with unobservable inputs reconciliation, recurring basis, assets, unrealized gain (loss) Fair value, measurement with unobservable inputs reconciliation, recurring basis, assets, unrealized gain (loss) Fair value, measurement with unobservable inputs reconciliation, recurring basis, assets, unrealized gain (loss) Transfers in Fair Value, Measurement with Unobservable Inputs Reconciliation, Recurring Basis, Asset Transfers Into Level 3 Basis of Presentation and Summary of Significant Accounting Policies [Abstract] Basis of Presentation and Summary of Significant Accounting Policies [Abstract] Organization, Consolidation and Presentation of Financial Statements [Table] Organization, Consolidation and Presentation of Financial Statements [Table] Organization, Consolidation and Presentation of Financial Statements [Table] Railcar Segment Railcar Segment [Member] Railcar Segment [Member] Gaming Segment Gaming Segment [Member] Gaming Segment [Member] Organization, Consolidation and Presentation of Financial Statements [Line Items] Organization, Consolidation and Presentation of Financial Statements [Line Items] [Line Items] for Organization, Consolidation and Presentation of Financial Statements [Table] Consolidation, Policy Consolidation, Policy [Policy Text Block] Fair Value of Financial Instruments, Policy Fair Value of Financial Instruments, Policy [Policy Text Block] Revenue Recognition, Policy Revenue Recognition, Policy [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] Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities Disclosure [Abstract] Derivative [Table] 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] 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 Inventory, Net [Abstract] Inventories, Net Inventory Disclosure [Text Block] Accumulated Other Comprehensive Loss Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) [Text Block] Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) [Text Block] Derivative [Table] Commodity contracts not considered probable of settlement [Member] Commodity contracts not considered probable of settlement [Member] Commodity contracts not considered probable of settlement Investment Segment Investment Segment [Member] Investment Segment [Member] Derivative [Line Items] Derivative [Line Items] Debt designated as net investment in foreign operations Derivative Instruments in Hedges, Net Investment in Foreign Operations, Liabilities, Fair Value 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 Description of Business [Abstract] Description of Business [Abstract] Description of Business [Table] Description of Business [Table] Description of Business Food Packaging Segment Food Packaging Segment [Member] Food Packaging Segment [Member] Members or Partners [Axis] Members or Partners [Axis] Members or Partners, including managing members or members or general partners or limited partners [Axis] Partner Name [Domain] Partner Name [Domain] Partner Name [Domain] Icahn Enterprises G.P. Icahn Enterprises G.P. [Member] Icahn Enterprises G.P. [Member] Mr. Icahn and affiliates Principal Owners and Affiliates [Member] Mr. Icahn and certain other entities beneficially owned by Mr. Icahn Icahn Enterprises Holdings Icahn Enterprises Holdings [Member] Icahn Enterprises Holdings [Member] Investment Funds Investment Funds [Member] The Onshore Fund (Icahn Partners LP) and the Offshore Master Funds are collectively referred to as the “Investment Funds". The “Offshore Master Funds” consist of (i) Icahn Partners Master Fund LP, or Master Fund I, (ii) Icahn Partners Master Fund II LP, or Master Fund II and (iii) Icahn Partners Master Fund III LP, or Master Fund III. CVR Refining CVR Refining, LP [Member] CVR Refining, LP [Member] CVR Partners CVR Partners, LP [Member] CVR Partners, LP [Member] CVR Energy CVR Energy, Inc. [Member] CVR Energy, Inc. [Member] ARI ARI [Member] ARI [Member] Ferrous Resources Ferrous Resources [Member] Ferrous Resources [Member] Viskase Viskase [Member] Viskase [Member] Description of Business [Line Items] Description of Business [Line Items] [Line Items] for Description of Business Percentage of equity ownership in operating subsidiary Subsidiary of Limited Liability Company or Limited Partnership, Ownership Interest Proceeds From Rights Offering Proceeds From Rights Offering Proceeds From Rights Offering Payments to acquire additional interest in subsidiaries Payments to Acquire Additional Interest in Subsidiaries General partner ownership percentage in Icahn Enterprises Limited Liability Company (LLC) or Limited Partnership (LP), Managing Member or General Partner, Ownership Interest General partner ownership interest in Icahn Enterprises Holdings Subsidiary of Limited Liability Company (LLC) or Limited Partnership (LP), Managing Member or General Partner, Ownership Interest Subsidiary of Limited Liability Company (LLC) or Limited Partnership (LP), Managing Member or General Partner, Ownership Interest Aggregate general partner ownership interest of parent and operating subsidiary Limited Liability Company (LLC) or Limited Partnership (LP), Managing Member or General Partner, Aggregate Ownership interest of Parent and Holding Company Subsidiaries Limited Liability Company (LLC) or Limited Partnership (LP), Managing Member or General Partner, Aggregate Ownership interest of Parent and Holding Company Subsidiaries Affiliate ownership interest in Icahn Enterprises Limited Liability Company 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. Payments to Acquire Interest in Subsidiaries and Affiliates Payments to Acquire Interest in Subsidiaries and Affiliates Supplemental Cash Flow Information [Abstract] Cash payments for interest, net of amounts capitalized Interest Paid, Net Net cash payments for income taxes Income Taxes Paid, Net Distribution payable to LP unit holders Distrubtion payable to LP unit holders Distrubtion payable to LP unit holders Acquisition of subsidiary common stock included in accrued expenses and other liabilities Noncash or Part Noncash Acquisition, Investments Acquired Capital expenditures included in accounts payable, accrued expenses and other liabilities Capital Expenditures Incurred but Not yet Paid Determination of when transfers between fair value levels occurs Fair Value Transfer, Policy [Policy Text Block] Debt Disclosure [Abstract] 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 6.375% senior unsecured notes due 2025 2025 Notes [Member] 2025 Notes Reporting Segments [Member] Reporting Segments [Member] Reporting Segments Holding Company Holding Company [Member] Holding Company [Member] Metals Segment Metals Segment [Member] Metals Segment [Member] Mining segment Mining segment [Member] Mining Segment [Member] Real Estate Segment Real Estate Segment [Member] Real Estate Segment [Member] Home Fashion Segment Home Fashion Segment [Member] Home Fashion Segment [Member] Debt Instrument [Line Items] Debt Instrument [Line Items] Debt Debt and Capital Lease Obligations Statement of Partners' Capital [Abstract] Statement [Table] Statement [Table] Partner Type [Axis] Partner Type [Axis] Partner Type of Partners' Capital Account, Name [Domain] Partner Type of Partners' Capital Account, Name [Domain] General partner General Partner [Member] Limited partners Limited Partner [Member] Total Partners' Equity Parent [Member] Non-controlling Interests Noncontrolling Interest [Member] Statement [Line Items] Statement [Line Items] Increase (Decrease) in Partners' Capital [Roll Forward] Increase (Decrease) in Partners' Capital [Roll Forward] Equity Stockholders' Equity, Including Portion Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest Net income Net Income (Loss), Including Portion Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest Other comprehensive income Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax Partnership distributions Partners' Capital Account, Distributions Partnership contributions Partners' Capital Account, Contributions Investment segment contributions Investment segment contributions Investment segment contributions Dividends and distributions to non-controlling interests in subsidiaries Payments to Noncontrolling Interests 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 Equity Assets measured at fair value on a recurring basis Schedule of Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring Basis [Table Text Block] Assets measured at fair value on a recurring basis for which we use Level 3 inputs to determine fair value Fair Value, Assets Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation [Table Text Block] Statement of Comprehensive Income [Abstract] Net income (loss) Other comprehensive income (loss), net of tax: Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax [Abstract] Post-employment benefits Other Comprehensive (Income) Loss, Defined Benefit Plan, after Reclassification Adjustment, after Tax Hedge instruments Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Derivatives Qualifying as Hedges, Net of Tax Translation adjustments and other Other Comprehensive Income - Translation Adjustments and Other Changes in Other Comprehensive Income Principally includes change in the balance sheet adjustment that results from the process of translating subsidiary financial statements and foreign equity investments into functional currency of the reporting entity for the period being reported, net of tax. If an entity's functional currency is a foreign currency, translation adjustments result from the process of translating that entity's financial statements into the reporting currency. Includes gain (loss) on foreign currency forward exchange contracts. Includes foreign currency transactions designated as hedges of net investment in a foreign entity and intercompany foreign currency transactions that are of a long-term nature, when the entities to the transaction are consolidated, combined, or accounted for by the equity method in the reporting enterprise's financial statements. Includes the gain (loss) on a derivative instrument or nonderivative financial instrument that may give rise to a foreign currency transaction gain (loss) and that have been designated and have qualified as hedging instruments for hedges of the foreign currency exposure of a net investment in a foreign operation. Also includes other changes in other comprehensive income not otherwise identified. Other comprehensive income, net of tax Comprehensive income (loss) Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax, Including Portion Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest Less: Comprehensive income (loss) attributable to non-controlling interests Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax, Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest Comprehensive income attributable to Icahn Enterprises Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax, Attributable to Parent Comprehensive income attributable to Icahn Enterprises allocable to: Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax, Attributable to Parent [Abstract] Segment Reporting Segment Reporting Disclosure [Text Block] Subsequent Events Subsequent Events [Text Block] Raw materials Inventory, Raw Materials, Net of Reserves Work in process Inventory, Work in Process, Net of Reserves Finished goods Inventory, Finished Goods, Net of Reserves Inventory, net Inventory, Net Document and Entity Information [Abstract] Document and Entity Information [Abstract] Entities [Table] Entities [Table] Entity Information [Line Items] Entity Information [Line Items] Entity Registrant Name Entity Registrant Name Trading Symbol Trading Symbol Entity Central Index Key Entity Central Index Key Current Fiscal Year End Date Current Fiscal Year End Date Entity Filer Category Entity Filer Category Document Type Document Type Document Period End Date Document Period End Date Document Fiscal Year Focus Document Fiscal Year Focus Document Fiscal Period Focus Document Fiscal Period Focus Amendment Flag Amendment Flag Entity Common Stock, Shares Outstanding Entity Common Stock, Shares Outstanding Entity Well-known Seasoned Issuer Entity Well-known Seasoned Issuer Entity Current Reporting Status Entity Current Reporting Status AOCI, Post-employment benefits, net of tax Accumulated Other Comprehensive (Income) Loss, Defined Benefit Plan, after Tax AOCI, Hedge instruments, net of tax Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Cumulative Changes in Net Gain (Loss) from Cash Flow Hedges, Effect Net of Tax AOCI, Translation adjustments and other, net of tax Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Translation adjustments and other, net of tax Accumulated adjustment, net of tax, that results from the process of translating subsidiary financial statements and foreign equity investments into the reporting currency from the functional currency of the reporting entity, net of reclassification of realized foreign currency translation gains or losses. Also includes other immaterial balances. Accumulated other comprehensive loss, net of tax Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax Other Comprehensive (Income) Loss, Defined Benefit Plan, before Reclassification Adjustment, after Tax Other Comprehensive (Income) Loss, Defined Benefit Plan, before Reclassification Adjustment, after Tax Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Unrealized Gain (Loss) on Derivatives Arising During Period, Net of Tax Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Unrealized Gain (Loss) on Derivatives Arising During Period, Net of Tax Other comprehensive income, translation adjustments and other, before reclassificaitons, net of tax Other comprehensive income, translation adjustments and other, before reclassificaitons, net of tax Other comprehensive income, translation adjustments and other, before reclassificaitons, net of tax Other comprehensive income, before reclassifications to income, net of tax Other comprehensive income, before reclassifications to income Other comprehensive income, before reclassifications to income Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Defined Benefit Plan, Gain (Loss), Reclassification Adjustment from AOCI, after Tax Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Defined Benefit Plan, Gain (Loss), Reclassification Adjustment from AOCI, after Tax Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss) Reclassified from Accumulated OCI into Income, Effective Portion, Net 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, net of tax Other comprehensive income, portion representing reclassificaitons to earnings Other comprehensive income, portion representing reclassificaitons to earnings Deferred Revenue Arrangement Type [Axis] Deferred Revenue Arrangement Type [Axis] Deferred Revenue [Domain] Deferred Revenue [Domain] Product returns Product returns [Member] Product returns [Member] Extended warranties Extended warranties [Member] Extended warranties [Member] Initial Application Period Cumulative Effect Transition [Axis] Initial Application Period Cumulative Effect Transition [Axis] Initial Application Period Cumulative Effect Transition [Domain] Initial Application Period Cumulative Effect Transition [Domain] Difference between Revenue Guidance in Effect before and after Topic 606 Difference between Revenue Guidance in Effect before and after Topic 606 [Member] Statement of cash flow location [Axis] Statement of cash flow location [Axis] Statement of cash flow location [Axis] Statement of cash flow location [Domain] Statement of cash flow location [Domain] [Domain] for Statement of cash flow location [Axis] Net cash provided by operating activities [Member] Net cash provided by operating activities [Member] Net cash provided by operating activities [Member] Cost of Sales [Member] Cost of Sales [Member] Selling, General and Administrative Expenses [Member] Selling, General and Administrative Expenses [Member] Other Income [Member] Other Income [Member] Balance Sheet Location [Axis] Balance Sheet Location [Axis] Balance Sheet Location [Domain] Balance Sheet Location [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] Property, plant and equipment, net Property, Plant and Equipment [Member] Inventories, net Inventories [Member] Intangible assets, net Intangible assets, net [Member] Intangible assets, net [Member] Other assets Other Assets [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] Debt Debt [Member] Restricted Cash and Cash Equivalents [Axis] Restricted Cash and Cash Equivalents [Axis] Cash and Cash Equivalents [Domain] Cash and Cash Equivalents [Domain] Restricted cash Restricted cash [Member] Restricted cash Prior Period Reclassification Adjustment Prior Period Reclassification Adjustment Inventories, net 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 Restricted cash Restricted Cash and Cash Equivalents Gross amount of transferred receivables under factoring arrangements 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 Deferred Revenue Deferred Revenue Deferred Revenue, Revenue Recognized Deferred Revenue, Revenue Recognized Deferred Revenue, Noncurrent Deferred Revenue, Noncurrent Revenue, Remaining Performance Obligation Revenue, Remaining Performance Obligation Accrued expenses and other liabilities Accrued Liabilities Deferred tax liability Deferred Tax Liabilities, Net Net sales Sales Revenue, Goods, Net Cost of goods sold Cost of Goods Sold Accounts receivable, net Accounts Receivable, Net Total assets Assets Total liabilities Liabilities Revenue, current portion of remaining performance obligation Revenue, current portion of remaining performance obligation Revenue, current portion of remaining performance obligation Revenue, non-current portion of remaining performance obligation Revenue, non-current portion of remaining performance obligation Revenue, non-current portion of remaining performance obligation Amortization expense associated with definite-lived intangible assets Amortization of Intangible Assets Retirement Benefits [Abstract] Pensions, Other Post-employment Benefits and Employee Benefit Plans Pension and Other Postretirement Benefits Disclosure [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 Commitments and Contingencies Disclosure [Abstract] Commitments and Contingencies Commitments and Contingencies Disclosure [Text Block] Schedule of Investments [Abstract] Schedule of Investments [Table] Schedule of Investments [Table] Investment, Name [Axis] Investment, Name [Axis] Investment, Name [Domain] Investment, Name [Domain] Hertz Hertz [Member] Hertz Herbalife Herbalife [Member] Herbalife [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] Industrial Industrial [Member] Industrial [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] Schedule of Investments [Line Items] Schedule of Investments [Line Items] Investments Investments Securities sold, not yet purchased, at fair value Financial Instruments Sold, Not yet Purchased, at Fair Value Portion of trading gains (loss) that relates to trading securities still held at balance sheet date Trading Securities, Change in Unrealized Holding Gain (Loss) Ownership percentage in investment measured at fair value that would otherwise be accounted for under equity method Equity Method Investment, Ownership Percentage Unrealized gain (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 Cash Flow, Supplemental Disclosures [Text Block] Other (Loss) Income, Net [Abstract] Other (Loss) Income, Net [Abstract] Other income (loss), net 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] Fair Values Derivatives, Balance Sheet Location, by Derivative Contract Type [Table] Fair Values Derivatives, Balance Sheet Location, by Derivative Contract Type [Table] 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 Derivative contracts, at fair value (asset) Derivative Asset Derivative contracts at fair value (liability) Derivative Liability Collateral for derivative positions Collateral Already Posted, Aggregate Fair Value Income Tax Disclosure [Abstract] Income Taxes Income Tax Disclosure [Text Block] Investments and Related Matters [Abstract] Investments and Related Matters [Abstract] Other Segments Other Segments [Member] Equity method investments Equity Method Investments [Member] Other investments (measured at fair value) Other Investments [Member] Other Income (Loss), Net Other Income and Other Expense Disclosure [Text Block] Defined Benefit Plans and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans Disclosures [Table] Defined Benefit Plans and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans Disclosures [Table] Retirement Plan Type [Axis] Retirement Plan Type [Axis] Retirement Plan Type [Domain] Retirement Plan Type [Domain] Pension Benefits Pension Plan [Member] Other Post-Retirement Benefits Other Postretirement Benefits 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 (Loss) on Plan Assets Amortization of actuarial losses Defined Benefit Plan, Amortization of Gain (Loss) Amortization of prior service credit Defined Benefit Plan, Amortization of Prior Service Cost (Credit) Settlement gain Defined Benefit Plan, Net Periodic Benefit Cost (Credit), Gain (Loss) Due to Settlement Net periodic benefit cost Defined Benefit Plan, Net Periodic Benefit Cost (Credit) Related Party Transactions [Abstract] Related Party Transactions Related Party Transactions Disclosure [Text Block] Accumulated other comprehensive loss Schedule of Condensed Financial Statements [Table] Condensed Financial Statements [Table] Condensed Financial Statements, Captions [Line Items] Condensed Financial Statements, Captions [Line Items] ASSETS Assets [Abstract] Cash and cash equivalents Cash and Cash Equivalents, at Carrying Value Cash held at consolidated affiliated partnerships and restricted cash 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 LIABILITIES AND EQUITY Liabilities and Equity [Abstract] Accounts payable, accrued expenses and other liabilities Accounts Payable and Accrued Liabilities Due to brokers Due to Correspondent Brokers Post-retirement benefit liability Postemployment Benefits Liability 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 Income tax expense Income Tax Expense (Benefit) Income (loss) before income tax expense Income (Loss) from Continuing Operations before Income Taxes, Noncontrolling Interest 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 Inventories, net Schedule of Inventory, Current [Table Text Block] Energy [Axis] Energy [Axis] Energy [Domain] Energy [Domain] Variable Rate [Axis] Variable Rate [Axis] Variable Rate [Domain] Variable Rate [Domain] Position [Axis] Position [Axis] Position [Domain] Position [Domain] Range [Axis] Range [Axis] Range [Domain] Range [Domain] Fair value and income recognized for derivatives not designated as hedging instruments Schedule of Other Derivatives Not Designated as Hedging Instruments, Statements of Financial Performance and Financial Position, Location [Table Text Block] Notional exposure of derivative instruments Schedule of Notional Amounts of Outstanding Derivative Positions [Table Text Block] Loss Contingencies [Table] Loss Contingencies [Table] Related Party [Axis] Related Party [Axis] Related Party [Domain] Related Party [Domain] 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 Possible material additional losses, above and beyond best estimate of required remediation costs Site Contingency, Loss Exposure in Excess of Accrual, Best Estimate Environmental remediation expense Environmental Remediation Expense RINs costs Cost of RINs Expenses incurred to purchase additional rewnewable identification numbers Biofuel blending obligation Biofuel blending obligation Biofuel blending obligation RINs asset RINs asset RINs asset Railcar loss contingency accrual Loss Contingency Accrual 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 Segment Reporting Information [Line Items] Segment Reporting Information [Line Items] Revenues: Revenues [Abstract] Other revenues from operations Other Revenue, Net Net gain from investment activities Gain (Loss) on Investments, Excluding Other than Temporary Impairments Interest and dividend income Interest and Dividend Income, Operating Other income (loss), net Other Nonoperating Income (Expense) Total Revenues Revenues Expenses: Costs and Expenses [Abstract] Other expenses from operations Other Cost and Expense, Operating Selling, general and administrative Selling, General and Administrative Expense Restructuring, net Restructuring Charges Impairment Asset Impairment Charges Interest expense Interest Expense Total Expenses Costs and Expenses Income (loss) before income tax (expense) benefit Income tax expense Less: net income (loss) attributable to non-controlling interests Net Income (Loss) Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest Net income (loss) attributable to Icahn Enterprises Net Income (Loss) Attributable to Parent Supplemental information: Supplemental Income Statement Elements [Abstract] Capital expenditures Payments to Acquire Property, Plant, and Equipment Depreciation and amortization(1) Depreciation, Depletion and Amortization Amortization included in interest expense Amortization of Debt Issuance Costs and Discounts Schedule of Long-term Debt Instruments Schedule of Long-term Debt Instruments [Table Text Block] Investments and Related Matters Investments and Other Noncurrent Assets [Text Block] Supplemental cash flow information Schedule of Cash Flow, Supplemental Disclosures [Table Text Block] Net periodic benefit costs Schedule of Net Benefit Costs [Table Text Block] Determination of what constitutes a segment Segment Reporting, Policy [Policy 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] 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] Developed technology Developed Technology Rights [Member] In-place leases Leases, Acquired-in-Place [Member] Gasification technology license Gasification Technology [Member] Gasification Technology [Member] Other Unclassified Indefinite-lived Intangible Assets [Member] Indefinite-lived Intangible Assets by Major Class [Axis] Indefinite-lived Intangible Assets [Axis] Indefinite-lived intangible assets: Indefinite-lived Intangible Assets, Major Class Name [Domain] Trademarks and brand names Trademarks and Trade Names [Member] Gaming licenses Gaming license [Member] Gaming license Intangible Assets, [Line Items] Finite-Lived and Infinite-Lived Intangible Assets, by Segment [Line Items] Finite-Lived and Infinite-Lived Intangible Assets, by Segment [Line Items] Definite-lived intangible assets: [Abstract] Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Gross and Net [Abstract] Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Gross and Net [Abstract] 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 Indefinite-lived intangible assets: [Abstract] Indefinite-Lived Intangible Assets, Gross and Net [Abstract] Indefinite-Lived Intangible Assets, Gross and Net [Abstract] Net carrying amount of indefinite-lived intangible assets Indefinite-Lived Intangible Assets (Excluding Goodwill) Intangible assets, net Intangible Assets, Net (Excluding Goodwill) Credit Default Swap [Member] 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 Notional value of interest rate swap agreements Derivative, Notional Amount 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] Earnings Per Unit [Abstract] Net Income Per LP Unit Earnings Per Share [Text Block] Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows [Abstract] Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows [Abstract] Proceeds from subsidiary equity issuance Proceeds from subsidiary equity issuance Proceeds from subsidiary equity issuance Cash flows from operating activities: Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Operating Activities [Abstract] Adjustments to reconcile net income (loss) to net cash used in operating activities: Adjustments to Reconcile Net Income (Loss) to Cash Provided by (Used in) Operating Activities [Abstract] Net gain from securities transactions Gain (Loss) on Investments Purchases of securities Payments to Acquire Marketable Securities Proceeds from sales of securities Proceeds from Sale and Maturity of Marketable Securities Purchases to cover securities sold, not yet purchased Purchases to Cover Securities Sold Not Yet Purchased Purchases to cover securities sold not yet purchased Proceeds from securities sold, not yet purchased Investment Sold, Not yet Purchased, Sale Proceeds Changes in receivables and payables relating to securities transactions Increase (Decrease) in Broker-Dealer Related Receivables (Payables), Net Depreciation and amortization Depreciation and amortization, including non-cash interest expense The aggregate expense recognized in the current period that allocates the cost of tangible assets, intangible assets, or depleting assets to periods that benefit from use of the assets as well as the non-cash portion of interest expense as a result of amortizing debt discount, premiums and financing costs. Equity earnings from non-consolidated affiliates Equity earnings from non-consolidated affiliates Equity earnings from non-consolidated affiliates Deferred taxes Increase (Decrease) in Deferred Income Taxes Other, net Other Operating Activities, Cash Flow Statement Changes in other operating assets and liabilities Increase (Decrease) in Other Operating Assets and Liabilities, Net Net cash used in operating activities Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Operating Activities Cash flows from investing activities: Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Investing Activities [Abstract] Capital expenditures Payments to Acquire Productive Assets Acquisition of businesses, net of cash acquired Payments to Acquire Businesses, Net of Cash Acquired Purchase of additional interests in consolidated subsidiaries Proceeds from disposition of assets Proceeds from Sales of Business, Affiliate and Productive Assets 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 contributions from non-controlling interests Proceeds from Investment segment contributions Proceeds from Investment segment contributions Partnership contributions Proceeds from Partnership Contribution 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 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 and restricted cash and restricted cash equivalents Effect of Exchange Rate on Cash and Cash Equivalents Add back decrease 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 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 Income Statement [Abstract] Net income (loss) from investment activities Total Revenues Total Expenses Income (loss) before income tax expense Net income (loss) Net income (loss) attributable to Icahn Enterprises Net income (loss) attributable to Icahn Enterprises allocable to: Net Income (Loss) Attributable to Parent [Abstract] Limited partners Net Income (Loss) Allocated to Limited Partners General partner Net Income (Loss) Allocated to General Partners Basic income (loss) per LP unit Net Income (Loss), Per Outstanding Limited Partnership Unit, Basic, Net of Tax [Abstract] Basic income (loss) per LP unit Net Income (Loss), Per Outstanding Limited Partnership Unit, Basic, Net of Tax Basic weighted average LP units outstanding Weighted Average Limited Partnership Units Outstanding, Basic Diluted income (loss) per LP unit Earnings Per Share, Diluted [Abstract] 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 Cash distributions declared per LP unit Distributions Per Limited Partnership Unit Outstanding, Basic Schedule of Related Party Transactions, by Related Party [Table] Schedule of Related Party Transactions, by Related Party [Table] Consolidated VIE Consolidated VIE [Member] Consolidated VIE Hertz Equity Method Investee [Member] ACF ACF [Member] ACF [Member] Insight Portfolio Group LLC Insight Portfolio Group LLC [Member] Insight Portfolio Group LLC [Member] Related Party 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] Investment balance in funds Investment balance in funds [Member] Investment balance in funds 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 Buying group operating expenses Operating Expense [Member] Related Party Transaction [Line Items] Related Party Transaction [Line Items] Related party transaction, balance Related party transaction, balance Related party transaction, balance Percentage fair value of investments in Funds that is attributable to Mr. Icahn Percentage fair value of investments in Funds that is attributable to Mr. Icahn Percentage fair value of investments in Funds that is attributable to Mr. Icahn Amount of transaction with related party Related Party Transaction, Amounts of Transaction Debt Debt Disclosure [Text Block] Investment [Table Text Block] Investment [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 Revenue from contracts with customers [Abstract] Revenue from contracts with customers [Abstract] 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 parts to original equipment manufacturers and servicers Automotive parts to original equipment manufacturers and servicers [Member] Automotive parts to original equipment manufacturers and servicers [Member] Aftermarket automotive parts and tires Aftermarket automotive parts and tires [Member] Aftermarket automotive parts and tires [Member] Automotive services labor Automotive services labor [Member] Automotive services labor [Member] Other net sales Other net sales [Member] Other net sales [Member] Net sales Sales Revenue, Net [Member] Other revenues from operations Sales Revenue, Services, Net [Member] Icahn Automotive Group Icahn Automotive Group [Member] Icahn Automotive Group Revenue from contracts with customers Revenue from Contract with Customer, Excluding Assessed Tax Derivative Financial Instruments Financial Instruments Disclosure [Text Block] Gain (loss) recognized in AOCI Gain (Loss) on Derivative Used in Net Investment Hedge, Net of Tax Schedule Of Earnings Per LP Unit [Table] Schedule Of Earnings Per LP Unit [Table] Schedule Of Earnings Per LP Unit [Table] Earnings Per LP Unit [Line Items] Earnings Per LP Unit [Line Items] Earnings Per LP Unit [Line Items] Net income (loss) attributable to Icahn Enterprises allocable to limited partners (98.01% allocation) Units issued in connection with rights offering (value) Stock Issued During Period, Value, New Issues Units distributed to LP unitholders Distribution Made to Limited Partner, Unit Distribution 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 Due from brokers Due from Correspondent Brokers Goodwill Intangible assets, net Other assets Other Assets Total Assets Accounts payable Accounts Payable Derivative contracts at fair value (liability) Total liabilities Commitments and contingencies (Note 16) Commitments and Contingencies Equity: Stockholders' Equity, Including Portion Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest [Abstract] Limited partners: Depositary units: 173,579,378 units issued and outstanding at March 31, 2018 and 173,564,307 units issued and outstanding at December 31, 2017 Limited Partners' Capital Account General partner General Partners' Capital Account Equity attributable to Icahn Enterprises Total equity Total Liabilities and Equity Fair Value Measurements, Recurring and Nonrecurring [Table] Fair Value Measurements, Recurring and Nonrecurring [Table] Level 1 Fair Value, Inputs, Level 1 [Member] Level 2 Fair Value, Inputs, Level 2 [Member] Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items] Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items] Assets [Abstract] Investments Investments measured at fair value Investments measured at fair value Assets, Fair Value Disclosure Assets, Fair Value Disclosure Liabilities [Abstract] Liabilities [Abstract] Other liabilities Other Liabilities, Fair Value Disclosure Financial and Nonfinancial Liabilities, Fair Value Disclosure Financial and Nonfinancial Liabilities, Fair Value Disclosure Components of Other Income (Loss), Net [Table] Component of Other Income (Loss), Ne [Table] Component of Other Income (Loss), Net [Table] Component of Other (Loss) Income, Net [Axis] Component of Other Income (Loss), Net [Axis] Component of Other Income (Loss), net [Axis] Component of Other (Loss) Income, Net, Name [Domain] Component of Other Income (Loss), Net Name [Domain] Component of Other Income (Loss), Net Name [Domain] Realized and unrealized gain on derivatives, net (Note 6) Unrealized gain loss on derivatives [Member] Unrealized gain loss on derivatives Other derivative loss Other derivative gain [Member] Other derivative gain [Member] Loss on extinguishment of debt Loss on Debt Extinguishment [Member] Loss on Debt Extinguishment [Member] Equity earnings from non-consolidated affiliates Income (loss) from non-consolidated affiliates [Member] Income (loss) from non-consolidated affiliates [Member] Foreign currency transaction loss Foreign Currency Gain (Loss) [Member] Gain (loss) on disposition of assets, net Gain (loss) on dispositions of assets [Member] Gain (loss) on dispositions of assets Non-service pension and other post-retirement benefits expense Non service pension and other post-retirement benefits expense [Member] Non service pension and other post-retirement benefits expense Other Other Income (Loss) Not Specified [Member] Other Income (Loss) not otherwise specified in the disclosure [Member] Component of Other Income (Loss), Net [Line Items] Component of Other Income (Loss), Net [Line Items] Component of Other Income (Loss), Net [Line Items] Description of Business Organization, Consolidation and Presentation of Financial Statements Disclosure [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] Nonrecurring measurement Fair Value, Measurements, Nonrecurring [Member] Trading securities Trading Securities [Member] Fair Value, Instruments Classified in Shareholders' Equity Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation [Line Items] Fair Value, Instruments Classified in Shareholders' Equity Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation [Line Items] Impairment of PP&E Impairment of Long-Lived Assets Held-for-use Inventory Write-down Inventory Write-down Net income per LP unit Schedule of Earnings Per Share, Basic and Diluted [Table Text Block] Schedule of Variable Interest Entities [Table] Schedule of Variable Interest Entities [Table] Variable Interest Entity [Line Items] Variable Interest Entity [Line Items] Variable interest entities Schedule of Variable Interest Entities [Table Text Block]