Supplemental Cash Flow Information [Abstract] SUPPLEMENTAL CASH FLOW INFORMATION Cash Flow, Supplemental Disclosures [Text Block] Fair Value Disclosures [Abstract] FAIR VALUE MEASUREMENTS Fair Value Disclosures [Text Block] Segment Reporting [Abstract] SEGMENT INFORMATION Segment Reporting Disclosure [Text Block] Business Combinations [Abstract] Schedule of Business Acquisitions, by Acquisition [Table] Business Acquisition [Axis] Business Acquisition, Acquiree [Domain] Meraux Acquisition [Member] Meraux Acquisition [Member] Pembroke Acquisition [Member] Chevron's Pembroke refinery in Wales, UK, marketing and logistics in UK and Ireland. Acquisitions [Line Items] Business Acquisition [Line Items] Purchase Price Allocation Business Acquisition, Purchase Price Allocation [Abstract] Current assets, net of cash acquired Business Acquisition, Purchase Price Allocation, Current Assets Property, plant and equipment Business Acquisition, Purchase Price Allocation, Property, Plant and Equipment Intangible assets Business Acquisition, Purchase Price Allocation, Amortizable Intangible Assets Deferred charges and other assets, net Business Acquisition, Purchase Price Allocation, Other Noncurrent Assets Current liabilities, less current portion of debt and capital lease obligations Business Acquisition, Purchase Price Allocation, Current Liabilities, Current Liabilities Less Current Portion of Debt and Capital Lease Obligations The amount of acquisition cost of a business combination allocated to current liabilities of the acquired entity, excluding amounts allocated to the current portion of long-term debt and the current portion of capital lease obligations. Debt and capital leases assumed, including current portion Business Acquisition, Purchase Price Allocation, Debt And Capital Leases Assumed The amount of acquisition cost of a business combination allocated to debt and capital leases assumed from the acquired entity, including related current portion. Deferred income taxes Business Acquisition, Purchase Price Allocation, Deferred Tax Liabilities, Noncurrent Other long-term liabilities Business Acquisition, Purchase Price Allocation, Other Noncurrent Liabilities Noncontrolling interest Business Acquisition, Purchase Price Allocation, Noncontrolling Interest Purchase price, net of cash acquired Business Acquisition, Purchase Price Allocation, Assets Acquired (Liabilities Assumed), Net of Cash Acquired The total purchase price of the acquired entity, net of cash acquired. Acquisitions (Textual) Acquisitions (Textuals) [Abstract] Acquisitions Textuals Abstract. Effective date of acquisition Business Acquisition, Effective Date of Acquisition Purchase price of acquired entity Business Acquisition, Cost of Acquired Entity, Purchase Price Percentage of outstanding shares acquired Business Acquisition, Percentage of Voting Interests Acquired Purchase price of working capital Business Acquisition, Cost of Acquired Entity, Purchase Price of Working Capital The total cost of the working capital of acquired entities. Purchase price allocation adjustment increase to property, plant, and equipment Business Combination, Provisional Information, Initial Accounting Incomplete, Adjustment, Property, Plant, and Equipment Purchase price allocation adjustment increase to deferred tax liabilities Business Combination, Provisional Information, Initial Accounting Incomplete, Adjustment, Deferred Tax Liabilities This element represents the amount of any measurement period adjustment (as defined) realized during the reporting period to deferred tax liabilities acquired in connection with a business combination for which the initial accounting was incomplete. Purchase price alloation adjustment increase to other long-term liabilities Business Combination, Provisional Information, Initial Accounting Incomplete, Adjustment, Other Noncurrent Liabilities This element represents the amount of any measurement period adjustment (as defined) realized during the reporting period to other noncurrent liabilities acquired in connection with a business combination for which the initial accounting was incomplete. Depreciation expense true-up Depreciation, Depletion and Amortization Commitments and Contingencies Disclosure [Abstract] Loss Contingencies [Table] Impaired Long-Lived Assets Held and Used by Type [Axis] Impaired Long-Lived Assets Held and Used by Type [Axis] Impaired Long-Lived Assets Held and Used, Asset Name [Domain] Impaired Long-Lived Assets Held and Used, Asset Name [Domain] Refining Assets [Member] Refining Assets [Member] Refining Assets [Member] Aruba Refinery [Member] Aruba Refinery [Member] Refinery one member - Aruba Refinery [Member]. Income Tax Authority [Axis] Income Tax Authority [Axis] Income Tax Authority [Domain] Income Tax Authority [Domain] Foreign Country [Member] Foreign Tax Authority [Member] Loss Contingencies [Line Items] Commitments and Contingencies (Textual) Commitments And Contingencies Textuals [Abstract] Commitments And Contingencies (Textuals) [Abstract]. Number of employees notified of termination Restructuring and Related Cost, Expected Number of Positions Eliminated Termination date Restructuring and Related Activities, Completion Date Severance liability Restructuring Reserve Severance costs Business Exit Costs Property, Plant and Equipment Impairment or Disposal [Abstract] Schedule of Impaired Long-Lived Assets Held and Used [Table] Schedule of Impaired Long-Lived Assets Held and Used [Table] Inventory Related Assets [Member] Inventory Related Assets [Member] Inventory Related Assets [Member] Terminal Assets [Member] Terminal Assets [Member] Terminal Assets [Member] Retail [Member] Retail [Member] Retail. Construction in Progress [Member] Construction in Progress [Member] Impairments [Line Items] Impaired Long-Lived Assets Held and Used [Line Items] Impairments (Textual) Impairment or Disposal of Tangible Assets Disclosure [Abstract] Non-binding purchase offer Non-binding Purchase Offer Non-binding indication of a third party's interest to purchase an asset or group of assets. Long-lived assets, fair value Property, Plant, and Equipment, Fair Value Disclosure Long-lived assets, carrying value Property, Plant and Equipment, Net Asset impairment loss Asset Impairment Charges Earnings Per Share [Abstract] EARNINGS PER COMMON SHARE Earnings Per Share [Text Block] Defined Benefit Pension Plans and Defined Benefit Postretirement Plans Disclosure [Abstract] Schedule of Defined Benefit Plans Disclosures [Table] Defined Benefit Plans and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans [Axis] Defined Benefit Plans and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans [Domain] Pension Plans, Defined Benefit [Member] Other Postretirement Benefit Plans, Defined Benefit [Member] Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items] Components of net periodic benefit cost: Defined Benefit Plan, Net Periodic Benefit Cost [Abstract] Service cost Defined Benefit Plan, Service Cost Interest cost Defined Benefit Plan, Interest Cost Expected return on plan assets Defined Benefit Plan, Expected Return on Plan Assets Amortization of: Amortization [Abstract] Prior service cost (credit) Defined Benefit Plan, Amortization of Prior Service Cost (Credit) Net actuarial loss Defined Benefit Plan, Amortization of Gains (Losses) Net periodic benefit cost Defined Benefit Plan, Net Periodic Benefit Cost Employee Benefit Plans (Textual) Employee Benefit Plans Textuals Abstract Employee Benefit Plans. Contributions to pension plans Defined Benefit Plan, Contributions by Employer Inventory Disclosure [Abstract] Schedule of inventories Schedule of Inventory, Current [Table Text Block] COMMITMENTS AND CONTINGENCIES Commitments and Contingencies Disclosure [Text Block] Periodic benefit cost related to our defined benefit plans, net Schedule of Defined Benefit Plans Disclosures [Table Text Block] Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Table] Fair Value Measurements, Recurring and Nonrecurring [Table] Fair Value, Hierarchy [Axis] Fair Value, Measurements, Fair Value Hierarchy [Domain] Fair Value, Measurements, Fair Value Hierarchy [Domain] Fair Value, Inputs, Level 1 [Member] Fair Value, Inputs, Level 2 [Member] Fair Value, Inputs, Level 3 [Member] Netting [Member] Measurement Frequency [Axis] Fair Value, Measurement Frequency [Domain] Fair Value, Measurement Frequency [Domain] Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member] Fair Value, Measurements, Nonrecurring [Member] Fair Value, Measurements, Nonrecurring [Member] Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items] Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items] Assets: Assets, Fair Value Disclosure [Abstract] Commodity derivative contracts Derivative Assets Physical purchase contracts Price Risk Derivative Assets, at Fair Value Investments of certain benefit plans Defined Benefit Plan, Fair Value of Plan Assets Foreign currency contracts Foreign Currency Contract, Asset, Fair Value Disclosure Other investments Investments, Fair Value Disclosure Liabilities: Liabilities, Fair Value Disclosure [Abstract] Commodity derivative contracts Derivative Financial Instruments, Liabilities, Fair Value Disclosure Biofuels blending obligation Obligations, Fair Value Disclosure Foreign currency contracts Foreign Currency Contracts, Liability, Fair Value Disclosure Fair Value Measurements (Textual) Fair Value Measurements Textuals Abstract Fair Value Measurements Textuals. Cash collateral deposits with brokers Derivative, Collateral, Right to Reclaim Cash Fair value asset transfers from Level 1 to Level 2 Fair Value, Assets, Level 1 to Level 2 Transfers, Amount Fair value asset transfers from Level 2 to Level 1 Fair Value, Assets, Level 2 to Level 1 Transfers, Amount Basis of Presentation and Summary of Significant Accounting Policies [Abstract] Basis of Presentation and Summary of Significant Accounting Policies [Abstract] Statement [Table] Statement [Table] Statement, Scenario [Axis] Scenario [Axis] Scenario, Unspecified [Domain] Scenario, Unspecified [Domain] Statement [Line Items] Statement [Line Items] Entities [Table] Legal Entity [Axis] Legal Entity [Axis] Entity [Domain] Entity [Domain] Entity Information [Line Items] Entity Information [Line Items] Document and Entity Information Document and Entity Information [Abstract] Document And Entity Information Abstract. Entity Registrant Name Entity Registrant Name Entity Central Index Key Entity Central Index Key Document Type Document Type Document Period End Date Document Period End Date Amendment Flag Amendment Flag Document Fiscal Year Focus Document Fiscal Year Focus Document Fiscal Period Focus Document Fiscal Period Focus Current Fiscal Year End Date Current Fiscal Year End Date Entity Well-known Seasoned Issuer Entity Well-known Seasoned Issuer Entity Voluntary Filers Entity Voluntary Filers Entity Current Reporting Status Entity Current Reporting Status Entity Filer Category Entity Filer Category Entity Common Stock, Shares Outstanding Entity Common Stock, Shares Outstanding Debt Disclosure [Abstract] Line of Credit Facility [Table] Line of Credit Facility [Table] Range [Axis] Range [Domain] Maximum [Member] Long-term Debt, Type [Axis] Long-term Debt, Type [Domain] Long-term Debt, Type [Domain] Other Debt [Member] Other Debt [Member] Other debt. Lender Name [Axis] Line of Credit Facility, Lender [Domain] Line of Credit Facility, Lender [Domain] Committed [Member] Committed [Member] Committed [Member] U S Revolver [Member] U.S. Revolver [Member] U S Revolver Letter of Credit [Member] U.S. Revolver Letter of Credit [Member] Canadian Revolver [Member] Canadian Revolver [Member] Canadian Revolver Letter of Credit [Member] Canadian Revolver Letter of Credit [Member] Letter of Credit [Member] Letter of Credit [Member] Uncommitted [Member] Uncommitted [Member] Uncommitted [Member] Other Letter of Credit [Member] Other Letter of Credit Line of Credit Facility [Line Items] Line of Credit Facility [Line Items] Line of Credit Facility Line of Credit Facility [Abstract] Line of credit facility, maximum borrowing capacity Line of Credit Facility, Maximum Borrowing Capacity Line of credit facility, expiration date (month, year) Line of Credit Facility, Expiration Date (Month, Year) Reflects when the credit facility terminates, which is presented in month, year. Letters of credit outstanding Line of Credit Facility, Amount Outstanding Accounts Receivable Sales Facility Accounts Receivable Sales Facility [Abstract] Accounts receivable sales facility. Balance as of beginning of period Eligible Receivables Sold to Third Party Entities and Financial Institutions Receivables sold to the third-party entities and financial institutions. Proceeds from the sale of receivables Proceeds from Other Debt Repayments Repayments of Other Debt Balance as of end of period Credit Facilities (Textual) Credit Facility Abstract Credit Facility. Debt to capitalization ratios as per terms of revolver Debt To Capitalization Ratios As Per Terms Of Revolver Debt to capitalization ratios as per terms of revolver. Borrowings from long-term lines of credit Proceeds from Long-term Lines of Credit Repayments of long-term lines of credit Repayments of Long-term Lines of Credit Accounts Receivable Sales Facility (Textual) Accounts Receivable Sales Facility Textual [Abstract] Accounts Receivable Sales Facility Textual [Abstract] Maximum eligible trade receivables Accounts Receivable Sales Facility Maximum Borrowing Capacity Accounts Receivable Sales Facility Maximum Borrowing Capacity. Extended term of accounts receivable sales facility Extended Term Of Accounts Receivable Sales Facility Extended term of accounts receivable sales facility. Equity [Abstract] EQUITY Stockholders' Equity Note Disclosure [Text Block] Schedule of purchase price allocation Schedule of Purchase Price Allocation [Table Text Block] Schedule of Segment Reporting Information, by Segment [Table] Business Segments [Axis] Segment [Domain] Refining [Member] Refining. Ethanol [Member] Ethanol. Corporate [Member] Segment Reporting Information [Line Items] Segment information for our reportable segments Segment Reporting Information, Operating Income (Loss) [Abstract] Operating revenues from external customers Refining and Marketing Revenue Intersegment revenues Segment Reporting Information, Intersegment Revenue Operating income (loss) Operating Income (Loss) Total assets by reportable segment Reportable Segment Total Assets Abstract Reportable Segment Total Assets. Reportable segment assets Assets Schedule of earnings per common share, basic and diluted Schedule of Earnings Per Share, Basic and Diluted [Table Text Block] Potentially dilutive securities excluded from calculation of earnings per common share - assuming dilution Schedule of Antidilutive Securities Excluded from Computation of Earnings Per Share [Table Text Block] Equity Components [Axis] Equity Component [Domain] Common Stock [Member] Treasury Stock [Member] Treasury Stock [Member] Parent [Member] Noncontrolling Interest [Member] Reconciliation of the beginning and ending balances of the carrying amount of equity Stockholders' Equity Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest [Roll Forward] Balance as of beginning of period Stockholders' Equity, Including Portion Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest Net income (loss) Net Income (Loss), Including Portion Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest Dividends Dividends, Common Stock, Cash Stock-based compensation expense Adjustments to Additional Paid in Capital, Share-based Compensation, Requisite Service Period Recognition Tax deduction in excess of stock-based compensation expense Adjustment to Additional Paid in Capital, Income Tax Effect from Share-based Compensation, Net Transactions in connection with stock-based compensation plans: Stock Issued or Repurchased During Period, Value, Share-based Compensation [Abstract] Stock Issued or Repurchased During Period, Value, Share-based Compensation [Abstract] Stock issuances Stock Issued During Period, Value, Share-based Compensation, Gross Stock repurchases Treasury Stock, Value, Acquired, Cost Method Contributions from noncontrolling interest Noncontrolling Interest, Increase from Equity Issuance or Sale of Parent Equity Interest Recognition of noncontrolling interest in connection with Pembroke Acquisition Noncontrolling Interest, Increase from Business Combination Other comprehensive income (loss) Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax Balance as of end of period Share Activity Rollforward Increase (Decrease) in Stockholders' Equity [Roll Forward] Common stock, shares, beginning balance Common Stock, Shares, Outstanding Treasury stock, shares, beginning balance Treasury Stock, Shares Stock issuances, stock-based compensation Stock Issued During Period, Shares, Share-based Compensation, Net of Forfeitures Stock purchases, stock-based compensation Treasury Stock, Shares, Acquired Common stock, shares, ending balance Treasury Stock, shares, ending balance Class of Stock [Axis] Class of Stock [Axis] Class of Stock [Domain] Class of Stock [Domain] Valero Energy Corporation stockholders' equity: Stockholders' Equity Attributable to Parent [Abstract] Common stock, par value Common Stock, Par or Stated Value Per Share Common stock, shares authorized Common Stock, Shares Authorized Common stock, shares issued Common Stock, Shares, Issued Treasury stock, common shares Fair value of financial assets and liabilities measured on recurring basis Schedule of Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring Basis [Table Text Block] Reconciliation of the beginning and ending balances for fair value measurements developed using significant unobservable inputs Fair Value, Assets Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation [Table Text Block] Fair value of assets measured on a nonrecurring basis Fair Value Measurements, Nonrecurring [Table Text Block] Carrying amounts and estimated fair value of financial instruments Fair Value, by Balance Sheet Grouping [Table Text Block] Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities Disclosure [Abstract] Fair Values Derivatives, Balance Sheet Location, by Derivative Contract Type [Table] Compliance Programs [Axis] Compliance Programs [Axis] Compliance Programs [Axis] Compliance Programs, Type [Domain] Compliance Programs, Type [Domain] Compliance Programs, Type [Domain] Minimum Inventory [Member] Minimum Inventory [Member] Minimum Inventory [Member] Hedging Designation [Axis] Hedging Designation [Domain] Designated as Hedging Instrument [Member] Not Designated as Hedging Instrument [Member] Derivative Instrument Risk [Axis] Derivative Contract Type [Domain] Commodity Contract [Member] Future [Member] Future [Member] Swap [Member] Swap [Member] Commodity Option [Member] Forward Contracts [Member] Foreign Exchange Contract [Member] Foreign Exchange Contract [Member] Balance Sheet Location [Axis] Balance Sheet Location [Domain] Accrued Expenses [Member] Accrued Expenses [Member] Accrued Expenses Member. Trade Accounts Receivable [Member] Trade Accounts Receivable [Member] Inventories [Member] Inventory [Member] Inventory [Member] Prepaid Expenses and Other Current Assets [Member] Prepaid Expenses And Other Current Assets [Member] Prepaid Expenses And Other Current Assets Member. Derivatives, Fair Value [Line Items] Fair Values of Derivative Instruments Derivative Instrument Detail [Abstract] Derivative asset, fair value, gross asset Derivative Asset, Fair Value, Gross Asset Derivative liability, fair value, gross asset Derivative Liability, Fair Value, Gross Asset Total derivative assets, net Derivative Asset, Fair Value, Net Derivative asset, fair value, gross liability Derivative Asset, Fair Value, Gross Liability Derivative liability, fair value, gross liability Derivative Liability, Fair Value, Gross Liability Total derivative liabilities, net Derivative Liability, Fair Value, Net INVENTORIES Inventory Disclosure [Text Block] Outstanding letters of credit under committed lines of credit Schedule of Line of Credit Facilities [Table Text Block] Changes in accounts receivable sales facility Schedule of Changes in Accounts Receivable Sales Facility [Table Text Block] Tabular disclosure of the changes in carrying amount of the accounts receivable sales facility. Net income Other comprehensive income (loss): Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), before Tax [Abstract] Foreign currency translation adjustment Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Foreign Currency Transaction and Translation Gain (Loss), before Reclassification and Tax Pension and other postretirement benefits: Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Pension and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans, Adjustment, before Tax, [Abstract] (Gain) loss reclassified into income related to: Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Pension and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans, Adjustment, before Reclassification Adjustments and Tax [Abstract] Prior service credit Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Amortization, Pension and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans, Net Prior Service Cost Recognized in Net Periodic Benefit Cost, before Tax Net actuarial loss Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Reclassification, Pension and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans, Net Gain (Loss) Recognized in Net Periodic Benefit Cost, before Tax Net gain (loss) on pension and other postretirement benefits Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Pension and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans, Adjustment, before Tax Derivative instruments designated and qualifying as cash flow hedges: Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Derivatives Qualifying as Hedges, before Tax [Abstract] Net gain arising during the period Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Unrealized Gain (Loss) on Derivatives Arising During Period, before Tax Net gain reclassified into income Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Reclassification Adjustment on Derivatives Included in Net Income, before Tax Net gain (loss) on cash flow hedges Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Derivatives Qualifying as Hedges, before Tax Other comprehensive income (loss), before income tax expense (benefit) Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), before Tax Income tax expense (benefit) related to items of other comprehensive income (loss) Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Tax Other comprehensive income (loss) Comprehensive income Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax, Including Portion Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest Less: Comprehensive loss attributable to noncontrolling interest Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax, Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest Comprehensive income attributable to Valero Energy Corporation stockholders Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax, Attributable to Parent Volume of outstanding contracts in fair value hedges Volume Of Outstanding Contracts Fair Value Hedges Text Block Volume Of Outstanding Contracts Fair Value Hedges Text Block. Volume of outstanding contracts in cash flow hedges Volume Of Outstanding Contract Cash Flow Hedges [Table Text Block] Volume Of Outstanding Contract Cash Flow Hedges Table Text Block. Volume of outstanding contracts in economic hedges Volume Of Outstanding Contracts Economic Hedges Text Block Volume Of Outstanding Contracts Economic Hedges Text Block. Volume of outstanding contracts in trading activities Volume Of Outstanding Contracts Trading Activities Text Block Volume Of Outstanding Contracts Trading Activities Text Block. Fair value of derivative instruments Schedule of Derivative Instruments in Statement of Financial Position, Fair Value [Table Text Block] Effect of derivative instruments on income and OCI Schedule of Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss) in Statement of Financial Performance [Table Text Block] Schedule of changes in equity Schedule of Stockholders Equity [Table Text Block] Schedule of stock by class Schedule of Stock by Class [Table Text Block] BASIS OF PRESENTATION AND SUMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES Basis of Presentation and Significant Accounting Policies [Text Block] ACQUISITIONS Mergers, Acquisitions and Dispositions Disclosures [Text Block] Changes in current assets and current liabilities Schedule of Cash Flow, Supplemental Disclosures [Table Text Block] Cash flows related to interest and income taxes Cash Flows Related To Interest And Income Taxes Text Block Cash flows related to interest and income taxes. Basis of Presentation Basis of Accounting [Text Block] Use of Estimates Use of Estimates, Policy [Policy Text Block] Description of New Accounting Pronouncements Not yet Adopted Description of New Accounting Pronouncements Not yet Adopted [Text Block] Statement of Cash Flows [Abstract] Cash flows from operating activities: Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Operating Activities [Abstract] Adjustments to reconcile net income to net cash provided by operating activities: Adjustments to Reconcile Net Income (Loss) to Cash Provided by (Used in) Operating Activities [Abstract] Depreciation and amortization expense Depreciation, Amortization and Accretion, Net Asset impairment loss Impairment of Long-Lived Assets Held-for-use Noncash interest expense and other income, net Other Noncash Income (Expense) Stock-based compensation expense Share-based Compensation Deferred income tax expense Deferred Income Taxes and Tax Credits Changes in current assets and current liabilities Increase (Decrease) in Operating Capital Changes in deferred charges and credits and other operating activities, net Increase (Decrease) in Other Operating Assets and Liabilities, Net Net cash provided by operating activities Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Operating Activities Cash flows from investing activities: Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Investing Activities [Abstract] Capital expenditures Payments to Acquire Productive Assets Deferred turnaround and catalyst costs Payments for Capital Improvements Acquisition of Pembroke Refinery, net of cash acquired Payments to Acquire Businesses, Net of Cash Acquired Minor acquisitions Payments to Acquire Other Productive Assets Other investing activities, 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] Non-bank debt: Non bank debt [Abstract] Non-bank debt. Borrowings Proceeds from Issuance of Debt Repayments Repayments of Other Long-term Debt Bank credit agreements: Bank Credit Agreements [Abstract] -- None. No documentation exists for this element. -- Borrowings Repayments Accounts receivable sales program: Repayments Purchase of common stock for treasury Payments for Repurchase of Common Stock Proceeds from the exercise of stock options Proceeds from Issuance of Shares under Incentive and Share-based Compensation Plans, Including Stock Options Common stock dividends Payments of Ordinary Dividends, Common Stock Contributions from noncontrolling interest Proceeds from (Payments to) Noncontrolling Interests Other financing activities, net Proceeds from (Payments for) Other Financing Activities Net cash used in financing activities Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Financing Activities Effect of foreign exchange rate changes on cash Effect of Exchange Rate on Cash and Cash Equivalents Net increase (decrease) in cash and temporary cash investments Cash and Cash Equivalents, Period Increase (Decrease) Cash and temporary cash investments at beginning of period Cash and Cash Equivalents, at Carrying Value Cash and temporary cash investments at end of period EMPLOYEE BENEFIT PLANS Pension and Other Postretirement Benefits Disclosure [Text Block] Segment information for our reportable segments Schedule of Segment Reporting Information, by Segment [Table Text Block] IMPAIRMENTS Asset Impairment Charges [Text Block] Schedule of Inventories Inventory, Net [Abstract] Refinery feedstocks Energy Related Inventory, Crude Oil and Natural Gas Liquids Refined products and blendstocks Energy Related Inventory, Crude Oil, Products and Merchandise Ethanol feedstocks and products Ethanol Feedstocks and Products Carrying amount as of the balance sheet date of ethanol feedstocks and products. Convenience store merchandise Retail Related Inventory, Merchandise Materials and supplies Inventory, Raw Materials and Supplies, Gross Inventories Inventory, Net Inventories (Textual) Inventories (Textuals) [Abstract] Inventories. Excess of market value over carrying amount of LIFO inventories Excess of Replacement or Current Costs over Stated LIFO Value Fair Value, Assets Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation [Table] Fair Value, Assets Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation [Table] Asset Class [Axis] Fair Value, Assets Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation, by Asset Class [Domain] Fair Value by Asset Class [Domain] Investments of Certain Benefit Plans [Member] Certain Benefit Plans [Member] Certain Benefit Plans. Other Investments [Member] Securities (Assets) [Member] Income Statement Location [Axis] Income Statement Location [Axis] Income Statement Location [Domain] Income Statement Location [Domain] Operating Expense [Member] Operating Expense [Member] Business Segments [Axis] Segment [Domain] Refining [Member] Fair Value, Assets Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation [Line Items] Fair Value, Assets Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation [Line Items] Reconciliation of the beginning and ending balances for fair value measurements developed using significant unobservable inputs Fair Value, Assets Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation, Calculation [Roll Forward] Balance as of beginning of period Fair Value, Measurement with Unobservable Inputs Reconciliation, Recurring Basis, Asset Value Purchases Fair Value, Measurement with Unobservable Inputs Reconciliation, Recurring Basis, Asset, Purchases Total gains (losses) included in refining operating expenses Fair Value, Measurement with Unobservable Inputs Reconciliation, Recurring Basis, Asset, Gain (Loss) Included in Earnings Transfers in and/or out of Level 3 Fair Value, Measurement with Unobservable Inputs Reconciliation, Recurring Basis, Asset, Transfers, Net Balance as of end of period The amount of total gains (losses) included in income attributable to the change in unrealized gains (losses) relating to assets still held at end of period Fair Value, Assets Measured on Recurring Basis, Change in Unrealized Gain (Loss) Included in Other Income Fair Value Measurements, Other Financial Instruments [Abstract] Fair Value Measurements, Other Financial Instruments [Abstract] Fair Value, by Balance Sheet Grouping [Table] Fair Value, by Balance Sheet Grouping [Table] Fair Value, by Balance Sheet Grouping, Disclosure Item Amounts [Axis] Fair Value, Disclosure Item Amounts [Domain] Carrying (Reported) Amount, Fair Value Disclosure [Member] Estimate of Fair Value, Fair Value Disclosure [Member] Fair Value, Hierarchy [Axis] Fair Value, Inputs, Level 1 [Member] Fair Value, Inputs, Level 2 [Member] Fair Value, Balance Sheet Grouping, Financial Statement Captions Fair Value, Balance Sheet Grouping, Financial Statement Captions [Line Items] Cash and temporary cash investments at carrying amount Cash and temporary cash investments at fair value Cash and Cash Equivalents, Fair Value Disclosure Debt (excluding capital leases) at carrying amount Long-term Debt Debt (excluding capital leases) at fair value Debt Instrument, Fair Value Disclosure Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss) by Hedging Relationship, by Income Statement Location, by Derivative Instrument Risk [Table] Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss) by Hedging Relationship, by Income Statement Location, by Derivative Instrument Risk [Table] Emissions Allowance [Member] Emissions Allowance [Member] Emissions Allowance [Member] Hedging Relationship [Axis] Hedging Relationship [Domain] Hedging Relationship [Domain] Fair Value Hedging [Member] Fair Value Hedging [Member] Cash Flow Hedging [Member] Cash Flow Hedging [Member] Economic Hedging [Member] Trading Derivatives [Member] Commodity [Member] Other Trading [Member] Other Trading [Member] Derivative, by Nature [Axis] Derivative, by Nature [Axis] Derivative, Name [Domain] Derivative, Name [Domain] Interest Rate Swap [Member] Interest Rate Swap [Member] Derivative Instrument Risk [Axis] Derivative Contract Type [Domain] Commodity Contract [Member] Foreign Currency Contract [Member] Foreign Currency Contract [Member] Foreign Currency Contract. Other Contract [Member] Cost of Sales [Member] Cost of Sales [Member] Other Income Expense [Member] Other Income Expense [Member] Other income (expense) [Member] Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss) [Line Items] Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss) [Line Items] Effect of Derivative Instruments on Income and OCI Effect of Derivative Instruments on Statements of Income [Abstract] Effect of Derivative Instruments on Statements of Income [Abstract] Gain (loss) recognized in income on derivatives Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss) Recognized in Income, Net Gain (loss) recognized in income on hedged item Change in Unrealized Gain (Loss) on Hedged Item in Fair Value Hedge Gain (loss) recognized in income on derivatives (ineffective portion) Gain (Loss) on Fair Value Hedge Ineffectiveness, Net Gain recognized in OCI on derivatives (effective portion) Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss) Recognized in Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Effective Portion, Net Gain reclassified from accumulated OCI into income (effective portion) Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss) Reclassified from Accumulated OCI into Income, Effective Portion, Net Gain (loss) recognized in income on derivatives (ineffective portion) Gain (Loss) on Cash Flow Hedge Ineffectiveness, Net Price Risk Management Activities (Textual) Price Risk Management Activities Textual Abstract Price Risk Management Activities. Gain (loss) from components excluded from assessment of fair value hedge effectiveness, net Gain (Loss) from Components Excluded from Assessment of Fair Value Hedge Effectiveness, Net Gain (loss) from hedged firm commitment not qualifying as fair value hedge, net Gain (Loss) from Hedged Firm Commitment Not Qualifying as Fair Value Hedge, Net Gain (loss) from components excluded from assessment of cash flow hedge effectiveness, net Gain (Loss) from Components Excluded from Assessment of Cash Flow Hedge Effectiveness, Net Accumulated other comprehensive income, cumulative after-tax losses on cash flow hedges Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Cumulative Changes in Net Gain (Loss) from Cash Flow Hedges, Effect Net of Tax Gain (loss) from cash flow hedges to be reclassified within 12 months Cash Flow Hedge Gain (Loss) to be Reclassified within Twelve Months Amount reclassifed from accumulated OCI into income on discontinuance of cash flow hedges Gain (Loss) on Discontinuation of Cash Flow Hedge Due to Forecasted Transaction Probable of Not Occurring, Net Price Risk Management Activities, Policies [Abstract] Price Risk Management Activities, Policies [Abstract] Derivatives Derivatives, Policy [Policy Text Block] Derivative instruments collateral requirements Fair Value, Concentration of Risk, Collateral Policy [Policy Text Block] This elements represents a description of the policy governing collateral or other security requirements in support of financial instruments (as defined) subject to credit risk, information about access to that collateral or other security, and the nature and a brief description of the collateral or other security supporting those financial instruments (as defined). Fair Value by Measurement Frequency [Axis] Fair Value, Inputs, Level 3 [Member] Materials and supplies inventories Assets, nonrecurring Assets, Fair Value Disclosure Liabilities, nonrecurring Liabilities, Fair Value Disclosure Schedule of Long-term Debt Instruments [Table] Debt Instrument [Axis] Debt Instrument, Name [Domain] Gulf Opportunity Zone Revenue Bonds Series 2010 [Member] Gulf Opportunity Zone Revenue Bonds Series 2010 [Member] Tax Exempt Revenue Refunding Bonds Series 1997A [Member] Industrial Revenue Bonds - Tax-exempt Revenue Refunding Bonds Series 1997A, 5.45% [Member] Notes Due In 2012 [Member] Notes Due In 2012 [Member] 6.875% notes due in 2012 [Member] Tax Exempt Waste Disposal Revenue Bonds Series 1997 [Member] Tax Exempt Waste Disposal Revenue Bonds Series 1997 [Member] Industrial Revenue Bonds - Tax-exempt Waste Disposal Revenue Bonds Series 1997, 5.6% [Member] Tax Exempt Waste Disposal Revenue Bonds Series 1998 [Member] Tax Exempt Waste Disposal Revenue Bonds Series 1998 [Member] Industrial Revenue Bonds - Tax-exempt Waste Disposal Revenue Bonds Series 1998, 5.6% [Member] Tax Exempt Waste Disposal Revenue Bonds Series 1999 [Member] Tax Exempt Waste Disposal Revenue Bonds Series 1999 [Member] Industrial Revenue Bonds - Tax-exempt Waste Disposal Revenue Bonds Series 1999, 5.7% [Member] Tax Exempt Waste Disposal Revenue Bonds Series 2001 [Member] Tax Exempt Waste Disposal Revenue Bonds Series 2001 [Member] Industrial Revenue Bonds - Tax-exempt Waste Disposal Revenue Bonds Series 2001, 6.65% [Member] Industrial Revenue Bonds Tax Exempt Refunding Bonds [Member] Industrial Revenue Bonds - Tax Exempt Refunding Bonds [Member]. Senior Notes Due In May 2011 [Member] Senior Notes Due In May 2011 [Member] Senior Notes One - 6.125% due in May 2011 [Member] Tax Exempt Revenue Refunding Bonds Series 1997B [Member] Industrial Revenue Bonds - Tax-exempt Revenue Refunding Bonds Series 1997B, 5.40% [Member] Tax Exempt Revenue Refunding Bonds Series 1997C [Member] Industrial Revenue Bonds - Tax-exempt Revenue Refunding Bonds Series 1997C, 5.40% [Member] Senior Notes Due In February 2011 [Member] Senior Notes Three - 6.75% due in February 2011 [Member] Debt Instrument [Line Items] Non-Bank Debt (Textual) Debt Instruments [Abstract] Proceeds from financing arrangement Proceeds from Advances for Construction Debt repayments Interest rate of notes in percentage Debt Instrument, Interest Rate, Stated Percentage Debt instrument maturity date (month, day, year) Debt Instrument, Maturity Date Debt instrument mandatory tender date Debt Instrument, Mandatory Tender Date Mandatory date before maturity when outstanding debt instruments must be surrendered by their owners for purchase by the issuer, in CCYY-MM-DD format. Redemption value in percentage Redemption Value Percentage Of Stated Value Redemption Value Percentage Of Stated Value. Capitalized Interest (Textual) Capitalized Interest Costs, Including Allowance for Funds Used During Construction [Abstract] Interest costs incurred, capitalized Capitalized Interest Costs, Including Allowance for Funds Used During Construction DEBT Debt Disclosure [Text Block] PRICE RISK MANAGEMENT ACTIVITIES Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities Disclosure [Text Block] Consolidated Balance Sheets Statement of Financial Position [Abstract] ASSETS Assets [Abstract] Current assets: Assets, Current [Abstract] Cash and temporary cash investments Receivables, net Receivables, Net, Current Inventories Income taxes receivable Income Taxes Receivable, Current Deferred income taxes Deferred Tax Assets, Net of Valuation Allowance, Current Prepaid expenses and other Prepaid Expense and Other Assets, Current Total current assets Assets, Current Property, plant and equipment, at cost Property, Plant and Equipment, Gross Accumulated depreciation Accumulated Depreciation, Depletion and Amortization, Property, Plant, and Equipment Property, plant and equipment, net Intangible assets, net Intangible Assets, Net (Excluding Goodwill) Deferred charges and other assets, net Other Assets, Noncurrent Total assets LIABILITIES AND EQUITY Liabilities and Equity [Abstract] Current liabilities: Liabilities, Current [Abstract] Current portion of debt and capital lease obligations Debt, Current Accounts payable Accounts Payable, Current Accrued expenses Accrued Liabilities, Current Taxes other than income taxes Accrual For Taxes Other Than Income Taxes Including Ad Valorem Excise Sales And Use And Payroll Carrying value as of the balance sheet date of obligations incurred and payable for real and property taxes, excise, sales and use, and payroll taxes. For classified balance sheets, used to reflect the current portion of the liabilities (due within one year or within the normal operating cycle if longer). Income taxes payable Accrued Income Taxes, Current Deferred income taxes Deferred Tax Liabilities, Net, Current Total current liabilities Liabilities, Current Debt and capital lease obligations, less current portion Long-term Debt and Capital Lease Obligations Deferred income taxes Deferred Tax Liabilities, Net, Noncurrent Other long-term liabilities Other Liabilities, Noncurrent Commitments and contingencies Commitments and Contingencies Equity: Common stock, $0.01 par value; 1,200,000,000 shares authorized; 673,501,593 and 673,501,593 shares issued Common Stock, Value, Issued Additional paid-in capital Additional Paid in Capital, Common Stock Treasury stock, at cost; 120,035,210 and 116,689,450 common shares Treasury Stock, Value Retained earnings Retained Earnings (Accumulated Deficit) Accumulated other comprehensive income Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax Total Valero Energy Corporation stockholders' equity Stockholders' Equity Attributable to Parent Noncontrolling interest Stockholders' Equity Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest Total equity Total liabilities and equity Liabilities and Equity Schedule of Antidilutive Securities Excluded from Computation of Earnings Per Share [Table] Schedule of Antidilutive Securities Excluded from Computation of Earnings Per Share [Table] Antidilutive Securities Excluded from Computation of Earnings Per Share, by Antidilutive Securities [Axis] Antidilutive Securities [Axis] Antidilutive Securities, Name [Domain] Antidilutive Securities, Name [Domain] Common Equivalent Shares [Member] Stock Options [Member] Stock Options [Member] Antidilutive Securities Excluded from Computation of Earnings Per Common Share Antidilutive Securities Excluded from Computation of Earnings Per Share [Line Items] Amount of potentially dilutive securities excluded from computation of earnings per common share Antidilutive Securities Excluded from Computation of Earnings Per Share, Amount Consolidated Statements of Income Income Statement [Abstract] Operating revenues (a) Costs and expenses: Costs and Expenses [Abstract] Cost of sales Refining and Marketing Costs Operating expenses: Operating Expenses [Abstract] Refining Refining Operating Costs And Expenses Refining related operating cost. Retail Selling Expense Ethanol Ethanol Operating Costs And Expenses Ethanol related operating cost. General and administrative expenses General and Administrative Expense Depreciation and amortization expense Total costs and expenses Costs and Expenses Operating income Other income (expense), net Other Nonoperating Income (Expense) Interest and debt expense, net of capitalized interest Interest Expense, Debt Income from continuing operations before income tax expense Income (Loss) from Continuing Operations before Income Taxes, Extraordinary Items, Noncontrolling Interest Income tax expense Income Tax Expense (Benefit) Income from continuing operations Income (Loss) from Continuing Operations, Including Portion Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest Loss from discontinued operations, net of income taxes Income (Loss) from Discontinued Operations, Net of Tax, Including Portion Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest Net income Less: Net loss attributable to noncontrolling interest Net Income (Loss) Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest Net income attributable to Valero Energy Corporation stockholders Net Income (Loss) Attributable to Parent Net income attributable to Valero Energy Corporation stockholders: Income Amounts Attributable to Parent, Disclosures [Abstract] Continuing operations Income (Loss) from Continuing Operations Attributable to Parent Discontinued operations Income (Loss) from Discontinued Operations, Net of Tax, Attributable to Parent Earnings per common share: Earnings Per Share, Basic [Abstract] Continuing operations Income (Loss) from Continuing Operations, Per Basic Share Discontinued operations Income (Loss) from Discontinued Operations, Net of Tax, Per Basic Share Total Earnings Per Share, Basic Weighted-average common shares outstanding (in millions) Weighted Average Number of Shares Outstanding, Basic Earnings per common share - assuming dilution: Earnings Per Share, Diluted [Abstract] Continuing operations Income (Loss) from Continuing Operations, Per Diluted Share Discontinued operations Income (Loss) from Discontinued Operations, Net of Tax, Per Diluted Share Total Earnings Per Share, Diluted Weighted-average common shares outstanding - assuming dilution (in millions) Weighted Average Number of Shares Outstanding, Diluted Dividends per common share Common Stock, Dividends, Per Share, Cash Paid Supplemental Information Supplemental Information [Abstract] Supplemental information [Abstract] (a) Includes excise taxes on sales by our U.S. retail system Excise and Sales Taxes Schedule of Earnings Per Share, Basic, by Common Class, Including Two Class Method [Table] Restricted Stock [Member] Earnings Per Share, Basic, by Common Class, Including Two Class Method [Line Items] Earnings per common share from continuing operations: Net income attributable to Valero stockholders from continuing operations Less dividends paid: Dividends [Abstract] Common stock Nonvested restricted stock Dividends, Share-based Compensation, Cash Undistributed earnings Undistributed Earnings, Basic Weighted-average common shares outstanding Earnings per common share from continuing operations: Earnings Loss Per Common Share From Continuing Operations Abstract Earnings (loss) per common share from continuing operations. Distributed earnings Undistributed earnings Earnings Per Share, Basic, Undistributed Total earnings per common share from continuing operations Earnings per common share from continuing operations - assuming dilution: Common equivalent shares: Weighted Average Number Diluted Shares Outstanding Adjustment [Abstract] Stock options Incremental Common Shares Attributable to Share-based Payment Arrangements Performance awards and unvested restricted stock Incremental Common Shares Attributable to Participating Nonvested Shares with Non-forfeitable Dividend Rights Weighted-average common shares outstanding - assuming dilution Earnings per common share from continuing operations - assuming dilution Derivative [Table] Hedging Designation [Axis] Hedging Designation [Domain] Biofuels Blending [Member] Biofuels Blending [Member] Biofuels Blending [Member] Options Held [Member] Options Held [Member] Derivative by Transaction [Axis] Derivative by Transaction [Axis] Derivative by Transaction [Axis] Derivative by Transaction, Purchases and Sales [Domain] Derivative by Transaction, Purchases and Sales [Domain] Derivative by Transaction, Purchases and Sales [Domain] Purchases (Long) [Member] Purchases (Long) [Member] Purchases (Long) [Member] Sales (Short) [Member] Sales (Short) [Member] Sales (Short) [Member] Maturity Time Period [Axis] Maturity Time Period [Axis] Maturity Time Period. Maturity Time Period [Domain] Maturity Time Period [Domain] Maturity Time Period. Maturity Current Year [Member] Maturity Current Year [Member] Maturity Year Two [Member] Maturity Year Two [Member] Maturity Year Three [Member] Maturity Year Three [Member] Maturity Year Three [Member] Instrument [Axis] Instrument Type [Domain] Crude Oil (In thousands of barrels) [Member] Crude Oil [Member] Natural Gas (In millions of BTUs) [Member] Natural Gas In Btus [Member] Commodity three - natural gas in BTUs. Grain (In bushels) [Member] Grain In Bushels [Member] Commodity two - grains in bushels. Emission Allowances (in metric tons) [Member] Emission Allowances [Member] Emission Allowances [Member] Concentration of Credit or Market Risk [Axis] Industry of Counterparty [Domain] Industry of Counterparty [Domain] Refining Industry [Member] Refining Industry Member. Financial Services Industry [Member] Financial Services Industry Member. Derivative [Line Items] Volume of outstanding contracts Volume of Outstanding Contracts Abstract Volume of outstanding contracts. Nonmonetary notional amount of price risk derivatives Derivative, Nonmonetary Notional Amount Compliance program costs Amortization of Power Contracts Emission Credits Notional amount of interest rate derivatives Notional Amount of Interest Rate Derivatives Interest rate derivatives activity Derivative, Gain (Loss) on Derivative, Net Notional amount of foreign currency derivative purchase contracts Notional Amount of Foreign Currency Derivative Purchase Contracts Foreign currency commitments maturity date Maturity of Foreign Currency Derivatives Net receivables related to derivative instruments from counterparties Fair Value, Concentration of Risk, Derivative Instruments, Assets Fair Value Measurements, Policies [Abstract] Fair Value Measurements, Policies [Abstract] Offsetting fair value amounts of commodity derivative contracts Derivatives, Offsetting Fair Value Amounts, Policy [Policy Text Block] Decrease (increase) in current assets: Increase (Decrease) in Operating Assets [Abstract] Receivables, net Increase (Decrease) in Receivables Inventories Increase (Decrease) in Inventories Income taxes receivable Increase (Decrease) in Income Taxes Receivable Prepaid expenses and other Increase (Decrease) in Prepaid Expense and Other Assets Increase (decrease) in current liabilities: Increase (Decrease) in Operating Liabilities [Abstract] Accounts payable Increase (Decrease) in Accounts Payable Accrued expenses Increase (Decrease) in Accrued Liabilities Taxes other than income taxes Increase (Decrease) in Property and Other Taxes Payable Income taxes payable Increase (Decrease) in Income Taxes Payable Changes in current assets and current liabilities Cash Flows Related to Interest and Income Taxes Cash Flows Related to Interest and Income Taxes [Abstract] Cash Flows Related to Interest and Income Taxes [Abstract] Interest paid in excess of amount capitalized Interest Paid, Net Income taxes paid, net Income Taxes Paid, Net