Loss Per Share Attributable to Navistar International Corporation - Basic & Diluted Loss per Share (Details) (USD $) In Millions, except Per Share data, unless otherwise specified	3 Months Ended		6 Months Ended
	Apr. 30, 2013	Apr. 30, 2012	Apr. 30, 2013	Apr. 30, 2012
Earnings Per Share [Abstract]
Loss from continuing operations, net of tax	$ (353)	$ (138)	$ (467)	$ (282)
Loss from discontinued operations, net of tax	(21)	(34)	(30)	(43)
Net loss attributable to Navistar International Corporation	$ (374)	$ (172)	$ (497)	$ (325)
Weighted Average Number of Shares Outstanding, Basic	80.4	68.7	80.3	69.3
Weighted Average Number Diluted Shares Outstanding Adjustment	0	0	0	0
Weighted Average Number of Shares Outstanding, Diluted	80.4	68.7	80.3	69.3
Basic: Loss from Continuing Operations (in dollars per share)	$ (4.39)	$ (2.01)	$ (5.82)	$ (4.07)
Basic: Loss from Discontinued Operations (in dollars per share)	$ (0.26)	$ (0.49)	$ (0.37)	$ (0.62)
Earnings Per Share, Basic	$ (4.65)	$ (2.50)	$ (6.19)	$ (4.69)
Diluted: Loss from Continuing Operations (in dollars per share)	$ (4.39)	$ (2.01)	$ (5.82)	$ (4.07)
Diluted: Loss from Discontinued Operations (in dollars per share)	$ (0.26)	$ (0.49)	$ (0.37)	$ (0.62)
Earnings Per Share, Diluted	$ (4.65)	$ (2.50)	$ (6.19)	$ (4.69)