Summary of Significant Accounting Policies (Policies)

12 Months Ended

Oct. 31, 2018

Property, Plant and Equipment, Policy [Policy Text Block]

Property and Equipment

We report land, buildings, leasehold improvements, machinery and equipment (including tooling and pattern equipment), furniture, fixtures, and equipment, and equipment leased to others at cost, net of depreciation. We initially record assets under capital lease obligations at the lower of their fair value or the present value of the aggregate future minimum lease payments. We depreciate our assets using the straight-line method over the shorter of the lease term or the estimated useful lives of the assets.

The ranges of estimated useful lives are as follows:



	Years
Buildings	20 - 50
Leasehold improvements	3 - 20
Machinery and equipment	3 - 12
Furniture, fixtures, and equipment	3 - 15
Equipment leased to others	1 - 10

Long-lived assets are evaluated periodically to determine if an adjustment to the depreciation and amortization period or to the unamortized balance is warranted. Such evaluation is based principally on the expected utilization of the long-lived assets.

We depreciate trucks, tractors, and trailers leased to customers under operating lease agreements on a straight-line basis to the equipment's estimated residual value over the lease term. The residual values of the equipment represent estimates of the value of the assets at the end of the lease contracts and are initially recorded based on estimates of future market values. Realization of the residual values is dependent on our future ability to market the equipment. We review residual values periodically to determine that recorded amounts are appropriate and the equipment is not impaired.

Maintenance and repairs of property and equipment are expensed as incurred. We capitalize replacements and improvements that increase the estimated useful life or productive capacity of an asset and we capitalize interest on major construction and development projects while in progress.

Gains or losses on disposition of property and equipment are recognized in Other income, net.

We test for impairment of long-lived assets whenever events or changes in circumstances indicate that the carrying value of an asset or asset group (hereinafter referred to as "asset group") may not be recoverable by comparing the sum of the estimated undiscounted future cash flows expected to result from the operation of the asset group and its eventual disposition to the carrying value. During 2017, we identified a triggering event related to continued economic weakness in Brazil which resulted in the decline in forecasted results for the Brazilian asset group. The Brazilian asset group is included in our Global Operations segment. As a result, we estimated the recoverable amount of the asset group and determined that the sum of the estimated undiscounted future cash flows exceeds the carrying value and the asset group was not impaired. Significant adverse changes to our business environment and future cash flows could cause us to record impairment charges in future periods, which could be material.

Included in equipment leased to others are trucks that we produced or acquired to lease to customers as well as equipment that is financed by BMO that does not qualify for revenue recognition, as we retained substantial risks of ownership in the leased property, which are accounted for as operating leases and borrowings, respectively. In the Consolidated Statement of Cash Flows, the related expenditures are reflected as the Purchases of equipment leased to others in the investing section.

Standard Product Warranty, Policy [Policy Text Block]

Warranty

We generally offer one to five-year warranty coverage for our truck, bus, and engine products, as well as our service parts. Terms and conditions vary by product, customer, and country. We accrue warranty related costs under standard warranty terms and for certain claims outside the contractual obligation period that we choose to pay as accommodations to our customers.

Our warranty estimates are established using historical information about the nature, frequency, timing, and average cost of warranty claims. Warranty claims are influenced by numerous factors, including new product introductions, technological developments, the competitive environment, the design and manufacturing process, and the complexity and related costs of component parts. We estimate our warranty accrual for our engines and trucks based on engine types and model years. Our warranty accruals take into account the projected ultimate cost-per-unit ("CPU") utilizing historical claims information. The CPU represents the total cash projected to be spent for warranty claims for a particular model year during the warranty period, divided by the number of units sold. The projection of the ultimate CPU is affected by component failure rates, repair costs, and the timing of failures in the product life cycle. Warranty claims inherently have a high amount of variability in timing and severity and can be influenced by external factors. Our warranty estimation process takes into consideration numerous variables that contribute to the precision of the estimate, but also add to the complexity of the model. Including numerous variables also reduces the sensitivity of the model to any one variable. We perform periodic reviews of warranty spend data to allow for timely consideration of the effects on warranty accruals.

Initial warranty estimates for new model year products are based on the previous model year product's warranty experience until the new product progresses sufficiently through its life cycle and related claims data becomes mature. Historically, warranty claims experience for launch-year products has been higher compared to the prior model-year engines; however, over time we have been able to refine both the design and manufacturing process to reduce both the volume and the severity of warranty claims. New product launches require a greater use of judgment in developing estimates until historical experience becomes available.

We record adjustments to pre-existing warranties for changes in our estimate of warranty costs for products sold in prior fiscal years. Such adjustments typically occur when claims experience deviates from historic and expected trends. For 2018 and 2017, we recognized a benefit to pre-existing warranties of $9 million and $1 million, respectively, as compared to charges of $77 million in 2016. Future events and circumstances could materially change these estimates and require additional adjustments to our liability.

When we identify cost effective opportunities to address issues in products sold or corrective actions for safety issues, we initiate product recalls or field campaigns. As a result of the uncertainty surrounding the nature and frequency of product recalls and field campaigns, the liability for such actions are generally recorded when we commit to a product recall or field campaign. Each subsequent quarter after a recall or campaign is initiated the recorded liability balance is analyzed, reviewed, and adjusted if necessary to reflect any changes in the anticipated average cost of repair or number of repairs to be completed prospectively. Included in 2018 warranty expense were $10 million of charges related to new campaign issuances as well as changes in estimates of previously issued campaigns, as compared to $21 million and $17 million in 2017 and 2016, respectively. The charges were primarily recognized as adjustments to pre-existing warranties. As we continue to identify opportunities to improve the design and manufacturing of our engines we may incur additional charges for product recalls and field campaigns to address identified issues.

Optional extended warranty contracts can be purchased for periods ranging from one to ten years. Warranty revenues related to extended warranty contracts are amortized to income, over the life of the contract using the straight-line method. Costs under extended warranty contracts are expensed as incurred. We recognize losses on defined pools of extended warranty contracts when the expected costs for a given pool of contracts exceed related unearned revenue.

When collection is reasonably assured, we also estimate the amount of warranty claim recoveries to be received from our suppliers and record them in Other current assets and Other noncurrent assets. Recoveries related to specific product recalls, in which a supplier confirms its liability under the recall, are recorded in Trade and other receivables, net. Warranty costs and recoveries are included in Costs of products sold.

Although we believe that the estimates and judgments discussed herein are reasonable, actual results could differ and we may be exposed to increases or decreases in our warranty accrual that could be material.

Product Warranty Liability

The following table presents accrued product warranty and deferred warranty revenue activity:



	For the Years Ended October 31,
(in millions)	2018			2017			2016
Balance at beginning of period	$	629		$	818		$	994
Costs accrued and revenues deferred	211			199			186
Currency translation adjustment	1			(1		)	3
Adjustments to pre-existing warranties^(A)	(9		)	(1		)	77
Payments and revenues recognized	(303		)	(386		)	(442		)
Balance at end of period	529			629			818
Less: Current portion	255			307			396
Noncurrent accrued product warranty and deferred warranty revenue	$	274		$	322		$	422

________________________

(A)

Adjustments to pre-existing warranties reflect changes in our estimate of warranty costs for products sold in prior periods. Such adjustments typically occur when claims experience deviates from historical and expected trends. Our warranty liability is generally affected by component failure rates, repair costs, and the timing of failures. Future events and circumstances related to these factors could materially change our estimates and require adjustments to our liability. In addition, new product launches require a greater use of judgment in developing estimates until historical experience becomes available.

In the second quarter of 2016, we recorded a charge for adjustments to pre-existing warranties of $46 million or a charge of $0.56 per diluted share. The charge primarily relates to increases in both claim frequency and cost of repair across both the Medium Duty and Big Bore engine families. The charge increased the reserve for our standard warranty obligations as well as the loss positions related to our Big Bore extended service contracts. Adjustments to pre-existing warranties in 2016 include a benefit of $1 million related to our Workhorse Custom Chassis operations, which are reported in Discontinued Operations in our Consolidated Statements of Operations.

The impact of income taxes on the 2018, 2017, and 2016 adjustments are not material due to our deferred tax valuation allowances on our U.S. deferred tax assets.

Extended Warranty Programs

The amount of deferred revenue related to extended warranty programs was $255 million, $271 million, and $325 million at October 31, 2018, 2017, and 2016, respectively. Revenue recognized under our extended warranty programs was $104 million, $144 million, and $150 million for the years ended October 31, 2018, 2017, and 2016, respectively.

In 2018, we recognized a net benefit of $29 million related to extended warranty contracts on our proprietary Big-Bore engines, which includes a benefit of $33 million related to pre-existing warranties. In 2017, we recognized a net charge of $8 million related to extended warranty contracts on our proprietary Big-Bore engines, which includes a charge of $3 million related to pre-existing warranties. In 2016, we recognized a net charge of $34 million related to extended warranty contracts on our proprietary Big-Bore engines, which includes a charge of $26 million related to pre-existing warranties.

Goodwill and Intangible Assets, Policy [Policy Text Block]

Goodwill and Indefinite-Lived Intangible Assets

Goodwill represents the excess of the cost of an acquired business over the amounts assigned to the net assets. Goodwill is not amortized but is tested for impairment at a reporting unit level on an annual basis or more frequently, if circumstances change or an event occurs that would more likely than not reduce the fair value of a reporting unit below its carrying amount.

Qualitative factors may be assessed to determine whether it is more likely than not that the fair value of the reporting unit is less than its carrying amount. If the qualitative assessment indicates that the carrying amount is more likely than not higher than the fair value, goodwill is tested for impairment based on a two-step test. The first step compares the fair value of a reporting unit with its carrying amount, including goodwill. If the fair value of a reporting unit exceeds its carrying amount, goodwill of the reporting unit is considered not impaired, thus the second step of the impairment test is unnecessary. If the carrying amount of a reporting unit exceeds its fair value, the second step of the goodwill impairment test shall be performed to measure the amount of impairment loss, if any. The second step compares the implied fair value of reporting unit goodwill with the carrying amount of that goodwill. If the carrying amount of reporting unit goodwill exceeds the implied fair value of that goodwill, an impairment loss shall be recognized in an amount equal to that excess.

Significant judgment is applied when goodwill is assessed for impairment. This judgment includes developing cash flow projections, selecting appropriate discount rates, identifying relevant market comparables, incorporating general economic and market conditions, and selecting an appropriate control premium. The income approach is based on discounted cash flows which are derived from internal forecasts and economic expectations for each respective reporting unit.

An intangible asset determined to have an indefinite useful life is not amortized until its useful life is determined to no longer be indefinite. Indefinite-lived intangible assets are evaluated each reporting period to determine whether events and circumstances continue to support an indefinite useful life. Indefinite-lived intangible assets are tested for impairment annually or more frequently if events or changes in circumstances indicate that the asset might be impaired. The impairment test consists of a comparison of the fair value of the indefinite-lived intangible asset with its carrying amount. If the carrying amount of an indefinite-lived intangible asset exceeds its fair value, an impairment loss is recognized in an amount equal to that excess.

Significant judgment is applied when evaluating if an intangible asset has a finite useful life. In addition, for indefinite-lived intangible assets, significant judgment is applied in testing for impairment. This judgment includes developing cash flow projections, selecting appropriate discount rates, identifying relevant market comparables, and incorporating general economic and market conditions.

Intangible assets subject to amortization are also evaluated for impairment periodically or when indicators of impairment are determined to exist. We test for impairment of intangible assets, subject to amortization, by comparing the sum of the estimated undiscounted future cash flows expected to result from the operation of the asset group and its eventual disposition to the carrying value. If the sum of the undiscounted future cash flows is less than the carrying value, the fair value of the asset group is determined. The amount of impairment is calculated by subtracting the fair value of the asset group from the carrying value of the asset group. Intangible assets, subject to amortization, could become impaired in the future or require additional charges as a result of declines in profitability due to changes in volume, market pricing, cost, manner in which an asset is used, physical condition of an asset, laws and regulations, or the business environment. We amortize the cost of intangible assets over their respective estimated useful lives, generally on a straight-line basis.

The ranges for the amortization periods are generally as follows:



	Years
Customer base and relationships	3 - 15
Trademarks	20
Other	3 - 18

During the third quarter of 2016, the economic downturn in Brazil resulted in the continued decline in actual and forecasted results for the Brazilian engine reporting unit with an indefinite-lived intangible asset. As a result, we performed an impairment analysis in the third quarter of 2016 utilizing the income approach, based on discounted cash flows, which are derived from internal forecasts and economic expectations. It was determined that the carrying value of the trademark exceeded its fair value. As a result, we determined that the trademark was impaired and recognized an impairment charge of $1 million. The non-cash impairment charges were included in Asset impairment charges in our Consolidated Statements of Operations. The Brazilian engine reporting unit is included in our Global Operations segment.

Basis of Presentation and Consolidation

The accompanying audited consolidated financial statements include the assets, liabilities, and results of operations of our Manufacturing operations, which include majority-owned dealers ("Dealcors"), and our Financial Services operations, including VIEs of which we are the primary beneficiary. The effects of transactions among consolidated entities have been eliminated to arrive at the consolidated amounts.

Variable Interest Entities

We have an interest in several VIEs, primarily joint ventures, established to manufacture or distribute products and enhance our operational capabilities. We have determined for certain of our VIEs that we are the primary beneficiary because we have the power to direct the activities of the VIE that most significantly impact its economic performance and we have the obligation to absorb losses of, or the right to receive benefits from, the VIE that could potentially be significant to the VIE. Accordingly, we include in our consolidated financial statements the assets and liabilities and results of operations of those entities, even though we may not own a majority voting interest. The liabilities recognized as a result of consolidating these VIEs do not represent additional claims on our general assets; rather they represent claims against the specific assets of these VIEs. Assets of these entities are not readily available to satisfy claims against our general assets.

We are the primary beneficiary of our Blue Diamond Parts, LLC ("BDP") joint venture with Ford Motor Company ("Ford"). As a result, our Consolidated Balance Sheets include assets of $39 million and $49 million and liabilities of $4 million and $13 million as of October 31, 2018 and 2017, respectively, including $4 million and $10 million of cash and cash equivalents, at the respective dates, which are not readily available to satisfy claims against our general assets. The creditors of BDP do not have recourse to our general credit.

Our Financial Services segment consolidates several VIEs. As a result, our Consolidated Balance Sheets include secured assets of $994 million and $869 million as of October 31, 2018 and 2017, respectively, and liabilities of $852 million and $754 million as of October 31, 2018 and 2017, respectively, all of which are involved in securitizations that are treated as asset-backed debt. In addition, our Consolidated Balance Sheets include secured assets of $370 million and $278 million as of October 31, 2018 and 2017, respectively, and corresponding liabilities of $205 million and $194 million, at the respective dates, which are related to other secured transactions that do not qualify for sale accounting treatment, and therefore, are treated as borrowings secured by operating and finance leases. Investors that hold securitization debt have a priority claim on the cash flows generated by their respective securitized assets to the extent that the related VIEs are required to make principal and interest payments. Investors in securitizations of these entities have no recourse to our general credit.

We also have an interest in other VIEs, which we do not consolidate because we are not the primary beneficiary. Our financial support and maximum loss exposure relating to these non-consolidated VIEs are not material to our financial condition, results of operations, or cash flows.

We use the equity method to account for our investments in entities that we do not control under the voting interest or variable interest models, but where we have the ability to exercise significant influence over operating and financial policies. Equity in income of non-consolidated affiliates includes our share of the net income of these entities.

Equity Method Investments [Policy Text Block]

Related Party Transactions

We have a series of commercial relationships and agreements with TRATON AG (formerly Volkswagen Truck & Bus AG) and certain of its subsidiaries and affiliates ("TRATON Group") for royalties related to use of certain engine technology, contract manufacturing operations performed by us, the sale of engines, the sale and purchase of parts, and a procurement joint venture. We have also entered into development agreements with TRATON Group involving certain engine and transmission projects. This development work is being expensed as incurred. Revenue recognized for the years ended October 31, 2018 and 2017, was approximately $146 million and $119 million, respectively. Net expenses incurred for the years ended October 31, 2018 and 2017 were $27 million and $7 million, respectively, included primarily in Engineering and product development costs in our Consolidated Statements of Operations. Our receivable from TRATON Group was $10 million and $13 million as of October 31, 2018 and 2017, respectively. Our payable to TRATON Group was $25 million and $5 million as of October 31, 2018 and 2017, respectively.

Revenue Recognition

Our Manufacturing operations recognize revenue when we meet four basic criteria: (i) persuasive evidence that a customer arrangement exists, (ii) the price is fixed or determinable, (iii) collectability is reasonably assured, and (iv) delivery of product has occurred or services have been rendered. Sales are generally recognized when risk of ownership passes.

Sales to fleet customers and governmental entities are recognized in accordance with the terms of each contract. Revenue on certain customer requested bill and hold arrangements is not recognized until after the customer is notified that the product (i) has been completed according to customer specifications, (ii) has passed our quality control inspections, and (iii) is ready for delivery based upon the established delivery terms and risk of loss has transferred.

An allowance for sales returns is recorded as a reduction to revenue based upon estimates using historical information about returns. For the sale of service parts that include a component, we record revenue on a gross basis including the fair market value of the core. A core component is the basic forging or casting, such as an engine block, that can be remanufactured by a certified remanufacturing supplier. When a dealer returns a core within the specified eligibility period, we provide a core return credit, which is applied to the customer's account balance. At times, we may mark up the core charge beyond the amount we are charged by the supplier. This mark-up is recorded as a liability, as it represents the amount that will be paid to the dealer upon return of the core component and is in excess of the fair value to be received from the supplier.

Concurrent with our recognition of revenue, we recognize price allowances and the cost of incentive programs in the normal course of business based on programs offered to dealers or fleet customers. Estimates are made for sales incentives on certain vehicles in dealer stock inventory based on historical experience and announced special programs. Historically, we have had an increase in net orders for stock inventory from our dealers at the end of the year due to a combination of demand and, from time to time, incentives to dealers.

Truck sales to the U.S. and foreign governments of non-commercial products manufactured to government specifications, and other contract manufacturing arrangements, are recognized using the units-of-delivery measure under the percentage-of-completion accounting method as units are delivered and accepted, if required, by the customer.

Certain terms or modifications to U.S. and foreign government contracts may be unpriced; that is, the work to be performed is defined, but the related contract price is to be negotiated at a later date. In situations where we can reliably estimate a profit margin in excess of costs incurred, revenue and gross margin are recorded for delivered contract items. Otherwise, revenue is recognized when the price has been agreed with the government and costs are deferred when it is probable that the costs will be recovered.

Shipping and handling amounts billed to our customers are included in Sales of manufactured products, net and the related shipping and handling costs incurred are included in Costs of products sold.

Financial Services operations recognize revenue from retail notes, finance leases, wholesale notes, retail accounts, and wholesale accounts as Finance revenues over the term of the receivables utilizing the effective interest method. Certain direct origination costs and fees are deferred and recognized as adjustments to yield and are reported as part of interest income over the life of the receivable. Loans are considered to be impaired when we conclude it is probable the customer will not be able to make full payment according to contractual terms after reviewing the customer's financial performance, payment ability, capital-raising potential, management style, economic situation, and other factors. The accrual of interest on such loans is discontinued when the loan becomes 90 days or more past due. Finance revenues on these loans are recognized only to the extent cash payments are received. We resume accruing interest on these accounts when payments are current according to the terms of the loans and future payments are reasonably assured.

Operating lease revenues are recognized on a straight-line basis over the life of the lease. Recognition of revenue is suspended when management determines the collection of future revenue is not probable. Recognition of revenue is resumed if collection again becomes probable.

Selected receivables are securitized and sold to public and private investors with limited recourse. Our Financial Services operations continue to service the sold receivables. These transactions do not qualify for sale accounting under U.S. GAAP and are therefore accounted for as secured borrowing transactions.

Cash and Cash Equivalents

All highly liquid financial instruments with original maturities of 90 days or less, consisting primarily of U.S. Treasury bills, federal agency securities, and commercial paper, are classified as cash equivalents.

Restricted cash is related to our securitization facilities, senior and subordinated floating rate asset-backed notes, wholesale trust agreements, indentured trust agreements, letters of credit, Environmental Protection Agency ("EPA") requirements, and workers compensation requirements. The restricted cash and cash equivalents for our securitized facilities are restricted to pay interest expense, principal, or other amounts associated with our securitization agreements.

Marketable Securities

Marketable securities consist of available-for-sale securities and are measured and reported at fair value. The difference between amortized cost and fair value is recorded as a component of Accumulated other comprehensive loss ("AOCL") in Stockholders' Deficit, net of taxes. Most securities with remaining maturities of less than twelve months and other investments needed for current cash requirements are classified as current in our Consolidated Balance Sheets. Gains and losses on the sale of marketable securities are determined using the specific identification method and are recorded in Other income, net.

We evaluate our investments in marketable securities at the end of each reporting period to determine if a decline in fair value is other than temporary. When a decline in fair value is determined to be other than temporary, an impairment charge is recorded and a new cost basis in the investment is established. Our marketable securities are classified as Level 1 in the fair value hierarchy.

Derivative Instruments

We utilize derivative instruments to manage certain exposure to changes in foreign currency exchange rates, interest rates, and commodity prices. The fair values of all derivative instruments are recognized as assets or liabilities at the balance sheet date. Changes in the fair value of these derivative instruments are recognized in our operating results or included in AOCL, depending on whether the derivative instrument is a fair value or cash flow hedge and whether it qualifies for hedge accounting treatment. We elected to apply the normal purchase and normal sale exclusion to certain commodity contracts that are entered into to be used in production within a reasonable time during the normal course of business. For the years ended October 31, 2018, 2017, and 2016, we elected not to use hedge accounting and all changes in the fair value of our derivatives, except for those qualifying under the normal purchases and normal sales exception, were recognized in our operating results.

Gains and losses on derivative instruments are recognized in Costs of products sold, Interest expense, or Other income, net depending on the underlying exposure. The exchange of cash associated with derivative transactions is classified in the Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows in the same category as the cash flows from the items subject to the economic hedging relationships.

Trade and Finance Receivables

Trade Receivables

Trade accounts receivable and trade notes receivable primarily arise from sales of goods to independently owned and operated dealers, original equipment manufacturers ("OEMs"), and commercial customers in the normal course of business.

Finance Receivables

Finance receivables consist of the following:


•	Retail notes—Retail notes primarily consist of fixed rate loans to commercial customers to facilitate their purchase of new and used trucks, and related equipment.


•	Finance leases—Finance leases consist of direct financing leases to commercial customers for acquisition of new and used trucks, and related equipment.


•	Wholesale notes—Wholesale notes primarily consist of variable rate loans to our dealers for the purchase of new and used trucks, and related equipment.


•	Retail accounts—Retail accounts consist of short-term accounts receivable that finance the sale of products to commercial customers.


•	Wholesale accounts—Wholesale accounts consist of short-term accounts receivable primarily related to the sales of items other than trucks, and related equipment (e.g. service parts) to dealers.

Finance receivables are classified as held-to-maturity and are recorded at gross value less unearned income and are reported net of allowances for doubtful accounts. Unearned revenue is amortized to revenue over the life of the receivable using the effective interest method. Our Financial Services operations purchase the majority of the wholesale notes receivable and some retail notes and accounts receivable arising from our Manufacturing operations. The Financial Services operations retain as collateral a security interest in the equipment associated with retail notes, wholesale notes, and finance leases.

Sales of Trade and Finance Receivables

We sell finance receivables using a process commonly known as securitization, whereby asset-backed securities are sold via public offering or private placement. None of our securitizations qualify for sales accounting treatment or as an off-balance sheet arrangement. As a result, the transferred receivables and the associated secured borrowings are included in our Consolidated Balance Sheets and no gain or loss is recorded on the sale.

We also act as servicer of transferred receivables. The servicing duties include collecting payments on receivables and preparing monthly investor reports on the performance of the receivables that are used by the trustee to distribute monthly interest and principal payments to investors. While servicing the receivables, we apply the same servicing policies and procedures that are applied to our owned receivables.

On a limited basis, we have sold certain receivables to third party lenders, without recourse or future obligations, and generally with no gain or loss.

Allowance for Doubtful Accounts

An allowance for doubtful accounts is established through a charge to Selling, general and administrative ("SG&A") expenses. The allowance is an estimate of the amount required to absorb probable losses on trade and finance receivables that may become uncollectible. The receivables are charged off when amounts due are determined to be uncollectible.

We have two portfolio segments of finance receivables based on the type of financing inherent to each portfolio. The retail portfolio segment represents loans or leases to end-users for the purchase or lease of vehicles. The wholesale portfolio segment represents loans to dealers to finance their inventory. As the initial measurement attributes and the monitoring and assessment of credit risk or the performance of the receivables are consistent within each of our receivable portfolios, we determined that each portfolio consisted of one class of receivable.

Impaired receivables are specifically identified and segregated from the remaining portfolio. The expected loss on impaired receivables is fully reserved in a separate calculation as a specific reserve based on the unique ability of the customer to pay and the estimated value of the collateral. The historical loss experience and portfolio quality trends of the retail portfolio segment compared to the wholesale portfolio segment are inherently different. A specific reserve on impaired retail receivables is recorded if the estimated fair value of the underlying collateral, net of selling costs, is less than the principal balance of the receivable. We calculate a general reserve on the remaining loan portfolio by applying loss ratios which are determined using actual loss experience and customer payment history, in conjunction with current economic and portfolio quality trends. In addition, we analyze specific economic indicators such as tonnage, fuel prices, and gross domestic product for additional insight into the overall state of the economy and its potential impact on our portfolio.

To establish a specific reserve for impaired wholesale receivables, we consider the same factors discussed above but also consider the financial strength of the dealer and key management, the timeliness of payments, the number and location of satellite locations, the number of dealers of competitor manufacturers in the market area, the type of equipment normally financed, and the seasonality of the business.

Repossessions

Gains or losses arising from the sale of repossessed collateral supporting finance receivables and operating leases are recognized in Other income, net. Repossessed assets are recorded within Inventories at the lower of historical cost or fair value, less estimated costs to sell.

Inventories

Inventories are valued at the lower of cost or net realizable value ("NRV"). Cost is principally determined using the first-in, first-out method. Our gross used truck inventory was $154 million at October 31, 2018 compared to $206 million at October 31, 2017, offset by reserves of $31 million and $110 million, respectively.

In valuing our used truck inventory, we are required to make assumptions regarding the level of reserves required to value inventories at their NRV. Our judgments and estimates for used truck inventory are based on an analysis of current and forecasted sales prices, aging of and demand for used trucks, and the mix of sales through various market channels. The NRV is subject to change based on numerous conditions, including age, specifications, mileage, timing of sales, market mix and current and forecasted pricing. While calculations are made after taking these factors into account, significant management judgment regarding expectations for future events is involved. Future events that could significantly influence our judgment and related estimates include general economic conditions in markets where our products are sold, actions of our competitors, and the ability to sell used trucks in a timely manner.

The following table presents our used truck reserve:



	For the Years Ended October 31,
(in millions)	2018			2017			2016
Balance at beginning of period	$	110		$	208		$	110
Additions charged to expense^(A)	50			111			187
Deductions/Other adjustments^(B)	(129		)	(209		)	(89		)
Balance at end of period	$	31		$	110		$	208

_________________________


(A)	Additions charged to expense reflects the increase of the reserve for inventory on hand. During 2017, we implemented a shift in market mix to include an increase in volume to certain export markets, which have a lower price point as compared to sales through our domestic channels, and lower domestic pricing to enable higher sales velocity.


(B)	Deductions/Other adjustments include reductions of the reserve related to the sale of units.

Property and Equipment

The ranges of estimated useful lives are as follows:



	Years
Buildings	20 - 50
Leasehold improvements	3 - 20
Machinery and equipment	3 - 12
Furniture, fixtures, and equipment	3 - 15
Equipment leased to others	1 - 10

Gains or losses on disposition of property and equipment are recognized in Other income, net.

Goodwill and Indefinite-Lived Intangible Assets

The ranges for the amortization periods are generally as follows:



	Years
Customer base and relationships	3 - 15
Trademarks	20
Other	3 - 18

Investments in Non-consolidated Affiliates

Equity method investments are recorded at original cost and adjusted periodically to recognize (i) our proportionate share of the investees' net income or losses after the date of investment, (ii) additional contributions made and dividends or distributions received, and (iii) impairment losses resulting from adjustments to fair value.

We assess the potential impairment of our equity method investments and determine fair value based on valuation methodologies, as appropriate, including the present value of estimated future cash flows, estimates of sales proceeds, and market multiples. If an investment is determined to be impaired and the decline in value is other than temporary, we record an appropriate write-down.

Debt Issuance Costs

We amortize debt issuance costs, discounts and premiums over the remaining life of the related debt using the effective interest method. The related income or expense is included in Interest expense. We record debt issuance costs, discounts and premiums associated with term debt as a direct deduction from, or addition to, the face amount of the debt. We record debt issuance costs associated with line-of-credit debt as other assets.

Pensions and Postretirement Benefits

We use actuarial methods and assumptions to account for our pension plans and other postretirement benefit plans. Pension and other postretirement benefits expense includes the actuarially computed cost of benefits earned during the current service period, the interest cost on accrued obligations, the expected return on plan assets, the straight-line amortization of net actuarial gains and losses and plan amendments, and adjustments due to settlements and curtailments.

Engineering and Product Development Costs

Engineering and product development costs arise from ongoing costs associated with improving existing products and manufacturing processes and for the introduction of new truck and engine components and products, and are expensed as incurred.

Advertising Costs

Advertising costs are expensed as incurred and are included in SG&A expenses. These costs totaled $31 million, $26 million, and $13 million for the years ended October 31, 2018, 2017, and 2016, respectively.

Contingency Accruals

We accrue for loss contingencies associated with outstanding litigation for which we have determined it is probable that a loss has occurred and the amount of loss can be reasonably estimated. Our asbestos, product liability, environmental, and workers compensation accruals also include estimated future legal fees associated with the loss contingencies, as we believe we can reasonably estimate those costs. In all other instances, legal fees are expensed as incurred. These expenses may be recorded in Costs of products sold, SG&A expenses, or Other income, net. These estimates are based on our expectations of the scope, length to complete, and complexity of the claims. In the future, additional adjustments may be recorded as the scope, length, or complexity of outstanding litigation changes.

Warranty

Product Warranty Liability

The following table presents accrued product warranty and deferred warranty revenue activity:



	For the Years Ended October 31,
(in millions)	2018			2017			2016
Balance at beginning of period	$	629		$	818		$	994
Costs accrued and revenues deferred	211			199			186
Currency translation adjustment	1			(1		)	3
Adjustments to pre-existing warranties^(A)	(9		)	(1		)	77
Payments and revenues recognized	(303		)	(386		)	(442		)
Balance at end of period	529			629			818
Less: Current portion	255			307			396
Noncurrent accrued product warranty and deferred warranty revenue	$	274		$	322		$	422

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(A)

The impact of income taxes on the 2018, 2017, and 2016 adjustments are not material due to our deferred tax valuation allowances on our U.S. deferred tax assets.

Extended Warranty Programs

Stock-based Compensation

We have various plans that provide for the granting of stock-based compensation to certain employees, directors, and consultants, which is further described in Note 17, Stock-Based Compensation Plans. Shares are issued upon option exercise from Common stock held in treasury.

For transactions in which we obtain employee services in exchange for an award of equity instruments, we measure the cost of the services based on the grant date fair value of the award. We recognize the cost over the period during which an employee is required to provide services in exchange for the award, known as the requisite service period (usually the vesting period). Costs related to plans with graded vesting are generally recognized using a straight-line method.

Foreign Currency Translation

We translate the financial statements of foreign subsidiaries whose local currency is their functional currency to U.S. dollars using period-end exchange rates for assets and liabilities and weighted average exchange rates for each period for revenues and expenses. Differences arising from exchange rate changes are included in the Foreign currency translation adjustment component of AOCL.

For foreign subsidiaries whose functional currency is the U.S. dollar, we remeasure non-monetary balance sheet accounts and the related income statement accounts at historical exchange rates. Gains and losses arising from fluctuations in currency exchange rates on transactions denominated in currencies other than the functional currency are recognized in earnings as incurred. We recognized net foreign currency transaction losses of $2 million, $16 million, and less than $1 million in 2018, 2017, and 2016, respectively, which were recorded in Other income, net.

Income Taxes

We file a consolidated U.S. federal income tax return for NIC and its eligible domestic subsidiaries. Our non-U.S. subsidiaries file income tax returns in their respective local jurisdictions. We account for income taxes under the asset and liability method. Deferred tax assets and liabilities are recognized for the future tax consequences attributable to temporary differences between the financial statement carrying amounts of existing assets and liabilities and their respective tax bases and tax benefit carryforwards. Deferred tax assets and liabilities at the end of each period are determined using enacted tax rates. A valuation allowance is established or maintained when, based on currently available information, it is more likely than not that all or a portion of a deferred tax asset will not be realized.

We recognize the tax benefit from an uncertain tax position claimed or expected to be claimed on a tax return only if it is more likely than not that the tax position will be sustained on examination by taxing authorities, based on the technical merits of the position. The tax benefits recognized in the financial statements from such a position are measured based on the largest benefit that has a greater than fifty percent likelihood of being realized upon ultimate settlement.

We apply the intraperiod tax allocation rules to allocate income taxes among continuing operations, discontinued operations, other comprehensive income (loss), and additional paid-in capital when we meet the criteria as prescribed in the rules.

Earnings Per Share

The calculation of basic earnings per share is based on the weighted average number of our shares of common stock outstanding during the applicable period. The calculation for diluted earnings per share recognizes the effect of all potential dilutive shares of common stock that were outstanding during the respective periods, unless their impact would be anti-dilutive.

Diluted earnings per share recognizes the dilution that would occur if securities or other contracts to issue common stock were exercised or converted into shares using the treasury stock method.

Use of Estimates

The preparation of financial statements in conformity with U.S. GAAP requires us to make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities and disclosure of contingent liabilities at the date of the consolidated financial statements and the reported amounts of revenues and expenses for the periods presented. Significant estimates and assumptions are used for, but are not limited to, pension and other postretirement benefits, allowance for doubtful accounts, income tax contingency accruals and valuation allowances, product warranty accruals, used truck inventory valuations, asbestos and other product liability accruals, asset impairment charges, restructuring charges and litigation-related accruals. Actual results could differ from our estimates.

Concentration Risks

Our financial condition, results of operations, and cash flows are subject to concentration risks related to our significant unionized workforce. As of October 31, 2018, approximately 8,200, or 99%, of our hourly workers and approximately 700, or 13%, of our salaried workers, are represented by labor unions and are covered by collective bargaining agreements. Our current master collective bargaining agreement with the United Automobile, Aerospace and Agricultural Implement Workers of America ("UAW") expired in October 2018 and we are in negotiations with the UAW to enter into a new collective bargaining agreement. Our future operations may be affected by changes in governmental procurement policies, budget considerations, changing national defense requirements, and political, regulatory and economic developments in the U.S. and certain foreign countries (primarily Canada, Mexico, and Brazil).

Inventory, Policy [Policy Text Block]

Inventories

The following table presents our used truck reserve:



	For the Years Ended October 31,
(in millions)	2018			2017			2016
Balance at beginning of period	$	110		$	208		$	110
Additions charged to expense^(A)	50			111			187
Deductions/Other adjustments^(B)	(129		)	(209		)	(89		)
Balance at end of period	$	31		$	110		$	208

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(A)	Additions charged to expense reflects the increase of the reserve for inventory on hand. During 2017, we implemented a shift in market mix to include an increase in volume to certain export markets, which have a lower price point as compared to sales through our domestic channels, and lower domestic pricing to enable higher sales velocity.


(B)	Deductions/Other adjustments include reductions of the reserve related to the sale of units.

New Accounting Pronouncements, Policy [Policy Text Block]

Recently Issued Accounting Standards