| Document and Entity Information | Jan. 24, 2022 |
| Cover [Abstract] | |
| Entity Registrant Name | Exterran Corp |
| Amendment Flag | false |
| Entity Central Index Key | 0001635881 |
| Document Type | 8-K |
| Document Period End Date | Jan. 24, 2022 |
| Entity Incorporation State Country Code | DE |
| Entity File Number | 001-36875 |
| Entity Tax Identification Number | 47-3282259 |
| Entity Address, Address Line One | 11000 Equity Drive |
| Entity Address, City or Town | Houston |
| Entity Address, State or Province | TX |
| Entity Address, Postal Zip Code | 77041 |
| City Area Code | (281) |
| Local Phone Number | 836-7000 |
| Written Communications | true |
| Soliciting Material | false |
| Pre Commencement Tender Offer | false |
| Pre Commencement Issuer Tender Offer | false |
| Security 12b Title | Common Stock, $0.01 par value per share |
| Trading Symbol | EXTN |
| Security Exchange Name | NYSE |
| Entity Emerging Growth Company | false |
