Caterpillar Financial Services 10-K 17 Feb 15 2014 FY Annual report Financial data

Document_and_Entity_Informatio

Document and Entity Information Document (USD $)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014	Feb. 17, 2015
Document Information [Line Items]
Entity Registrant Name	CATERPILLAR FINANCIAL SERVICES CORPORATION
Entity Central Index Key	764764
Current Fiscal Year End Date	-19
Entity Filer Category	Non-accelerated Filer
Document Type	10-K
Document Period End Date	31-Dec-14
Document Fiscal Year Focus	2014
Document Fiscal Period Focus	FY
Amendment Flag	FALSE
Entity Common Stock, Shares Outstanding		1
Entity Well-known Seasoned Issuer	Yes
Entity Voluntary Filers	No
Entity Current Reporting Status	Yes
Entity Public Float	$0

Consolidated_Statements_of_Pro

Consolidated Statements of Profit (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Millions, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2014		Dec. 31, 2013		Dec. 31, 2012
Revenues:
Retail finance	$1,366		$1,387		$1,342
Operating lease	1,057		948		860
Wholesale finance	311		306		335
Other, net	151		144		156
Total revenues	2,885		2,785		2,693
Expenses:
Interest	631		734		801
Depreciation on equipment leased to others	870		770		688
General, operating and administrative	433		427		416
Provision for credit losses	139		101		163
Other	37		24		29
Total expenses	2,110		2,056		2,097
Other income (expense)	-22		-35		-12
Profit before income taxes	753		694		584
Provision for income taxes	209		167		145
Profit of consolidated companies	544		527		439
Less: Profit attributable to noncontrolling interests	9		14		11
Profit	$535	[1]	$513	[1]	$428	[1]
[1]	Profit attributable to Caterpillar Financial Services Corporation.

Consolidated_Statements_of_Com

Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Millions, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
Statement of Comprehensive Income [Abstract]
Profit of consolidated companies	$544	$527	$439
Other comprehensive income (loss), net of tax:
Foreign currency translation, net of tax (expense)/benefit	-481	-59	62
Derivative financial instruments:
Gains (losses) deferred, net of tax (expense)/benefit	-4	-1	1
(Gains) losses reclassified to earnings, net of tax expense/(benefit)	4	4	-3
Total Other comprehensive income (loss), net of tax	-481	-56	60
Comprehensive income (loss)	63	471	499
Less: Comprehensive income attributable to the noncontrolling interests	9	17	11
Comprehensive income (loss) attributable to Caterpillar Financial Services Corporation	$54	$454	$488

Consolidated_Statements_of_Com1

Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income Parenthetical (Parentheticals) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Millions, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
Statement of Comprehensive Income [Abstract]
Foreign currency translation, tax	($119)	$41	$19
Derivative financial instruments:
Gains (losses) deferred, tax	2	1	0
(Gains) losses reclassified to earnings, tax	($2)	($2)	$1

Consolidated_Statements_of_Fin

Consolidated Statements of Financial Position (USD $)	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
In Millions, unless otherwise specified
Assets:
Cash and cash equivalents	$857	$1,320	$2,080
Finance receivables (Note 3)
Retail notes receivable	11,005	10,858	10,990
Wholesale notes receivable	4,514	4,153	4,238
Finance leases and installment sale contracts - Retail	14,455	14,551	13,695
Finance leases and installment sale contracts - Wholesale	384	480	643
Total gross finance receivables	30,358	30,042	29,566
Less: Unearned income	-883	-976	-998
Less: Allowance for credit losses	-401	-387	-429
Total net finance receivables	29,074	28,679	28,139
Notes receivable from Caterpillar (Note 13)	414	345	360
Equipment on operating leases, less accumulated depreciation (Note 4)	3,624	3,544	2,970
Deferred and refundable income taxes (Note 11)	206	166	115
Other assets	1,001	1,060	1,071
Total assets	35,176	35,114	34,735
Liabilities and stockholder's equity:
Payable to dealers and others	113	118	109
Payable to Caterpillar - other	69	80	73
Accrued expenses	212	251	267
Income taxes payable	66	52	70
Payable to Caterpillar – borrowings (Note 13)	1,108	1,118	208
Short-term borrowings (Note 7)	4,699	3,663	4,651
Current maturities of long-term debt (Note 8)	6,283	6,592	5,991
Long-term debt (Note 8)	18,291	18,737	19,098
Deferred income taxes and other liabilities (Note 11)	681	512	548
Total liabilities	31,522	31,123	31,015
Commitments and contingent liabilities (Note 10)
Common stock - $1 par value Authorized: 2,000 shares; Issued and outstanding: one share (at paid-in amount)	745	745	745
Additional paid-in capital	2	2	2
Retained earnings	3,139	3,004	2,691
Accumulated other comprehensive income/(loss)	-364	117	176
Noncontrolling interests	132	123	106
Total stockholder's equity	3,654	3,991	3,720
Total liabilities and stockholder's equity	$35,176	$35,114	$34,735

Consolidated_Statements_of_Fin1

Consolidated Statements of Financial Position Parenthetical (Parentheticals) (USD $)	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
Liabilities and Stockholders' Equity [Abstract]
Common stock - par value	$1	$1	$1
Common stock - authorized	2,000	2,000	2,000
Common stock - issued	1	1	1
Common stock - outstanding	1	1	1

Consolidated_Statements_of_Cha

Consolidated Statements of Changes in Stockholder's Equity (USD $)	Total	Common stock	Additional paid-in capital	Retained earnings	Accumulated other comprehensive income/(loss)	Noncontrolling interests
In Millions, unless otherwise specified
Balance at Dec. 31, 2011	$3,471	$745	$2	$2,513	$116	$95
Increase (Decrease) in Stockholders' Equity [Roll Forward]
Profit of consolidated companies	439			428		11
Dividend paid to Caterpillar	-250			-250
Foreign currency transalation, net of tax	62				62	0
Derivative financial instruments, net of tax	-2				-2
Balance at Dec. 31, 2012	3,720	745	2	2,691	176	106
Increase (Decrease) in Stockholders' Equity [Roll Forward]
Profit of consolidated companies	527			513		14
Dividend paid to Caterpillar	-200			-200
Foreign currency transalation, net of tax	-59				-62	3
Derivative financial instruments, net of tax	3				3
Balance at Dec. 31, 2013	3,991	745	2	3,004	117	123
Increase (Decrease) in Stockholders' Equity [Roll Forward]
Profit of consolidated companies	544			535		9
Dividend paid to Caterpillar	-400			-400
Foreign currency transalation, net of tax	-481				-481	0
Derivative financial instruments, net of tax	0				0
Balance at Dec. 31, 2014	$3,654	$745	$2	$3,139	($364)	$132

Consolidated_Statements_of_Cas

Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Millions, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
Cash flows from operating activities:
Profit of consolidated companies	$544	$527	$439
Adjustments for non-cash items:
Depreciation and amortization	883	790	707
Amortization of receivables purchase discount	-243	-233	-241
Provision for credit losses	139	101	163
Gain on sales of receivables	-5	-4	-3
Other, net	-4	77	1
Changes in assets and liabilities:
Receivables from others	10	25	-22
Other receivables/payables with Caterpillar	23	1	11
Payable to dealers and others	-26	-95	-34
Accrued interest payable	-60	-22	-13
Accrued expenses and other liabilities, net	108	-4	-18
Income taxes payable	-33	-65	48
Payments on interest rate swaps	2	-2	-4
Net cash provided by operating activities	1,338	1,096	1,034
Cash flows from investing activities:
Capital expenditures for equipment on operating leases and other capital expenditures	-1,627	-1,822	-1,660
Proceeds from disposals of equipment	771	681	875
Additions to finance receivables	-14,396	-14,075	-18,750
Collections of finance receivables	12,608	12,256	14,789
Net changes in Caterpillar purchased receivables	10	181	250
Proceeds from sales of receivables	179	227	144
Net change in variable lending to Caterpillar	0	32	-32
Additions to other notes receivable with Caterpillar	-103	-45	-107
Collections on other notes receivable with Caterpillar	34	29	103
Restricted cash and cash equivalents activity, net	6	2	45
Other, net	-40	3	-4
Net cash (used in) provided by investing activities	-2,558	-2,531	-4,347
Cash flows from financing activities:
Net change in variable lending from Caterpillar	0	-65	203
Proceeds from borrowings with Caterpillar	0	1,000	0
Proceeds from debt issued (original maturities greater than three months)	8,655	9,133	13,806
Payments on debt issued (original maturities greater than three months)	-8,463	-9,101	-9,935
Short-term borrowings, net (original maturities three months or less)	1,043	-70	480
Dividend paid to Caterpillar	-400	-200	-250
Net cash provided by (used in) financing activities	835	697	4,304
Effect of exchange rate changes on cash and cash equivalents	-78	-22	-87
Increase/(decrease) in cash and cash equivalents	-463	-760	904
Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of period	1,320	2,080	1,176
Cash and cash equivalents at end of period	857	1,320	2,080
Cash paid for interest	674	713	797
Cash paid for taxes	$175	$192	$101
Cash and cash equivalents policy	All short-term investments, which consist primarily of highly liquid investments with original maturities of three months or less, are considered to be cash equivalents.

Summary_of_Significant_Account

Summary of Significant Accounting Policies	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014
Organization, Consolidation and Presentation of Financial Statements [Abstract]
Summary of Significant Accounting Policies	SUMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES
	A. Nature of Operations
	Caterpillar Financial Services Corporation, a Delaware corporation organized in 1981 (together with its subsidiaries, "Cat Financial," "the Company," "we" and "our"), is a wholly-owned finance subsidiary of Caterpillar Inc. (together with its other subsidiaries, "Caterpillar" or "Cat").  Our primary business is to provide retail and wholesale financing alternatives for Caterpillar products to customers and dealers around the world.  Retail financing is primarily comprised of financing of Caterpillar equipment, machinery and engines.  In addition, we also provide financing for vehicles, power generation facilities and marine vessels that, in most cases, incorporate Caterpillar products.  We also provide wholesale financing to Caterpillar dealers and purchase short-term receivables from Caterpillar.
	B. Basis of Consolidation
	The consolidated financial statements include the accounts of Cat Financial.  Investments in companies that are owned 20 percent to 50 percent or are less than 20 percent owned and for which we have significant influence are accounted for by the equity method.  Investments in companies that are less than 20 percent owned and for which we do not have significant influence are accounted for by the cost method.  All material intercompany balances have been eliminated.
	We consolidate all variable-interest entities (VIEs) where we are the primary beneficiary. For VIEs, we assess whether we are the primary beneficiary as prescribed by the accounting guidance on the consolidation of VIEs. The primary beneficiary of a VIE is the party that has the power to direct the activities that most significantly impact the performance of the entity and the obligation to absorb losses or the right to receive benefits that could potentially be significant to the entity. Please refer to Note 10 for more information.
	C. Recognition of Earned Income
	•	Retail finance revenue on finance leases and installment sale contracts is recognized over the term of the contract at a constant rate of return on the scheduled outstanding principal balance.  Revenue on retail notes is recognized based on the daily balance of retail receivables outstanding and the applicable effective interest rate.
	•	Operating lease revenue is recorded on a straight-line basis in the period earned over the life of the contract.
	•	Wholesale finance revenue on finance leases and installment sale contracts related to financing dealer inventory and rental fleets is recognized over the term of the contract at a constant rate of return on the scheduled outstanding principal balance.  Revenue on wholesale notes is recognized based on the daily balance of wholesale receivables outstanding and the applicable effective interest rate.
	•	Loan origination and commitment fees are deferred and amortized to revenue using the interest method over the life of the finance receivables.
	Recognition of income is suspended and the loan or finance lease is placed on non-accrual status when management determines that collection of future income is not probable (generally after 120 days past due except in locations where local regulatory requirements dictate a different method, or instances in which relevant information is known that warrants placing the loan or finance lease on non-accrual status).  Accrual is resumed, and previously suspended income is recognized, when the loan or finance lease becomes contractually current and/or collection doubts are removed.  Cash receipts on impaired loans or finance leases are recorded against the receivable and then to any unrecognized income. A loan or finance lease is considered impaired, based on current information and events, if it is probable that we will be unable to collect all amounts due according to the contractual terms of the loan or finance lease. We consider a loan or finance lease past due if any portion of a contractual payment is due and unpaid for more than 30 days.
	Revenues are presented net of sales and other related taxes.
	D. Depreciation
	Depreciation for equipment on operating leases is recognized using the straight-line method over the lease term, typically one to seven years.  The depreciable basis is the original cost of the equipment less the estimated residual value of the equipment at the end of the lease term.
	E. Residual Values
	The residuals for leases classified as operating leases are included in Equipment on operating leases.  The residuals for leases classified as capital leases, in accordance with lease accounting, are included in finance leases and installment sale contracts.
	During the term of the leases, residual values are monitored.  If estimated end-of-term market values of leased equipment reflect a non-temporary impairment due to economic factors, obsolescence or other adverse circumstances, the residual value of the leased equipment is adjusted so that the carrying value at end of lease term will approximate the estimated end-of-term market value. For equipment on operating leases, adjustments are made on a straight-line basis over the remaining term of the lease through depreciation expense.  For finance leases, adjustments are recognized at the time of assessment through a reduction of finance revenue.
	F. Debt Issuance Costs
	Debt issuance costs are capitalized and amortized to Interest expense over the term of the debt issue.
	G. Derivative Financial Instruments
	Our earnings and cash flows are subject to fluctuations due to changes in foreign currency exchange rates and interest rates.  Our Risk Management Policy allows for the use of derivative financial instruments to prudently manage foreign currency exchange rate and interest rate exposures and not for the purpose of creating speculative positions.  Derivatives that we use are primarily foreign currency forward, option, and cross currency contracts and interest rate swaps.  All derivatives are recorded at fair value.  See Note 9 for additional information.
	H. Allowance for Credit Losses
	The Allowance for credit losses is an estimate of the losses inherent in our finance receivable portfolio and includes consideration of accounts that have been individually identified as impaired, as well as pools of finance receivables where it is probable that certain receivables in the pool are impaired but the individual accounts cannot yet be identified.  In identifying and measuring impairment, management takes into consideration past loss experience, known and inherent risks in the portfolio, adverse situations that affect the borrower’s ability to repay, estimated value of underlying collateral and current economic conditions. In estimating probable credit losses, we review accounts that are past due, non-performing, in bankruptcy or otherwise identified as at-risk for potential credit loss including accounts which have been modified. Accounts are identified as at-risk for potential credit loss using information available about the customer, such as financial statements, news reports and published credit ratings, as well as general information regarding industry trends and the economic environment in which our customers operate.
	The Allowance for credit losses attributable to specific accounts is based on the most probable source of repayment, which is normally the liquidation of collateral. In determining collateral value, we estimate the current fair market value of the collateral less selling costs. We also consider credit enhancements such as additional collateral and contractual third-party guarantees. The Allowance for credit losses attributable to the remaining accounts not yet individually identified as impaired is estimated utilizing probabilities of default and the estimated loss given default. In addition, qualitative factors not able to be fully captured in previous analysis including industry trends, macroeconomic factors and model imprecision are considered in the evaluation of the adequacy of the Allowance for credit losses. These qualitative factors are subjective and require a degree of management judgment.
	Uncollectible receivable balances, including accrued interest, are written off against the Allowance for credit losses when the underlying collateral is repossessed or when we determine that it is probable that the receivable balance is uncollectible.  Subsequent recoveries, if any, are credited to the Allowance for credit losses when received.
	I. Income Taxes
	The Provision for income taxes is determined using the asset and liability approach.  Tax laws require items to be included in tax filings at different times than the items are reflected in the financial statements.  A current liability is recognized for the estimated taxes payable for the current year.  Deferred taxes represent the future tax consequences expected to occur when the reported amounts of assets and liabilities are recovered or paid.  Deferred taxes are adjusted for enacted changes in tax rates and tax laws.  Valuation allowances are recorded to reduce deferred tax assets when it is more likely than not that a tax benefit will not be realized.
	We join Caterpillar in the filing of a consolidated U.S. Federal income tax return and certain state income tax returns.  In accordance with our tax sharing agreement with Caterpillar, we generally pay to or receive from Caterpillar our allocated share of income taxes or credits reflected in these consolidated filings. This amount is calculated on a separate return basis by taking taxable income times the applicable statutory tax rate.
	J. Foreign Currency Translation
	Assets and liabilities of foreign subsidiaries (the majority of which use the local currency as their functional currency) are translated at current exchange rates.  The effects of translation adjustments are reported as a separate component of Accumulated other comprehensive income entitled "Foreign currency translation."  Gains and losses resulting from the remeasurement of foreign currency amounts to functional currency are included in Other income (expense) on the Consolidated Statements of Profit.
	K. Use of Estimates in the Preparation of Financial Statements
	The preparation of financial statements, in conformity with generally accepted accounting principles in the United States of America, requires management to make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts.  Significant estimates include the Allowance for credit losses, residual values for leased assets, income taxes and the assumptions used to determine the fair value of derivatives. Actual results may differ from these estimates.
	L. New Accounting Pronouncements
	Parent's accounting for the cumulative translation adjustment upon derecognition of certain subsidiaries or groups of assets within a foreign entity or of an investment in a foreign entity – In March 2013, the Financial Accounting Standards Board (FASB) issued accounting guidance on the parent's accounting for the cumulative translation adjustment (CTA) upon derecognition of certain subsidiaries or groups of assets within a foreign entity or of an investment in a foreign entity. The new standard clarifies existing guidance regarding when the CTA should be released into earnings upon various deconsolidation and consolidation transactions. The guidance was effective January 1, 2014 and did not have a material impact on our financial statements.
	Presentation of an unrecognized tax benefit when a net operating loss carryforward, a similar tax loss, or a tax credit carryforward exists – In July 2013, the FASB issued accounting guidance on the financial statement presentation of an unrecognized tax benefit when a net operating loss carryforward, a similar tax loss, or a tax credit carryforward exists.  The guidance requires an unrecognized tax benefit, or a portion of an unrecognized tax benefit, to be presented as a reduction to a deferred tax asset for a net operating loss carryforward, a similar tax loss, or a tax credit carryforward in the financial statements if available under the applicable tax jurisdiction. The guidance was effective January 1, 2014 and did not have a material impact on our financial statements.
	Reporting discontinued operations and disclosures of disposals of components of an entity – In April 2014, the FASB issued accounting guidance for determining which disposals can be presented as discontinued operations and modifies related disclosure requirements. The guidance defines a discontinued operation as a disposal of a component or group of components that is disposed of or is classified as held for sale and represents a strategic shift that has (or will have) a major effect on an entity's operations and financial results. This guidance is effective January 1, 2015. We do not expect the adoption to have a material impact on our financial statements.
	Revenue recognition – In May 2014, the FASB issued new revenue recognition guidance to provide a single, comprehensive revenue recognition model for all contracts with customers. Under the new guidance, an entity will recognize revenue to depict the transfer of promised goods or services to customers at an amount that the entity expects to be entitled to in exchange for those goods or services. A five step model has been introduced for an entity to apply when recognizing revenue. The new guidance also includes enhanced disclosure requirements and is effective January 1, 2017. Entities have the option to apply the new guidance under a retrospective approach to each prior reporting period presented, or a modified retrospective approach with the cumulative effect of initially applying the new guidance recognized at the date of initial application within the Consolidated Statement of Changes in Stockholder's Equity. We are in the process of evaluating the application and implementation of the new guidance.

Accumulated_Other_Comprehensiv

Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income/(Loss)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax [Abstract]
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income/(Loss)	ACCUMULATED OTHER COMPREHENSIVE INCOME/(LOSS)
	Comprehensive income/(loss) and its components are presented in the Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income. Changes in Accumulated other comprehensive income/(loss), net of tax, included in the Consolidated Statements of Changes in Stockholder's Equity, consisted of the following:
	(Millions of dollars)	Foreign				Derivative				Total
		currency				financial
		translation				instruments
	Balance at December 31, 2012	$	184			$	(8	)		$	176
	Other comprehensive income/(loss) before reclassifications	(62		)		(1		)		(63		)
	Amounts reclassified from accumulated other comprehensive income/(loss)	—				4				4
	Other comprehensive income/(loss)	(62		)		3				(59		)
	Balance at December 31, 2013	$	122			$	(5	)		$	117
	Other comprehensive income/(loss) before reclassifications	(481		)		(4		)		(485		)
	Amounts reclassified from accumulated other comprehensive income/(loss)	—				4				4
	Other comprehensive income/(loss)	(481		)		—				(481		)
	Balance at December 31, 2014	$	(359	)		$	(5	)		$	(364	)
	The effect of the reclassifications out of Accumulated other comprehensive income/(loss) on the Consolidated Statements of Profit during the years ended December 31, 2014 and 2013 was as follows:
	(Millions of dollars)
		Classification of		2014				2013
		income (expense)
	Foreign exchange contracts	Other income (expense)		$	—			$	—
	Interest rate contracts	Interest expense		(6		)		(6		)
	Reclassifications before tax			(6		)		(6		)
	Tax (provision) benefit			2				2
	Total reclassifications from Accumulated other comprehensive income/(loss)			$	(4	)		$	(4	)

Financing_Activities

Financing Activities	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014
Receivables [Abstract]
Financing Activities	FINANCING ACTIVITIES
	A. Contractual Maturities of Finance Receivables
	The contractual maturities and future scheduled payments of outstanding receivables, as of December 31, 2014, were:
	(Millions of dollars)
	Amounts due in		Retail				Wholesale			Retail				Wholesale			Retail			Wholesale			Total
			Installment				Installment			Finance				Finance			Notes			Notes
			Sale				Sale			Leases				Leases
			Contracts				Contracts
	2015		$	2,420			$	88		$	2,999			$	67		$	3,984		$	4,033		$	13,591
	2016		1,828				17			2,096				54			2,238			262			6,495
	2017		1,246				8			1,184				33			1,896			202			4,569
	2018		623				3			524				16			1,069			17			2,252
	2019		189				—			213				3			848			—			1,253
	Thereafter		13				—			132				2			970			—			1,117
			6,319				116			7,148				175			11,005			4,514			29,277
	Guaranteed residual value		—				—			352				69			—			—			421
	Unguaranteed residual value		—				—			636				24			—			—			660
	Less: Unearned income		(113		)		—			(639		)		(20		)	(87		)	(24		)	(883		)
	Total		$	6,206			$	116		$	7,497			$	248		$	10,918		$	4,490		$	29,475
	Less: Allowance for credit losses																						(401		)
	Total net finance receivables																						$	29,074
	Receivables generally may be repaid or refinanced without penalty prior to contractual maturity, and we also sell receivables.  Accordingly, this presentation should not be regarded as a forecast of future cash collections.
	B. Credit Quality of Financing Receivables and Allowance for Credit Losses
	We apply a systematic methodology to determine the Allowance for credit losses for finance receivables. Based upon our analysis of credit losses and risk factors, our portfolio segments are as follows:
	•	Customer - Finance receivables with retail customers.
	•	Dealer - Finance receivables with Caterpillar dealers.
	•	Caterpillar Purchased Receivables - Trade receivables purchased from Caterpillar entities.
	We further evaluate our portfolio segments by the class of finance receivables, which is defined as a level of information (below a portfolio segment) in which the finance receivables have the same initial measurement attribute and a similar method for assessing and monitoring credit risk. Typically, our finance receivables within a geographic area have similar credit risk profiles and methods for assessing and monitoring credit risk. Our classes, which align with management reporting for credit losses, are as follows:
	•	North America - Finance receivables originated in the United States or Canada.
	•	Europe - Finance receivables originated in Europe, Africa, Middle East and the Commonwealth of Independent States.
	•	Asia/Pacific - Finance receivables originated in Australia, New Zealand, China, Japan, South Korea and Southeast Asia.
	•	Mining - Finance receivables related to large mining customers worldwide.
	•	Latin America - Finance receivables originated in Central and South American countries and Mexico.
	•	Caterpillar Power Finance - Finance receivables related to marine vessels with Caterpillar engines worldwide and Caterpillar electrical power generation, gas compression and co-generation systems and non-Caterpillar equipment that is powered by these systems worldwide.
	Impaired loans and finance leases
	For all classes, a loan or finance lease is considered impaired, based on current information and events, if it is probable that we will be unable to collect all amounts due according to the contractual terms of the loan or finance lease. Loans and finance leases reviewed for impairment include loans and finance leases that are past due, non-performing or in bankruptcy. Recognition of income is suspended and the loan or finance lease is placed on non-accrual status when management determines that collection of future income is not probable (generally after 120 days past due except in locations where local regulatory requirements dictate a different method, or instances in which relevant information is known that warrants placing the loan or finance lease on non-accrual status). Accrual is resumed and previously suspended income is recognized, when the loan or finance lease becomes contractually current and/or collection doubts are removed. Cash receipts on impaired loans or finance leases are recorded against the receivable and then to any unrecognized income.
	There were no impaired loans or finance leases as of December 31, 2014, 2013 and 2012, for the Dealer and Caterpillar Purchased Receivables portfolio segments.  The average recorded investment for impaired loans and finance leases for the Dealer and Caterpillar Purchased Receivables portfolio segments was zero during 2014, 2013 and 2012.
	Individually impaired loans and finance leases for the Customer portfolio segment were as follows:
	(Millions of dollars)
			As of December 31, 2014											As of December 31, 2013
	Impaired Loans and Finance		Recorded				Unpaid			Related				Recorded			Unpaid			Related
	Leases With No Allowance		Investment				Principal			Allowance				Investment			Principal			Allowance
	Recorded						Balance										Balance
	Customer
	North America		$	14			$	14		$	—			$	23		$	22		$	—
	Europe		44				43			—				48			47			—
	Asia/Pacific		2				2			—				7			7			—
	Mining		29				29			—				134			134			—
	Latin America		34				34			—				11			11			—
	Caterpillar Power Finance		129				128			—				223			222			—
	Total		$	252			$	250		$	—			$	446		$	443		$	—
	Impaired Loans and Finance
	Leases With An Allowance
	Recorded
	Customer
	North America		$	6			$	6		$	1			$	13		$	13		$	4
	Europe		12				12			4				20			19			7
	Asia/Pacific		29				29			8				17			17			2
	Mining		138				137			9				—			—			—
	Latin America		42				42			12				33			33			9
	Caterpillar Power Finance		135				134			41				110			106			51
	Total		$	362			$	360		$	75			$	193		$	188		$	73
	Total Impaired Loans and
	Finance Leases
Customer
North America		$	20			$	20		$	1			$	36		$	35		$	4
Europe		56				55			4				68			66			7
Asia/Pacific		31				31			8				24			24			2
Mining		167				166			9				134			134			—
Latin America		76				76			12				44			44			9
Caterpillar Power Finance		264				262			41				333			328			51
Total		$	614			$	610		$	75			$	639		$	631		$	73
(Millions of dollars)
		As of December 31, 2012
Impaired Loans and Finance		Recorded				Unpaid			Related
Leases With No Allowance		Investment				Principal			Allowance
Recorded						Balance
Customer
North America		$	28			$	27		$	—
Europe		45				45			—
Asia/Pacific		2				2			—
Mining		1				1			—
Latin America		7				7			—
Caterpillar Power Finance		295				295			—
Total		$	378			$	377		$	—
Impaired Loans and Finance
Leases With An Allowance
Recorded
Customer
North America		$	25			$	23		$	7
Europe		28				26			11
Asia/Pacific		19				19			4
Mining		—				—			—
Latin America		36				36			10
Caterpillar Power Finance		113				109			24
Total		$	221			$	213		$	56
Total Impaired Loans and
Finance Leases
Customer
North America		$	53			$	50		$	7
Europe		73				71			11
Asia/Pacific		21				21			4
Mining		1				1			—
Latin America		43				43			10
Caterpillar Power Finance		408				404			24
Total		$	599			$	590		$	56
(Millions of dollars)
		Year Ended							Year Ended							Year Ended
		31-Dec-14							31-Dec-13							31-Dec-12
Impaired Loans and Finance		Average				Interest			Average				Interest			Average			Interest
Leases With No Allowance		Recorded				Income			Recorded				Income			Recorded			Income
Recorded		Investment				Recognized			Investment				Recognized			Investment			Recognized
Customer
North America		$	20			$	1		$	25			$	3		$	50		$	3
Europe		47				1			49				1			45			1
Asia/Pacific		3				—			4				—			3			—
Mining		69				3			61				3			8			—
Latin America		30				—			11				—			6			—
Caterpillar Power Finance		164				6			271				5			220			2
Total		$	333			$	11		$	421			$	12		$	332		$	6
Impaired Loans and Finance
Leases With An Allowance
Recorded
Customer
North America		$	9			$	—		$	18			$	1		$	25		$	1
Europe		21				1			22				1			27			1
Asia/Pacific		23				1			18				1			15			1
Mining		90				7			1				—			—			—
Latin America		36				1			52				2			32			2
Caterpillar Power Finance		96				2			135				1			94			—
Total		$	275			$	12		$	246			$	6		$	193		$	5
Total Impaired Loans and
Finance Leases
Customer
North America		$	29			$	1		$	43			$	4		$	75		$	4
Europe		68				2			71				2			72			2
Asia/Pacific		26				1			22				1			18			1
Mining		159				10			62				3			8			—
Latin America		66				1			63				2			38			2
Caterpillar Power Finance		260				8			406				6			314			2
Total		$	608			$	23		$	667			$	18		$	525		$	11
Non-accrual and past due loans and finance leases
For all classes, we consider a loan or finance lease past due if any portion of a contractual payment is due and unpaid for more than 30 days.  Recognition of income is suspended and the loan or finance lease is placed on non-accrual status when management determines that collection of future income is not probable (generally after 120 days past due except in locations where local regulatory requirements dictate a different method, or instances in which relevant information is known that warrants placing the loan or finance lease on non-accrual status). Accrual is resumed and previously suspended income is recognized, when the loan or finance lease becomes contractually current and/or collection doubts are removed.
As of December 31, 2014, 2013 and 2012, there were no loans or finance leases on non-accrual status for the Dealer portfolio segment. As of December 31, 2014, there was $4 million in loans or finance leases on non-accrual status for the Caterpillar Purchased Receivables portfolio segment, all of which was in the Europe finance receivable class. As of December 31, 2013 and 2012, there were no loans or finance leases on non-accrual status for the Caterpillar Purchased Receivables portfolio segment.
The investment in customer loans and finance leases on non-accrual status as of December 31, was as follows:
(Millions of dollars)
		2014				2013			2012
Customer
North America		$	27			$	26		$	59
Europe		28				28			38
Asia/Pacific		54				50			36
Mining		62				23			12
Latin America		201				210			163
Caterpillar Power Finance		96				119			220
Total		$	468			$	456		$	528
Aging related to loans and finance leases was as follows:
(Millions of dollars)
		December 31, 2014
		31-60				61-90			91+				Total			Current			Total			91+ Still
		Days				Days			Days				Past Due						Finance			Accruing
		Past Due				Past Due			Past Due										Receivables
Customer
North America		$	46			$	8		$	27			$	81		$	7,291		$	7,372		$	4
Europe		16				23			29				68			2,607			2,675			6
Asia/Pacific		29				22			69				120			2,773			2,893			16
Mining		28				—			11				39			2,084			2,123			—
Latin America		55				23			196				274			2,583			2,857			8
Caterpillar Power Finance		1				4			64				69			3,079			3,148			1
Dealer
North America		—				—			—				—			3,209			3,209			—
Europe		—				—			—				—			467			467			—
Asia/Pacific		—				—			—				—			637			637			—
Mining		—				—			—				—			3			3			—
Latin America		—				—			—				—			853			853			—
Caterpillar Power Finance		—				—			—				—			—			—			—
Caterpillar Purchased Receivables
North America		23				5			1				29			1,916			1,945			1
Europe		4				1			5				10			429			439			1
Asia/Pacific		—				—			—				—			401			401			—
Mining		—				—			—				—			—			—			—
Latin America		6				5			—				11			420			431			—
Caterpillar Power Finance		—				—			1				1			21			22			1
Total		$	208			$	91		$	403			$	702		$	28,773		$	29,475		$	38
(Millions of dollars)
		December 31, 2013
		31-60				61-90			91+				Total			Current			Total			91+ Still
		Days				Days			Days				Past Due						Finance			Accruing
		Past Due				Past Due			Past Due										Receivables
Customer
North America		$	37			$	12		$	24			$	73		$	6,507		$	6,580		$	6
Europe		26				15			29				70			2,805			2,875			8
Asia/Pacific		55				46			59				160			3,158			3,318			11
Mining		3				—			12				15			2,128			2,143			—
Latin America		54				25			196				275			2,438			2,713			5
Caterpillar Power Finance		55				30			60				145			2,946			3,091			—
Dealer
North America		—				—			—				—			3,034			3,034			—
Europe		—				—			—				—			569			569			—
Asia/Pacific		—				—			—				—			706			706			—
Mining		—				—			—				—			5			5			—
Latin America		—				—			—				—			940			940			—
Caterpillar Power Finance		—				—			—				—			—			—			—
Caterpillar Purchased Receivables
North America		26				5			2				33			1,539			1,572			2
Europe		2				1			1				4			423			427			—
Asia/Pacific		—				—			—				—			468			468			—
Mining		—				—			—				—			—			—			—
Latin America		—				—			—				—			616			616			—
Caterpillar Power Finance		—				—			1				1			8			9			1
Total		$	258			$	134		$	384			$	776		$	28,290		$	29,066		$	33
(Millions of dollars)
		December 31, 2012
		31-60				61-90			91+				Total			Current			Total			91+ Still
		Days				Days			Days				Past Due						Finance			Accruing
		Past Due				Past Due			Past Due										Receivables
Customer
North America		$	35			$	8		$	52			$	95		$	5,889		$	5,984		$	3
Europe		23				9			36				68			2,487			2,555			9
Asia/Pacific		53				19			54				126			3,343			3,469			18
Mining		—				1			12				13			1,960			1,973			—
Latin America		62				19			153				234			2,481			2,715			—
Caterpillar Power Finance		15				14			126				155			3,017			3,172			4
Dealer
North America		—				—			—				—			2,931			2,931			—
Europe		—				—			—				—			652			652			—
Asia/Pacific		—				—			—				—			945			945			—
Mining		—				—			—				—			1			1			—
Latin America		—				—			—				—			1,057			1,057			—
Caterpillar Power Finance		—				—			—				—			—			—			—
Caterpillar Purchased Receivables
North America		17				3			2				22			1,334			1,356			2
Europe		1				—			—				1			331			332			—
Asia/Pacific		—				—			—				—			868			868			—
Mining		—				—			—				—			—			—			—
Latin America		—				—			—				—			547			547			—
Caterpillar Power Finance		—				—			1				1			10			11			1
Total		$	206			$	73		$	436			$	715		$	27,853		$	28,568		$	37
Allowance for credit losses
An analysis of the Allowance for credit losses was as follows:
(Millions of dollars)
		December 31, 2014
Allowance for Credit Losses:		Customer				Dealer			Caterpillar				Total
									Purchased
									Receivables
Balance at beginning of year		$	374			$	10		$	3			$	387
Receivables written off		(146		)		—			—				(146		)
Recoveries on receivables previously written off		47				—			—				47
Provision for credit losses		136				—			—				136
Adjustment due to sale of receivables		(3		)		—			—				(3		)
Foreign currency translation adjustment		(20		)		—			—				(20		)
Balance at end of year		$	388			$	10		$	3			$	401
Individually evaluated for impairment		$	75			$	—		$	—			$	75
Collectively evaluated for impairment		313				10			3				326
Ending Balance		$	388			$	10		$	3			$	401
Recorded Investment in Finance Receivables:
Individually evaluated for impairment		$	614			$	—		$	—			$	614
Collectively evaluated for impairment		20,454				5,169			3,238				28,861
Ending Balance		$	21,068			$	5,169		$	3,238			$	29,475
(Millions of dollars)
		December 31, 2013
Allowance for Credit Losses:		Customer				Dealer			Caterpillar				Total
									Purchased
									Receivables
Balance at beginning of year		$	417			$	9		$	3			$	429
Receivables written off		(180		)		—			—				(180		)
Recoveries on receivables previously written off		56				—			—				56
Provision for credit losses		90				1			—				91
Adjustment due to sale of receivables		(3		)		—			—				(3		)
Foreign currency translation adjustment		(6		)		—			—				(6		)
Balance at end of year		$	374			$	10		$	3			$	387
Individually evaluated for impairment		$	73			$	—		$	—			$	73
Collectively evaluated for impairment		301				10			3				314
Ending Balance		$	374			$	10		$	3			$	387
Recorded Investment in Finance Receivables:
Individually evaluated for impairment		$	639			$	—		$	—			$	639
Collectively evaluated for impairment		20,081				5,254			3,092				28,427
Ending Balance		$	20,720			$	5,254		$	3,092			$	29,066
(Millions of dollars)
		December 31, 2012
Allowance for Credit Losses:		Customer				Dealer			Caterpillar				Total
									Purchased
									Receivables
Balance at beginning of year		$	362			$	6		$	3			$	371
Receivables written off		(150		)		—			—				(150		)
Recoveries on receivables previously written off		47				—			—				47
Provision for credit losses		159				3			—				162
Adjustment due to sale of receivables		(2		)		—			—				(2		)
Foreign currency translation adjustment		1				—			—				1
Balance at end of year		$	417			$	9		$	3			$	429
Individually evaluated for impairment		$	56			$	—		$	—			$	56
Collectively evaluated for impairment		361				9			3				373
Ending Balance		$	417			$	9		$	3			$	429
Recorded Investment in Finance Receivables:
Individually evaluated for impairment		$	599			$	—		$	—			$	599
Collectively evaluated for impairment		19,269				5,586			3,114				27,969
Ending Balance		$	19,868			$	5,586		$	3,114			$	28,568
Credit quality of finance receivables
The credit quality of finance receivables is reviewed on a monthly basis. Credit quality indicators include performing and non-performing. Non-performing is defined as finance receivables currently over 120 days past due and/or on non-accrual status or in bankruptcy. Finance receivables not meeting the criteria listed above are considered performing. Non-performing receivables have the highest probability for credit loss. The Allowance for credit losses attributable to non-performing receivables is based on the most probable source of repayment, which is normally the liquidation of collateral. In determining collateral value, we estimate the current fair market value of the collateral less selling costs. In addition, consideration is given to credit enhancements such as additional collateral and contractual third-party guarantees in determining the Allowance for credit losses attributable to non-performing receivables.
The recorded investment in performing and non-performing finance receivables was as follows:
(Millions of dollars)
		December 31, 2014
		Customer				Dealer			Caterpillar				Total
									Purchased
									Receivables
Performing
North America		$	7,345			$	3,209		$	1,945			$	12,499
Europe		2,647				467			435				3,549
Asia/Pacific		2,839				637			401				3,877
Mining		2,061				3			—				2,064
Latin America		2,656				853			431				3,940
Caterpillar Power Finance		3,052				—			22				3,074
Total Performing		$	20,600			$	5,169		$	3,234			$	29,003
Non-Performing
North America		$	27			$	—		$	—			$	27
Europe		28				—			4				32
Asia/Pacific		54				—			—				54
Mining		62				—			—				62
Latin America		201				—			—				201
Caterpillar Power Finance		96				—			—				96
Total Non-Performing		$	468			$	—		$	4			$	472
Total Performing and Non-Performing
North America		$	7,372			$	3,209		$	1,945			$	12,526
Europe		2,675				467			439				3,581
Asia/Pacific		2,893				637			401				3,931
Mining		2,123				3			—				2,126
Latin America		2,857				853			431				4,141
Caterpillar Power Finance		3,148				—			22				3,170
Total		$	21,068			$	5,169		$	3,238			$	29,475
(Millions of dollars)
		December 31, 2013
		Customer				Dealer			Caterpillar				Total
									Purchased
									Receivables
Performing
North America		$	6,554			$	3,034		$	1,572			$	11,160
Europe		2,847				569			427				3,843
Asia/Pacific		3,268				706			468				4,442
Mining		2,120				5			—				2,125
Latin America		2,503				940			616				4,059
Caterpillar Power Finance		2,972				—			9				2,981
Total Performing		$	20,264			$	5,254		$	3,092			$	28,610
Non-Performing
North America		$	26			$	—		$	—			$	26
Europe		28				—			—				28
Asia/Pacific		50				—			—				50
Mining		23				—			—				23
Latin America		210				—			—				210
Caterpillar Power Finance		119				—			—				119
Total Non-Performing		$	456			$	—		$	—			$	456
Total Performing and Non-Performing
North America		$	6,580			$	3,034		$	1,572			$	11,186
Europe		2,875				569			427				3,871
Asia/Pacific		3,318				706			468				4,492
Mining		2,143				5			—				2,148
Latin America		2,713				940			616				4,269
Caterpillar Power Finance		3,091				—			9				3,100
Total		$	20,720			$	5,254		$	3,092			$	29,066
(Millions of dollars)
		December 31, 2012
		Customer				Dealer			Caterpillar				Total
									Purchased
									Receivables
Performing
North America		$	5,925			$	2,931		$	1,356			$	10,212
Europe		2,517				652			332				3,501
Asia/Pacific		3,433				945			868				5,246
Mining		1,961				1			—				1,962
Latin America		2,552				1,057			547				4,156
Caterpillar Power Finance		2,952				—			11				2,963
Total Performing		$	19,340			$	5,586		$	3,114			$	28,040
Non-Performing
North America		$	59			$	—		$	—			$	59
Europe		38				—			—				38
Asia/Pacific		36				—			—				36
Mining		12				—			—				12
Latin America		163				—			—				163
Caterpillar Power Finance		220				—			—				220
Total Non-Performing		$	528			$	—		$	—			$	528
Total Performing and Non-Performing
North America		$	5,984			$	2,931		$	1,356			$	10,271
Europe		2,555				652			332				3,539
Asia/Pacific		3,469				945			868				5,282
Mining		1,973				1			—				1,974
Latin America		2,715				1,057			547				4,319
Caterpillar Power Finance		3,172				—			11				3,183
Total		$	19,868			$	5,586		$	3,114			$	28,568
Troubled debt restructurings
A restructuring of a loan or finance lease receivable constitutes a troubled debt restructuring (TDR) when the lender grants a concession it would not otherwise consider to a borrower experiencing financial difficulties. Concessions granted may include extended contract maturities, inclusion of interest only periods, below market interest rates, extended skip payment periods and reduction of principal and/or accrued interest.
TDRs are reviewed along with other receivables as part of management’s ongoing evaluation of the adequacy of the Allowance for credit losses. The Allowance for credit losses attributable to TDRs is based on the most probable source of repayment, which is normally the liquidation of collateral. In determining collateral value, we estimate the current fair market value of the collateral less selling costs. In addition, consideration is given to credit enhancements such as additional collateral and contractual third-party guarantees in determining the Allowance for credit losses attributable to TDRs.
There were no loans or finance lease receivables modified as TDRs during the years ended December 31, 2014, 2013 and 2012 for the Dealer or Caterpillar Purchased Receivables portfolio segments.
Loans and finance lease receivables in the Customer portfolio segment modified as TDRs during the years ended December 31, 2014, 2013 and 2012, were as follows:
(Dollars in millions)
		Year Ended
		31-Dec-14
		Number of			Pre-TDR			Post-TDR
		Contracts			Outstanding			Outstanding
					Recorded			Recorded
					Investment			Investment
Customer
North America		34			$	12		$	7
Europe		8			7			7
Asia/Pacific		2			—			—
Mining		51			185			176
Latin America		35			31			30
Caterpillar Power Finance(1)		18			137			139
Total(2)		148			$	372		$	359
		Year Ended
		31-Dec-13
		Number of			Pre-TDR			Post-TDR
		Contracts			Outstanding			Outstanding
					Recorded			Recorded
					Investment			Investment
Customer
North America		62			$	9		$	9
Europe		51			7			7
Asia/Pacific		3			1			1
Mining		45			123			123
Latin America		32			3			3
Caterpillar Power Finance(1)		17			153			157
Total(2)		210			$	296		$	300
		Year Ended
		31-Dec-12
		Number of			Pre-TDR			Post-TDR
		Contracts			Outstanding			Outstanding
					Recorded			Recorded
					Investment			Investment
Customer
North America		98			$	15		$	15
Europe		21			8			8
Asia/Pacific		12			3			3
Latin America		41			5			5
Caterpillar Power Finance(1)		27			253			253
Total(2)		199			$	284		$	284
(1) During the year ended December 31, 2014, no additional funds were subsequently loaned to a borrower whose terms had been modified in a TDR. During the years ended December 31, 2013 and 2012, $25 million and $24 million, respectively, of additional funds were subsequently loaned to a borrower whose terms had been modified in a TDR.  The $25 million and $24 million, respectively, of additional funds are not reflected in the tables above as no incremental modifications have been made with the borrower during the periods presented.  At December 31, 2014, there were no remaining commitments to lend additional funds to a borrower whose terms have been modified in a TDR.
(2) Modifications include extended contract maturities, inclusion of interest only periods, below market interest rates, extended skip payment periods and reduction of principal and/or accrued interest.
TDRs in the Customer portfolio segment with a payment default during the years ended December 31, 2014, 2013 and 2012, which had been modified within twelve months prior to the default date, were as follows:
(Dollars in millions)
		Year Ended						Year Ended							Year Ended
		31-Dec-14						31-Dec-13							31-Dec-12
		Number of			Post-TDR			Number of			Post-TDR				Number of		Post-TDR
		Contracts			Recorded			Contracts			Recorded				Contracts		Recorded
					Investment						Investment						Investment
Customer
North America		11			$	1		19			$	4			49		$	4
Europe		46			2			5			—				—		—
Asia/Pacific		—			—			—			—				2		1
Latin America		11			1			—			—				—		—
Caterpillar Power Finance		—			—			2			3				16		21
Total		68			$	4		26			$	7			67		$	26
C. Transfers of Receivables
Off-balance sheet managed assets
Certain finance receivables and equipment on operating leases are sold to third parties with limited or no recourse to us to mitigate the concentration of credit risk with certain customers and are generally accounted for as sales. In 2014, 2013 and 2012, we received $244 million, $243 million and $206 million, respectively, of cash proceeds and recognized pre-tax gains of $7 million, $4 million and $3 million, respectively, from the sale of such assets.  We typically maintain servicing responsibilities for these third-party assets, which totaled $316 million, $322 million and $291 million as of December 31, 2014, 2013 and 2012, respectively.  Because we do not receive a servicing fee for these assets, a servicing liability is recorded.  As of December 31, 2014, 2013 and 2012, these liabilities were $1 million, $2 million and $1 million, respectively. These assets are not available to pay our creditors.
Total off-balance sheet managed assets as of December 31, were as follows:
(Millions of dollars)
		2014				2013			2012
Retail notes receivable		$	121			$	126		$	49
Operating leases		93				61			60
Retail finance leases		59				103			116
Retail installment sale contracts		43				32			66
Total off-balance sheet managed assets		$	316			$	322		$	291
D. Purchases of Trade Receivables from Caterpillar Entities
We purchase trade receivables from Caterpillar entities at a discount. The discount is an estimate of the amount of financing revenue that would be earned at a market rate on these trade receivables over their expected life. The discount is amortized into revenue on an effective yield basis over the life of the receivables and recognized as Wholesale finance revenue. For the years ended December 31, 2014, 2013 and 2012, amortized discounts for the trade receivables were $243 million, $233 million and $241 million, respectively.  In the Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows, collection of the discount is included in investing activities as the receivables are collected.

Equipment_on_Operating_Leases

Equipment on Operating Leases	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014
Leases [Abstract]
Equipment on Operating Leases	EQUIPMENT ON OPERATING LEASES
	Components of equipment on operating leases, less accumulated depreciation as of December 31, were as follows:
	(Millions of dollars)
			2014				2013				2012
	Equipment on operating leases, at cost		$	5,273			$	5,127			$	4,421
	Less: Accumulated depreciation		(1,649		)		(1,583		)		(1,451		)
	Equipment on operating leases, net		$	3,624			$	3,544			$	2,970
	At December 31, 2014, scheduled minimum rental payments for operating leases were as follows:
	2015				2016				2017				2018		2019		Thereafter		Total
	$	904			$	587			$	333			$	166	$	63	$	15	$	2,068

Concentration_of_Credit_Risk

Concentration of Credit Risk	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014
Risks and Uncertainties [Abstract]
Concentration of Credit Risk	CONCENTRATION OF CREDIT RISK
	Financial instruments with potential credit risk consist primarily of finance receivables. Additionally, to a lesser extent, we have potential credit risk associated with counterparties to derivative contracts.
	As of December 31, 2014, 2013 and 2012, receivables from customers in construction-related industries made up approximately one-third of our total portfolio.  As of December 31, 2014, approximately 50 percent of construction-related receivables related to customers in North America. As of December 31, 2013 and 2012, approximately 40 percent of construction-related receivables related to customers in North America.  No single customer or dealer represented a significant concentration of credit risk.  We typically maintain a security interest in retail financed equipment and require physical damage insurance coverage on all financed equipment.  See Note 15 for further information concerning business segments.
	Regarding our derivative instruments, collateral is generally not required of the counterparties or of us.  We enter into International Swaps and Derivatives Association (ISDA) master netting agreements that permit the net settlement of amounts owed under their respective derivative contracts. Under these master netting agreements, net settlement generally permits us or the counterparty to determine the net amount payable for contracts due on the same date and in the same currency for similar types of derivative transactions. The master netting agreements generally also provide for net settlement of all outstanding contracts with a counterparty in the case of an event of default or a termination event. Our exposure to credit loss in the event of nonperformance by the counterparties is limited to only those gains that we have recorded, but for which we have not yet received cash payment.  The master netting agreements reduce the amount of loss the Company would incur should the counterparties fail to meet their obligations.  As of December 31, 2014, 2013 and 2012, the maximum exposure to credit loss, including accrued interest, was $123 million, $178 million and $306 million, respectively, before the application of any master netting agreements.  See Note 9 for further information concerning derivatives.

Credit_Commitments

Credit Commitments	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014
Credit Commitments [Abstract]
Credit Commitments	CREDIT COMMITMENTS
	Revolving credit facilities
	We have three global credit facilities with a syndicate of banks totaling $10.50 billion (Credit Facility) available in the aggregate to both Caterpillar and us for general liquidity purposes.  Based on management's allocation decision, which can be revised from time to time, the portion of the Credit Facility available to us as of December 31, 2014 was $7.75 billion.
	•	The 364-day facility of $3.15 billion (of which $2.33 billion is available to us) expires in September 2015.
	•	The 2010 four-year facility, as amended in September 2014, of $2.73 billion (of which $2.01 billion is available to us) expires in September 2017.
	•	The 2011 five-year facility, as amended in September 2014, of $4.62 billion (of which $3.41 billion is available to us) expires in September 2019.
	At December 31, 2014, Caterpillar’s consolidated net worth was $22.23 billion, which was above the $9.00 billion required under the Credit Facility.  The consolidated net worth is defined in the Credit Facility as the consolidated stockholders' equity including preferred stock but excluding the pension and other postretirement benefits balance within Accumulated other comprehensive income/(loss).
	At December 31, 2014, our covenant interest coverage ratio was 2.19 to 1.  This is above the 1.15 to 1 minimum ratio, calculated as (1) profit excluding income taxes, interest expense and net gain/(loss) from interest rate derivatives to (2) interest expense calculated at the end of each calendar quarter for the rolling four quarter period then most recently ended, required by the Credit Facility.
	In addition, at December 31, 2014, our six-month covenant leverage ratio was 7.79 to 1 and our year-end covenant leverage ratio was 7.83 to 1.  This is below the maximum ratio of debt to net worth of 10 to 1, calculated (1) on a monthly basis as the average of the leverage ratios determined on the last day of each of the six preceding calendar months and (2) at each December 31, required by the Credit Facility.
	In the event that either Caterpillar or we do not meet one or more of our respective financial covenants under the Credit Facility in the future (and are unable to obtain a consent or waiver), the syndicate of banks may terminate the commitments allocated to the party that does not meet its covenants.  Additionally, in such event, certain of our other lenders under other loan agreements where similar financial covenants or cross default provisions are applicable, may, at their election, choose to pursue remedies under those loan agreements, including accelerating the repayment of outstanding borrowings.  At December 31, 2014, there were no borrowings under the Credit Facility.
	Bank borrowings
	Credit lines with banks as of December 31, 2014 totaled $4.06 billion.  These committed and uncommitted credit lines, which may be eligible for renewal at various future dates or have no specified expiration date, are used primarily by our non-U.S. subsidiaries for local funding requirements.  The remaining available credit commitments may be withdrawn any time at the lenders' discretion.  As of December 31, 2014, we had $1.90 billion outstanding against these credit lines compared with $2.03 billion as of December 31, 2013, and were in compliance with all debt covenants under these credit lines.
	Variable denomination floating rate demand notes
	We obtain funding from the sale of variable denomination floating rate demand notes, which may be redeemed at any time at the option of the holder without any material restriction.  We do not hold reserves to fund the payment of the demand notes.  The notes are offered on a continuous basis by prospectus only.
	Notes receivable from/payable to Caterpillar
	Under our variable amount lending agreements and other notes receivable with Caterpillar, we may borrow up to $2.31 billion from Caterpillar and Caterpillar may borrow up to $1.29 billion from us.  The agreements are in effect for indefinite periods of time and may be changed or terminated by either party with 30 days notice.  We had notes receivable of $414 million and notes payable of $1.11 billion outstanding under these agreements as of December 31, 2014, compared with notes receivable of $345 million and notes payable of $1.12 billion as of December 31, 2013.
	Committed credit facility
	We extended a $2 billion committed credit facility to Caterpillar, which expires in February 2019.  We receive a fee from Caterpillar based on amounts drawn under the credit facility and a commitment fee for the undrawn amounts under the credit facility.  At December 31, 2014, there were no borrowings under this credit facility.

ShortTerm_Borrowings

Short-Term Borrowings	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014
Short-term Debt [Abstract]
Short-Term Borrowings	SHORT-TERM BORROWINGS
	Short-term borrowings outstanding as of December 31, were comprised of the following:
	(Millions of dollars)
		2014			2013			2012
		Balance		Avg. Rate	Balance		Avg. Rate	Balance		Avg. Rate
	Commercial paper, net	$	3,688	0.30%	$	2,502	0.50%	$	3,654	0.60%
	Bank borrowings	411		6.80%	545		6.40%	418		5.60%
	Variable denomination floating	600		0.80%	616		0.80%	579		0.80%
	rate demand notes
	Total	$	4,699		$	3,663		$	4,651

LongTerm_Debt

Long-Term Debt	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014
Long-term Debt, Unclassified [Abstract]
Long-Term Debt	LONG-TERM DEBT
	During 2014, we issued $5.84 billion of medium-term notes, of which $4.46 billion were at fixed interest rates and $1.38 billion were at floating interest rates, primarily indexed to LIBOR.  At December 31, 2014, the outstanding medium-term notes had remaining maturities ranging up to 12 years.
	Long-term debt outstanding as of December 31, was comprised of the following:
	(Millions of dollars)
			2014				2013				2012
			Balance			Avg. Rate	Balance			Avg. Rate	Balance			Avg. Rate
	Medium-term notes		$	23,094		2.40%	$	23,854		2.80%	$	23,500		3.20%
	Unamortized discount		(4		)		(8		)		(13		)
	Medium-term notes, net		23,090				23,846				23,487
	Bank borrowings		1,484			3.40%	1,483			3.20%	1,602			4.10%
	Total		$	24,574			$	25,329			$	25,089
	Long-term debt outstanding as of December 31, 2014, matures as follows:
	(Millions of dollars)
	2015	$	6,283
	2016	5,507
	2017	5,487
	2018	2,411
	2019	2,381
	Thereafter	2,505
	Total	$	24,574

Derivative_Financial_Instrumen

Derivative Financial Instruments and Risk Management	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014
Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities Disclosure [Abstract]
Derivative Financial Instruments and Risk Management	DERIVATIVE FINANCIAL INSTRUMENTS AND RISK MANAGEMENT
	Our earnings and cash flow are subject to fluctuations due to changes in foreign currency exchange rates and interest rates.  Our Risk Management Policy (policy) allows for the use of derivative financial instruments to prudently manage foreign currency exchange rate and interest rate exposures.  Our policy specifies that derivatives are not to be used for speculative purposes.  Derivatives that we use are primarily foreign currency forward, option and cross currency contracts and interest rate swaps.  Our derivative activities are subject to the management, direction and control of our senior financial officers.  Risk management practices, including the use of financial derivative instruments, are presented to our Board of Directors and the Audit Committee of the Caterpillar Inc. Board of Directors at least annually.
	All derivatives are recognized on the Consolidated Statements of Financial Position at their fair value.  On the date the derivative contract is entered into, the derivative instrument is (1) designated as a hedge of the fair value of a recognized asset or liability (fair value hedge), (2) designated as a hedge of a forecasted transaction or the cash flow variability associated with variable-rate debt (cash flow hedge) or (3) undesignated.  Changes in the fair value of a derivative that is qualified, designated and highly effective as a fair value hedge, along with the gain or loss on the hedged recognized asset or liability that is attributable to the hedged risk, are recorded in current earnings.  Changes in the fair value of a derivative that is qualified, designated and highly effective as a cash flow hedge are recorded in Accumulated other comprehensive income/(loss) (AOCI), to the extent effective, on the Consolidated Statements of Financial Position until they are reclassified to earnings in the same period or periods during which the hedged transaction affects earnings.  Changes in the fair value of undesignated derivative instruments and the ineffective portion of designated derivative instruments are reported in current earnings.  Cash flows from designated derivative financial instruments are classified within the same category as the item being hedged on the Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows.  Cash flows from undesignated derivative financial instruments are included in the investing category on the Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows.
	We formally document all relationships between hedging instruments and hedged items, as well as the risk-management objective and strategy for undertaking various hedge transactions.  This process includes linking all derivatives that are designated as fair value hedges to specific assets and liabilities on the Consolidated Statements of Financial Position and linking cash flow hedges to specific forecasted transactions or variability of cash flow.
	We also formally assess, both at the hedge’s inception and on an ongoing basis, whether the designated derivatives that are used in hedging transactions are highly effective in offsetting changes in fair value or cash flow of hedged items.  When a derivative is determined not to be highly effective as a hedge or the underlying hedged transaction is no longer probable, we discontinue hedge accounting prospectively, in accordance with derecognition criteria for hedge accounting.
	Foreign currency exchange rate risk
	We have net foreign currency balance sheet positions and expected future transactions denominated in foreign currencies, thereby creating exposure to movements in foreign exchange rates. In managing foreign currency risk, our objective is to minimize earnings volatility resulting from conversion and the remeasurement of net foreign currency balance sheet positions and expected future transactions denominated in foreign currencies.  Our policy allows the use of foreign currency forward, option and cross currency contracts to offset the risk of currency mismatch between our assets and liabilities and exchange rate risk associated with expected future transactions denominated in foreign currencies.  Substantially all such foreign currency forward, option and cross currency contracts are undesignated.
	Interest rate risk
	Interest rate movements create a degree of risk by affecting the amount of our interest payments and the value of our fixed-rate debt.  Our practice is to use interest rate swaps to manage our exposure to interest rate changes and, in some cases, to lower the cost of borrowed funds.
	We have a match-funding policy that addresses interest rate risk by aligning the interest rate profile (fixed or floating rate) of our debt portfolio with the interest rate profile of our receivables portfolio within predetermined ranges on an ongoing basis.  In connection with that policy, we use interest rate derivative instruments to modify the debt structure to match assets within the receivables portfolio.  This matched funding reduces the volatility of margins between interest-bearing assets and interest-bearing liabilities, regardless of which direction interest rates move.
	Our policy allows us to use fixed-to-floating, floating-to-fixed and floating-to-floating interest rate swaps to meet the match-funding objective.  We designate fixed-to-floating interest rate swaps as fair value hedges to protect debt against changes in fair value due to changes in the benchmark interest rate.  We designate most floating-to-fixed interest rate swaps as cash flow hedges to protect against the variability of cash flows due to changes in the benchmark interest rate.
	As of December 31, 2014, $1 million of deferred net losses, net of tax, included in equity (AOCI in the Consolidated Statements of Financial Position), related to our floating-to-fixed interest rate swaps, are expected to be reclassified to Interest expense over the next twelve months.  The actual amount recorded in Interest expense will vary based on interest rates at the time the hedged transactions impact earnings.
	We have, at certain times, liquidated fixed-to-floating interest rate swaps that resulted in deferred gains at the time of liquidation.  The deferred gains associated with these interest rate swaps are included in Long-term debt in the Consolidated Statements of Financial Position and are being amortized to Interest expense over the remaining term of the previously designated hedged item.
	The location and fair value of derivative instruments reported in the Consolidated Statements of Financial Position were as follows:
	(Millions of dollars)
					Asset (Liability) Fair Value
					December 31,
			Consolidated Statements of		2014				2013				2012
			Financial Position Location
	Designated derivatives
	Interest rate contracts		Other assets		$	79			$	122			$	226
	Interest rate contracts		Accrued expenses		(8		)		(6		)		(8		)
					$	71			$	116			$	218
	Undesignated derivatives
	Foreign exchange contracts		Other assets		$	5			$	7			$	10
	Foreign exchange contracts		Accrued expenses		(15		)		(4		)		(5		)
	Cross currency contracts		Other assets		17				9				—
	Cross currency contracts		Accrued expenses		—				—				(1		)
	Interest rate contracts		Other assets		—				—				2
	Interest rate contracts		Accrued expenses		—				—				(1		)
					$	7			$	12			$	5
	The total notional amounts of derivative instruments was $5.25 billion, $6.74 billion and $9.82 billion as of December 31, 2014, 2013, and 2012, respectively. The notional amounts of derivative financial instruments do not represent amounts exchanged by the parties. The amounts exchanged by the parties are calculated by reference to the notional amounts and by other terms of the derivatives, such as foreign currency exchange rates and interest rates.
	For the years ended December 31, 2014, 2013 and 2012, the deferred gains (losses) recorded in AOCI on the Consolidated Statements of Changes in Stockholder’s Equity associated with our cash flow interest rate contract hedges were as follows:
	(Millions of dollars)
	Balance as of December 31, 2013, net of tax of $3	$	(5	)
	Gains (losses) deferred during the year, net of tax of $2	(4		)
	(Gains) losses reclassified to earnings, net of tax of $2	4
	Balance as of December 31, 2014, net of tax of $3	$	(5	)
	(Millions of dollars)
	Balance as of December 31, 2012, net of tax of $4	$	(8	)
	Gains (losses) deferred during the year, net of tax of $1	(1		)
	(Gains) losses reclassified to earnings, net of tax of $2	4
	Balance as of December 31, 2013, net of tax of $3	$	(5	)
	(Millions of dollars)
	Balance as of December 31, 2011, net of tax of $3	$	(6	)
	Gains (losses) deferred during the year, net of tax of $0	1
	(Gains) losses reclassified to earnings, net of tax of $(1)	(3		)
	Balance as of December 31, 2012, net of tax of $4	$	(8	)
	The effect of derivatives designated as hedging instruments on the Consolidated Statements of Profit was as follows:
	Fair Value Hedges
	(Millions of dollars)
					Year Ended December 31, 2014
			Classification		Gains (Losses)				Gains (Losses)
					on Derivatives				on Borrowings
	Interest rate contracts		Other income (expense)		$	(41	)		$	40
					Year Ended December 31, 2013
			Classification		Gains (Losses)				Gains (Losses)
					on Derivatives				on Borrowings
	Interest rate contracts		Other income (expense)		$	(107	)		$	109
					Year Ended December 31, 2012
			Classification		Gains (Losses)				Gains (Losses)
					on Derivatives				on Borrowings
	Interest rate contracts		Other income (expense)		$	(20	)		$	27
	Cash Flow Hedges
(Millions of dollars)
				Year Ended December 31, 2014
		Classification		Reclassified from AOCI				Recognized in Earnings
				to Earnings				(Ineffective Portion)
				(Effective Portion)
Interest rate contracts		Interest expense		$	(6	)		$	—
Interest rate contracts		Other income (expense)		—				—
				$	(6	)		$	—
				Year Ended December 31, 2013
		Classification		Reclassified from AOCI				Recognized in Earnings
				to Earnings				(Ineffective Portion)
				(Effective Portion)
Interest rate contracts		Interest expense		$	(6	)		$	—
Interest rate contracts		Other income (expense)		—				1
				$	(6	)		$	1
				Year Ended December 31, 2012
		Classification		Reclassified from AOCI				Recognized in Earnings
				to Earnings				(Ineffective Portion)
				(Effective Portion)
Interest rate contracts		Interest expense		$	4			$	—
Interest rate contracts		Other income (expense)		—				(1		)
				$	4			$	(1	)
The effect of derivatives not designated as hedging instruments on the Consolidated Statements of Profit was as follows for the years ended December 31:
Undesignated Derivatives
(Millions of dollars)
		Classification		2014				2013				2012
Foreign exchange contracts		Other income (expense)		$	(49	)		$	3			$	7
Cross currency contracts		Other income (expense)		2				5				(1		)
Interest rate contracts		Other income (expense)		—				(3		)		—
				$	(47	)		$	5			$	6
Balance sheet offsetting
We enter into International Swaps and Derivatives Association (ISDA) master netting agreements that permit the net settlement of amounts owed under their respective derivative contracts. Under these master netting agreements, net settlement generally permits us or the counterparty to determine the net amount payable for contracts due on the same date and in the same currency for similar types of derivative transactions. The master netting agreements generally also provide for net settlement of all outstanding contracts with a counterparty in the case of an event of default or a termination event.
Collateral is generally not required of the counterparties or us under the master netting agreements. As of December 31, 2014, 2013 and 2012, no cash collateral was received or pledged under the master netting agreements.
The effect of net settlement provisions of the master netting agreements on our derivative balances upon an event of default or a termination event as of December 31, was as follows:
Offsetting of Derivative Assets and Liabilities
(Millions of dollars)
			2014				2013				2012
Derivative Assets
Gross Amount of Recognized Assets			$	101			$	138			$	238
Gross Amounts Offset			—				—				—
Net Amount of Assets(1)			101				138				238
Gross Amounts Not Offset			(8		)		(9		)		(12		)
Net Amount			$	93			$	129			$	226
Derivative Liabilities
Gross Amount of Recognized Liabilities			$	(23	)		$	(10	)		$	(15	)
Gross Amounts Offset			—				—				—
Net Amount of Liabilities(1)			(23		)		(10		)		(15		)
Gross Amounts Not Offset			8				9				12
Net Amount			$	(15	)		$	(1	)		$	(3	)
(1) As presented in the Consolidated Statements of Financial Position.

Commitments_and_Contingent_Lia

Commitments and Contingent Liabilities	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014
Commitments and Contingencies Disclosure [Abstract]
Commitments and Contingent Liabilities	COMMITMENTS AND CONTINGENT LIABILITIES
	We provide loan guarantees to third-party lenders for financing associated with machinery purchased by customers.  These guarantees have varying terms and are secured by the machinery being financed.  In addition, we participate in standby letters of credit issued to third parties on behalf of our customers.  These standby letters of credit have varying terms and beneficiaries and are secured by customer assets.
	No significant loss has been experienced or is anticipated under any of these guarantees.  At December 31, 2014, 2013 and 2012, the related liability was $1 million, $1 million and $2 million, respectively.  The maximum potential amount of future payments (undiscounted and without reduction for any amounts that may possibly be recovered under recourse or collateralized provisions) we could be required to make under the guarantees was $42 million, $55 million and $61 million, at December 31, 2014, 2013 and 2012, respectively.
	We provide guarantees to repurchase certain loans of Caterpillar dealers from a special purpose corporation (SPC) that qualifies as a VIE (see Note 1 for additional information regarding the accounting guidance on the consolidation of VIEs).  The purpose of the SPC is to provide short-term working capital loans to Caterpillar dealers.  This SPC issues commercial paper and uses the proceeds to fund its loan program.  We have a loan purchase agreement with the SPC that obligates us to purchase certain loans that are not paid at maturity.  We receive a fee for providing this guarantee, which provides a source of liquidity for the SPC.  We are the primary beneficiary of the SPC as our guarantees result in us having both the power to direct the activities that most significantly impact the SPC's economic performance and the obligation to absorb losses and therefore we have consolidated the financial statements of the SPC.  As of December 31, 2014, 2013 and 2012, the SPC’s assets of $1.09 billion, $1.01 billion and $927 million, respectively, are primarily comprised of loans to dealers, which are included in Retail notes receivable in the Consolidated Statements of Financial Position, and the SPC's liabilities of $1.08 billion, $1.01 billion and $927 million, respectively, are primarily comprised of commercial paper, which is included in Short-term borrowings in the Consolidated Statements of Financial Position.  The assets of the SPC are not available to pay our creditors. We may be obligated to perform under the guarantee if the SPC experiences losses. No loss has been experienced or is anticipated under this loan purchase agreement.
	We are party to agreements in the normal course of business with selected customers and Caterpillar dealers in which we commit to provide a set dollar amount of financing on a pre-approved basis.  We also provide lines of credit to certain customers and Caterpillar dealers, of which a portion remains unused as of the end of the period.  Commitments and lines of credit generally have fixed expiration dates or other termination clauses.  It has been our experience that not all commitments and lines of credit will be used.  Management applies the same credit policies when making commitments and granting lines of credit as it does for any other financing.  We do not require collateral for these commitments/lines, but if credit is extended, collateral may be required upon funding.  As of December 31, 2014, 2013 and 2012, the amount of the unused commitments and lines of credit for dealers was $12.55 billion, $10.63 billion and $10.97 billion, respectively.  As of December 31, 2014, 2013 and 2012, the amount of the unused commitments and lines of credit for customers was $4.00 billion, $4.64 billion and $4.69 billion, respectively.
	We are involved in unresolved legal actions that arise in the normal course of business. Although it is not possible to predict with certainty the outcome of our unresolved legal actions, we believe that these unresolved legal actions will neither individually nor in the aggregate have a material adverse effect on our consolidated financial position, liquidity or results of operations.

Income_Taxes

Income Taxes	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014
Income Tax Disclosure [Abstract]
Income Taxes	INCOME TAXES
	The components of Profit before income taxes for the years ended December 31, were as follows:
	(Millions of dollars)
			2014				2013				2012
	U.S.		$	207			$	91			$	31
	Non-U.S.		546				603				553
	Total		$	753			$	694			$	584
	Profit before income taxes, as shown above, is based on the location of the entity to which such earnings are attributable.  Where an entity’s earnings are subject to taxation, however, may not correlate solely to where an entity is located.  For example, the profit before tax reported in the United States may be subject to tax by non-U.S. jurisdictions and profit before tax outside the United States may be subject to tax in the United States. Thus, the income tax provision shown below as U.S. or non-U.S. may not correspond to the earnings shown above.
	The components of the Provision for income taxes were as follows for the years ended December 31:
	(Millions of dollars)
			2014				2013				2012
	Current income tax provision (benefit):
	U.S.		$	14			$	(14	)		$	14
	Non-U.S.		138				183				179
	State (U.S.)		(1		)		—				(2		)
			151				169				191
	Deferred income tax provision (benefit):
	U.S.		44				17				(16		)
	Non-U.S.		13				(18		)		(27		)
	State (U.S.)		1				(1		)		(3		)
			58				(2		)		(46		)
	Total Provision for income taxes		$	209			$	167			$	145
	Current income tax provision is the amount of income taxes reported or expected to be reported on our income tax returns.  We join Caterpillar in the filing of a consolidated U.S. Federal income tax return and certain state income tax returns.  In accordance with our tax sharing agreement with Caterpillar, we generally pay to or receive from Caterpillar our allocated share of income taxes or credits reflected in these consolidated filings. This amount is calculated on a separate return basis by taking taxable income times the applicable statutory tax rate.
	The actual Provision for income taxes differs from the Provision for income taxes that would result from applying the U.S. statutory rate to Profit before income taxes for the years ended December 31, for the reasons set forth in the following reconciliation:
	(Millions of dollars)
			2014							2013						2012
	Taxes computed at U.S. statutory rates		$	264			35	%		$	243			35	%	$	204		35	%
	(Decreases) increases in taxes resulting from:
	State Income Tax, net of Federal Tax		—				—	%		(1		)		(0.1	)%	(3		)	(0.5	)%
	Subsidiaries' results subject to tax rates other than		(53		)		(7.0	)%		(68		)		(9.8	)%	(50		)	(8.6	)%
	U.S. statutory rates
	Other, net		(2		)		(0.2	)%		(7		)		(1.0	)%	(6		)	(1.0	)%
	Provision for income taxes		$	209			27.8	%		$	167			24.1	%	$	145		24.9	%
	We have recorded income tax expense at U.S. tax rates on all profits, except for undistributed profits of non-U.S. subsidiaries of approximately $2 billion, which are considered indefinitely reinvested.  Determination of the amount of unrecognized deferred income tax liability related to indefinitely reinvested profits is not feasible. If U.S. tax law changes in the future, there may be a significant negative impact on the provision for income taxes to record an incremental tax liability in the period the change occurs.
	Accounting for income taxes under generally accepted accounting principles in the United States of America requires individual tax-paying entities of the Company to offset deferred income tax assets and liabilities within each particular tax jurisdiction and present them as a single amount in the Consolidated Statements of Financial Position.  Amounts in different tax jurisdictions cannot be offset against each other.  The amounts of deferred income taxes at December 31, included in the following lines in our Consolidated Statements of Financial Position were:
	(Millions of dollars)
			2014				2013				2012
	Assets:
	Deferred and refundable income taxes		$	94			$	103			$	104
	Liabilities:
	Deferred income taxes and other liabilities		(668		)		(500		)		(535		)
	Deferred income taxes, net		$	(574	)		$	(397	)		$	(431	)
	Differences between accounting rules and income tax laws cause differences between the bases of certain assets and liabilities for financial reporting and income tax purposes.  The income tax effects of these differences, to the extent they are temporary, are recorded as deferred income tax assets and liabilities netted by tax jurisdiction and taxpayer.
	Our consolidated deferred income taxes consisted of the following components as of December 31:
	(Millions of dollars)
			2014				2013				2012
	Deferred tax assets:
	Allowance for credit losses		$	149			$	144			$	159
	Net operating loss carryforwards		46				56				59
			195				200				218
	Deferred income tax liabilities (primarily lease basis differences)		(514		)		(455		)		(467		)
	Valuation allowance for deferred income tax assets		(3		)		(9		)		(9		)
	Deferred income tax on translation adjustment		(252		)		(133		)		(173		)
	Deferred income taxes, net		$	(574	)		$	(397	)		$	(431	)
	As of December 31, 2014, amounts and expiration dates of net operating loss (NOL) carryforwards in various U.S. state taxing jurisdictions were:
	(Millions of dollars)
	2015				2016				2017				2018			2019-2030			Total
	$	—			$	—			$	—			$	6		$	130		$	136
	The gross deferred income tax asset associated with these NOL carryforwards is $11 million as of December 31, 2014, partially offset by a valuation allowance of less than $1 million.  The valuation allowance indicates the loss carryforwards are likely to expire prior to utilization.
	In some U.S. state income tax jurisdictions, we join with other Caterpillar entities in filing combined income tax returns.  In other U.S. state income tax jurisdictions, we file on a separate, stand-alone basis.
	As of December 31, 2014, amounts and expiration dates of NOL carryforwards in various non-U.S. taxing jurisdictions were:
	(Millions of dollars)
	2015				2016				2017				2018			2019-2030			Unlimited		Total
	$	3			$	1			$	—			$	—		$	14		$	139	$	157
Valuation allowances totaling $2 million have been recorded at certain non-U.S. subsidiaries that have not yet demonstrated consistent and/or sustainable profitability to support the recognition of net deferred income tax assets.
A reconciliation of the beginning and ending amounts of gross unrecognized income tax benefits for uncertain income tax positions, including positions impacting only the timing of income tax benefits was as follows:
(Millions of dollars)
		2014				2013				2012
Reconciliation of unrecognized income tax benefits(1):
Balance at beginning of year		$	—			$	2			$	—
Additions for income tax positions related to prior year		—				—				2
Reductions for income tax positions related to settlements(2)		—				(2		)		—
Balance at end of year		$	—			$	—			$	2
Amount that, if recognized, would impact the effective tax rate		$	—			$	—			$	2
(1) Foreign currency translation amounts are included within each line as applicable.
(2) Includes cash payment or other reduction of assets to settle liability.
We classify interest and penalties on income taxes as a component of the Provision for income taxes.  During the years ended December 31, 2014, 2013 and 2012, we recognized a benefit of less than $1 million, a benefit of less than $1 million and a benefit of $5 million in interest and penalties, respectively.  As of December 31, 2014, 2013 and 2012, the total amount of accrued interest and penalties was less than $1 million.
It is reasonably possible that the amount of unrecognized income tax benefits will change in the next 12 months.  On January 30, 2015, Caterpillar received a Revenue Agent's Report (RAR) from the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) indicating the end of field examination of our U.S. tax returns for 2007 to 2009. In the opinion of management, the ultimate disposition of the matters raised in this report will not have a material adverse effect on our financial position, liquidity or results of operations. We expect the IRS field examination of our U.S. tax returns for 2010 to 2012 to begin in 2015.
In our major non-U.S. jurisdictions, tax years are typically subject to examination for three to six years.

Fair_Value_Measurements

Fair Value Measurements	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014
Fair Value Disclosures [Abstract]
Fair Value Measurements	FAIR VALUE MEASUREMENTS
	A.	Fair Value Measurements
	The guidance on fair value measurements defines fair value as the exchange price that would be received for an asset or paid to transfer a liability (an exit price) in the principal or most advantageous market for the asset or liability in an orderly transaction between market participants.  This guidance also specifies a fair value hierarchy based upon the observability of inputs used in valuation techniques.  Observable inputs (highest level) reflect market data obtained from independent sources, while unobservable inputs (lowest level) reflect internally developed market assumptions.  In accordance with this guidance, fair value measurements are classified under the following hierarchy:
	•	Level 1 – Quoted prices for identical instruments in active markets.
	•	Level 2 – Quoted prices for similar instruments in active markets; quoted prices for identical or similar instruments in markets that are not active; and model-derived valuations in which all significant inputs or significant value-drivers are observable in active markets.
	•	Level 3 – Model-derived valuations in which one or more significant inputs or significant value-drivers are unobservable.
	When available, we use quoted market prices to determine fair value and we classify such measurements within Level 1. In some cases where market prices are not available, we make use of observable market-based inputs to calculate fair value, in which case the measurements are classified within Level 2.  If quoted or observable market prices are not available, fair value is based upon internally developed models that use, where possible, current market-based parameters such as interest rates, yield curves and currency rates.  These measurements are classified within Level 3.
	Fair value measurements are classified according to the lowest level input or value-driver that is significant to the valuation.  A measurement may therefore be classified within Level 3 even though there may be significant inputs that are readily observable.
	Fair value measurement includes the consideration of nonperformance risk.  Nonperformance risk refers to the risk that an obligation (either by a counterparty or us) will not be fulfilled.  For financial assets traded in an active market (Level 1), the nonperformance risk is included in the market price.  For certain other financial assets and liabilities (Level 2 and 3), our fair value calculations have been adjusted accordingly.
	Derivative financial instruments
	The fair value of interest rate swap derivatives is primarily based on standard industry accepted models that utilize the appropriate market-based forward swap curves and zero-coupon interest rates to determine discounted cash flows.  The fair value of foreign currency forward and cross currency contracts is based on a standard industry accepted valuation model that discounts cash flows resulting from the differential between the contract price and the market-based forward rate.
	Guarantees
	The fair value of guarantees is based on our estimate of the premium a market participant would require to issue the same guarantee in a stand-alone, arms-length transaction with an unrelated party.  If quoted or observable market prices are not available, fair value is based upon internally developed models that utilize current market-based assumptions.
	Assets and liabilities measured on a recurring basis at fair value included in our Consolidated Statements of Financial Position are summarized below:
	(Millions of dollars)
			December 31, 2014
			Level 1			Level 2			Level 3			Total Assets/Liabilities,
												at Fair Value
	Assets
	Derivative financial instruments, net		$	—		$	78		$	—		$	78
	Total Assets		$	—		$	78		$	—		$	78
	Liabilities
	Guarantees		$	—		$	—		$	1		$	1
	Total Liabilities		$	—		$	—		$	1		$	1
			December 31, 2013
			Level 1			Level 2			Level 3			Total Assets/Liabilities,
												at Fair Value
	Assets
	Derivative financial instruments, net		$	—		$	128		$	—		$	128
	Total Assets		$	—		$	128		$	—		$	128
	Liabilities
	Guarantees		$	—		$	—		$	1		$	1
	Total Liabilities		$	—		$	—		$	1		$	1
			December 31, 2012
			Level 1			Level 2			Level 3			Total Assets/Liabilities,
												at Fair Value
	Assets
	Derivative financial instruments, net		$	—		$	223		$	—		$	223
	Total Assets		$	—		$	223		$	—		$	223
	Liabilities
	Guarantees		$	—		$	—		$	2		$	2
	Total Liabilities		$	—		$	—		$	2		$	2
	Below are roll-forwards of assets and liabilities measured at fair value using Level 3 inputs for the years ended December 31, 2014, 2013 and 2012.  These instruments were valued using pricing models that, in management’s judgment, reflect the assumptions of a marketplace participant.
	(Millions of dollars)	Guarantees
	Balance as of December 31, 2011	$	2
	Issuance of guarantees	2
	Expiration of guarantees	(2		)
	Balance as of December 31, 2012	$	2
	Issuance of guarantees	2
	Expiration of guarantees	(3		)
	Balance as of December 31, 2013	$	1
	Issuance of guarantees	1
	Expiration of guarantees	(1		)
	Balance as of December 31, 2014	$	1
	Impaired loans
	In addition to the amounts above, our impaired loans are subject to measurement at fair value on a nonrecurring basis. A loan is considered impaired when management determines that collection of contractual amounts due is not probable. In these cases, an Allowance for credit losses may be established based primarily on the fair value of associated collateral. As the collateral's fair value is based on observable market prices and/or current appraised values, the impaired loans are classified as Level 2 measurements. We had impaired loans carried at the fair value of the underlying collateral value of $248 million, $88 million and $122 million as of December 31, 2014, 2013 and 2012, respectively.
	B.	Fair Values of Financial Instruments
	In addition to the methods and assumptions we use to record the fair value of financial instruments as discussed in the Fair Value Measurements section above, we used the following methods and assumptions to estimate the fair value of our financial instruments.
	Cash and cash equivalents – carrying amount approximated fair value.
	Finance receivables, net – fair value was estimated by discounting the future cash flows using current rates representative of receivables with similar remaining maturities.
	Restricted cash and cash equivalents – carrying amount approximated fair value.
	Short-term borrowings – carrying amount approximated fair value.
	Long-term debt – fair value for fixed and floating-rate debt was estimated based on quoted market prices.
	Please refer to the table below for the fair values of our financial instruments.
(Millions of dollars)		2014						2013						2012
		Carrying			Fair			Carrying			Fair			Carrying			Fair			Fair	Reference
		Amount			Value			Amount			Value			Amount			Value			Value
																				Levels
Cash and cash equivalents		$	857		$	857		$	1,320		$	1,320		$	2,080		$	2,080		1
Foreign currency contracts:
In a receivable position		$	5		$	5		$	7		$	7		$	10		$	10		2	Note 9
In a payable position		$	(15	)	$	(15	)	$	(4	)	$	(4	)	$	(5	)	$	(5	)	2	Note 9
Cross currency contracts
In a receivable position		$	17		$	17		$	9		$	9		$	—		$	—		2	Note 9
In a payable position		$	—		$	—		$	—		$	—		$	(1	)	$	(1	)	2	Note 9
Finance receivables, net		$	21,434		$	21,093		$	20,657		$	20,459		$	20,065		$	19,956		3	Note 3
(excluding finance leases(1))
Restricted cash and cash equivalents(2)		$	11		$	11		$	17		$	17		$	19		$	19		1
Short-term borrowings		$	(4,699	)	$	(4,699	)	$	(3,663	)	$	(3,663	)	$	(4,651	)	$	(4,651	)	1	Note 7
Long-term debt		$	(24,574	)	$	(25,103	)	$	(25,329	)	$	(25,849	)	$	(25,089	)	$	(26,063	)	2	Note 8
Interest rate swaps:
In a net receivable position		$	79		$	79		$	122		$	122		$	228		$	228		2	Note 9
In a net payable position		$	(8	)	$	(8	)	$	(6	)	$	(6	)	$	(9	)	$	(9	)	2	Note 9
Guarantees		$	(1	)	$	(1	)	$	(1	)	$	(1	)	$	(2	)	$	(2	)	3	Note 10
(1) As of December 31, 2014, 2013 and 2012, represents finance leases with a net carrying value of $7.64 billion, $8.02 billion and $8.07 billion, respectively.
(2) Included in Other assets in the Consolidated Statements of Financial Position.

Transactions_with_Related_Part

Transactions with Related Parties	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014
Related Party Transactions [Abstract]
Transactions with Related Parties	TRANSACTIONS WITH RELATED PARTIES
	We have a Support Agreement with Caterpillar, which provides that Caterpillar will (1) remain, directly or indirectly, our sole owner; (2) cause us to maintain a tangible net worth of at least $20 million and (3) ensure that we maintain a ratio of profit before income taxes and interest expense to interest expense (as defined by the Support Agreement) of not less than 1.15 to 1, calculated on an annual basis. Although this agreement can be modified by agreement or terminated by either party, any termination or any modification which would adversely affect holders of our debt requires the consent of holders of 66-2/3 percent in principal amount of outstanding debt of each series so affected.  Any modification or termination which would adversely affect the lenders under the Credit Facility requires their consent.  Caterpillar's obligation under this agreement is not directly enforceable by any of our creditors and does not constitute a guarantee of any of our obligations.  A cash dividend of $400 million, $200 million and $250 million was paid to Caterpillar in 2014, 2013 and 2012, respectively.
	We have variable amount lending agreements and other notes receivable with Caterpillar.  Under these agreements, we may borrow up to $2.31 billion from Caterpillar, and Caterpillar may borrow up to $1.29 billion from us.  The agreements are in effect for indefinite periods of time and may be changed or terminated by either party with 30 days notice.  We extended a $2 billion committed credit facility to Caterpillar, which expires in February 2019.  Under this agreement, we receive a fee from Caterpillar based on amounts drawn under the credit facility and a commitment fee for the undrawn amounts under the credit facility.  Information concerning these agreements was as follows:
	(Millions of dollars)
		2014		2013		2012
	Notes payable as of December 31,	$	1,108	$	1,118	$	208
	Notes receivable as of December 31,	$	414	$	345	$	360
	Interest expense	$	7	$	7	$	4
	Interest income on Notes Receivable with Caterpillar(1)	$	18	$	19	$	21
	Fees on committed credit facility extended to Caterpillar(1)	$	41	$	41	$	41
	(1) Included in Other revenues, net in the Consolidated Statements of Profit.
	We have agreements with Caterpillar to purchase certain trade receivables at a discount. Information pertaining to these purchases was as follows:
	(Millions of dollars)
		2014		2013		2012
	Purchases made	$	36,816	$	33,018	$	36,665
	Discounts earned	$	243	$	233	$	241
	Balance as of December 31,	$	3,238	$	3,092	$	3,114
	We participate in certain marketing programs sponsored by Caterpillar by providing financing to customers at interest rates that are below market rates.  Under these programs, Caterpillar funds an amount at the outset of the transaction, which we then recognize as revenue over the term of the financing.  During 2014, 2013 and 2012, relative to such programs, we received $173 million, $189 million and $160 million, respectively.
	We participate in various benefit plans, which are administered by Caterpillar.  These plans include employee medical plans and postretirement benefit plans.  We reimburse Caterpillar for these charges.  During 2014, 2013 and 2012, these charges amounted to $30 million, $27 million and $26 million, respectively.  Included in these charges are contributions to defined benefit plans in the amount of $7 million for each of 2014, 2013 and 2012.  These contributions are related to our participation in the following defined benefit plans that are administered by Caterpillar: the Caterpillar Inc. Retirement Income Plan, the Caterpillar Inc. Supplemental Retirement Plan and the Caterpillar Inc. Retiree Benefit Program. The total cost of the defined benefit plans is determined by actuarial valuation and we receive an allocation of the service and prior service cost based on headcount. We participate in the Caterpillar stock incentive plans.  In 2014, 2013 and 2012, Caterpillar allocated to us $11 million, $11 million and $10 million, respectively, in expenses related to stock based compensation.  Further information about these plans is available in Caterpillar’s 2014 Annual Report on Form 10-K filed separately with the Securities and Exchange Commission.
	Caterpillar provides operational and administrative support, which is integral to the conduct of our business.  In 2014, 2013 and 2012, these operational and support charges for which we reimburse Caterpillar amounted to $37 million, $33 million and $32 million, respectively. In addition, we provide administrative support services to certain Caterpillar subsidiaries.  Caterpillar reimburses us for these charges.  During 2014, 2013 and 2012, these charges amounted to $12 million, $12 million and $10 million, respectively.
	We join Caterpillar in the filing of a consolidated U.S. Federal income tax return and certain state income tax returns.  In accordance with our tax sharing agreement with Caterpillar, we generally pay to or receive from Caterpillar our allocated share of income taxes or credits reflected in these consolidated filings. This amount is calculated on a separate return basis by taking taxable income times the applicable statutory tax rate.

Leases

Leases	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014
Leases [Abstract]
Leases	LEASES
	We lease our offices and other property through operating leases.  Rental expense is charged to operations as incurred.  For 2014, 2013 and 2012, total rental expense for operating leases was $17 million, $17 million and $16 million, respectively.  At December 31, 2014, minimum payments for operating leases having initial non-cancelable terms in excess of one year were as follows:
	(Millions of dollars)
	2015	$	16
	2016	13
	2017	12
	2018	11
	2019	10
	Thereafter	21
	Total	$	83

Segment_Information

Segment Information	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014
Segment Reporting [Abstract]
Segment Information	SEGMENT INFORMATION
	A.     Description of Segments
	Our segment data is based on disclosure requirements of accounting guidance on segment reporting, which requires that financial information be reported on the basis that is used internally for measuring segment performance. Internally, we report information for operating segments based on management responsibility. Our operating segments offer primarily the same types of services within each of the respective segments. The operating segments are as follows:
	•	North America - Includes our operations in the United States and Canada that serve local dealers and customers.
	•	Europe and Caterpillar Power Finance - This segment includes our operations that serve dealers and customers in Europe, Africa, Middle East and the Commonwealth of Independent States.  This segment also includes Caterpillar Power Finance (CPF), which finances marine vessels with Caterpillar engines worldwide and also provides debt financing for Caterpillar electrical power generation, gas compression and co-generation systems, as well as non-Caterpillar equipment that is powered by these systems worldwide.
	•	Asia/Pacific - This segment includes our operations in Australia, China, Japan, South Korea and Southeast Asia that serve local dealers and customers.
	•	Latin America - Includes our operations in Brazil, Mexico and Chile that serve local dealers and customers in Central and South America.
	•	Mining - This segment includes large mining customers worldwide. This segment also provides project financing in various countries.
	B.     Measurement and Reconciliations
	Cash, debt and other expenses are allocated to operating segments based on their respective portfolios. The related Interest expense is calculated based on the amount of allocated debt and the rates associated with that debt. The performance of each segment is assessed based on a consistent leverage ratio. The Provision for credit losses included in each operating segment's profit is based on each operating segment's share of the Company's Allowance for credit losses.
	Reconciling items are created based on accounting differences between operating segment reporting and our consolidated external reporting. For the reconciliation of profit before income taxes, we have grouped the reconciling items as follows:
	•	Unallocated - This item is related to corporate requirements and strategies that are considered to be for the benefit of the entire organization. Also included are the consolidated results of the special purpose corporation (see Note 10 for additional information) and other miscellaneous items.
	•	Timing - Timing differences in the recognition of costs between operating segment reporting and consolidated external reporting.
	•	Methodology - Methodology differences between our operating segment reporting and our consolidated external reporting are as follows:
	◦	Segment assets include off-balance sheet managed assets for which we typically maintain servicing responsibilities.
	◦	The impact of the difference between the actual leverage and the segment leverage ratios is included as a methodology difference.
	◦	Interest expense includes realized forward points on foreign currency forward contracts, with the mark-to-market elements of the forward exchange contracts included as a methodology difference.
	◦	The net gain or loss from interest rate derivatives is included as a methodology difference.
	◦	The profit attributable to noncontrolling interests is considered a component of segment profit.
	As noted above, the operating segment information is presented on a management-reporting basis. Unlike financial reporting, there is no authoritative guidance for management reporting equivalent to U.S. GAAP.
	Supplemental segment data and reconciliations to consolidated external reporting for the years ended December 31 was as follows:
	(Millions of dollars)	Revenues			Segment			Interest			Depreciation		Provision			Segment			Capital
					Profit			Expense			on equipment		for			Assets at			expenditures
											leased to		credit			December 31,
											others		losses			2014
	2014
	North America	$	1,067		$	355		$	240		$	361	$	3		$	13,661		$	1,077
	Europe and CPF	498			134			88			98		50			7,601			133
	Asia/Pacific	368			129			116			24		35			4,767			34
	Latin America	449			124			130			114		22			4,676			111
	Mining	461			64			65			272		29			3,161			269
	Total Segments	2,843			806			639			869		139			33,866			1,624
	Unallocated	70			(82		)	48			1		2			1,648			1
	Timing	(28		)	(8		)	—			—		(2		)	120			2
	Methodology	—			37			(56		)	—		—			(215		)	—
	Inter-segment Eliminations	—			—			—			—		—			(243		)	—
	Total	$	2,885		$	753		$	631		$	870	$	139		$	35,176		$	1,627
		Revenues			Segment			Interest			Depreciation		Provision			Segment			Capital
	2013				Profit			Expense			on equipment		for			Assets at			expenditures
											leased to		credit			December 31,
											others		losses			2013
	North America	$	946		$	283		$	259		$	293	$	—		$	12,160		$	782
	Europe and CPF	505			146			110			86		47			8,068			242
	Asia/Pacific	399			156			135			25		9			5,251			54
	Latin America	414			89			137			93		35			4,947			272
	Mining	474			85			79			272		12			3,441			469
	Total Segments	2,738			759			720			769		103			33,867			1,819
	Unallocated	73			(73		)	53			1		2			1,595			1
	Timing	(26		)	(10		)	—			—		(4		)	68			2
	Methodology	—			18			(39		)	—		—			(189		)	—
	Inter-segment Eliminations	—			—			—			—		—			(227		)	—
	Total	$	2,785		$	694		$	734		$	770	$	101		$	35,114		$	1,822
		Revenues			Segment			Interest			Depreciation		Provision			Segment			Capital
					Profit			Expense			on equipment		for			Assets at			expenditures
	2012										leased to		credit			December 31,
											others		losses			2012
	North America	$	938		$	264		$	270		$	274	$	15		$	11,309		$	565
	Europe and CPF	467			84			134			76		65			7,785			243
	Asia/Pacific	399			134			155			23		24			6,144			133
	Latin America	389			109			141			64		28			4,969			172
	Mining	451			60			90			250		27			3,212			545
	Total Segments	2,644			651			790			687		159			33,419			1,658
	Unallocated	73			(93		)	61			1		1			1,529			—
	Timing	(24		)	(6		)	—			—		3			17			2
Methodology	—			32			(50		)	—		—			(61		)	—
Inter-segment Eliminations	—			—			—			—		—			(169		)	—
Total	$	2,693		$	584		$	801		$	688	$	163		$	34,735		$	1,660
Inside and outside the United States:
(Millions of dollars)
		2014			2013			2012
Revenues
Inside U.S.		$	1,219		$	1,045		$	1,009
Inside Canada		259			329			330
Inside Australia		261			287			302
All other		1,146			1,124			1,052
Total		$	2,885		$	2,785		$	2,693
Equipment on Operating Leases and Non-Leased		2014			2013			2012
Equipment (included in Other Assets), Net
Inside U.S.		$	1,696		$	1,437		$	1,204
Inside Canada		756			729			741
Inside Australia		358			434			341
All other		896			1,037			788
Total		$	3,706		$	3,637		$	3,074

Selected_Quarterly_Financial_D

Selected Quarterly Financial Data (Unaudited)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014
Quarterly Financial Information Disclosure [Abstract]
Selected Quarterly Financial Data (Unaudited)	SELECTED QUARTERLY FINANCIAL DATA (UNAUDITED)
	(Millions of dollars)
	2014	First quarter		Second quarter		Third quarter		Fourth quarter
	Total revenues	$	711	$	728	$	743	$	703
	Profit before income taxes	$	182	$	208	$	197	$	166
	Profit	$	131	$	148	$	148	$	108
	2013	First quarter		Second quarter		Third quarter		Fourth quarter
	Total revenues	$	680	$	695	$	699	$	711
	Profit before income taxes	$	185	$	141	$	164	$	204
	Profit	$	140	$	98	$	117	$	158

Critical_Accounting_Policies_P

Critical Accounting Policies (Policies)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014
Accounting Policies [Abstract]
Residual values for leased assets	Residual values for leased assets
	Lease residual values are an estimate of the market value of leased equipment at the end of the lease term and are based on an analysis of historical wholesale market sales prices, projected forward on a level trend line without consideration for inflation or possible future pricing action.  At the inception of the lease, residual values are estimated with consideration of the following critical factors: market size and demand, any known significant market/product trends, total expected hours of usage, machine configuration, application, location, model changes, quantities and past re-marketing experience, third-party residual guarantees and contractual customer purchase options.  Many of these factors are gathered in an application survey that is completed prior to quotation.  The lease agreement also clearly defines applicable return conditions and remedies for non-compliance, to ensure that the leased equipment will be in good operating condition upon return.  Model changes and updates, as well as market strength and product acceptance, are monitored and adjustments are made to residual values in accordance with the significance of any such changes.  Remarketing sales staff works closely with customers and dealers to manage the sale of lease returns and the recovery of residual exposure.
	During the term of the leases, residual values are monitored.  If estimated end-of-term market values of leased equipment reflect a non-temporary impairment due to economic factors, obsolescence or other adverse circumstances, the residual value of the leased equipment is adjusted so that the carrying value at end of lease term will approximate the estimated end-of-term market value. For equipment on operating leases, adjustments are made on a straight-line basis over the remaining term of the lease through depreciation expense.  For finance leases, adjustments are recognized at the time of assessment through a reduction of finance revenue.
	At December 31, 2014, the aggregate residual value of equipment on operating leases was $1.98 billion. Without consideration of other factors such as third-party residual guarantees or contractual customer purchase options, a 10 percent non-temporary decrease in the market value of our equipment subject to operating leases would reduce residual value estimates and result in recognition of approximately $80 million of additional annual depreciation expense.
Allowance for credit losses	Allowance for credit losses
	The Allowance for credit losses is an estimate of the losses inherent in our finance receivable portfolio and includes consideration of accounts that have been individually identified as impaired, as well as pools of finance receivables where it is probable that certain receivables in the pool are impaired but the individual accounts cannot yet be identified.   In identifying and measuring impairment, management takes into consideration past loss experience, known and inherent risks in the portfolio, adverse situations that may affect the borrower’s ability to repay, estimated value of underlying collateral and current economic conditions.  In estimating probable credit losses, we review accounts that are past due, non-performing, in bankruptcy or otherwise identified as at-risk for potential credit loss including accounts which have been modified.  Accounts are identified as at-risk for potential credit loss using information available about the customer, such as financial statements, news reports and published credit ratings, as well as general information regarding industry trends and the economic environment in which our customers operate.
	The Allowance for credit losses attributable to specific accounts is based on the most probable source of repayment, which is normally the liquidation of collateral.  In determining collateral value, we estimate the current fair market value of the collateral less selling costs. We also consider credit enhancements such as additional collateral and contractual third-party guarantees. The Allowance for credit losses attributable to the remaining accounts not yet individually identified as impaired is estimated utilizing probabilities of default and the estimated loss given default.  In addition, qualitative factors not able to be fully captured in previous analysis including industry trends, macroeconomic factors and model imprecision are considered in the evaluation of the adequacy of the Allowance for credit losses.  These qualitative factors are subjective and require a degree of management judgment.
	While management believes it has exercised prudent judgment and applied reasonable assumptions, there can be no assurance that in the future, changes in economic conditions or other factors would not cause changes in the financial health of our customers.  If the financial health of our customers deteriorates, the timing and level of payments received could be impacted and therefore, could result in a change to our estimated losses. Please see Item 9A for discussion of a material weakness in our internal control over financial reporting relating to the Allowance for credit losses and our related remediation plan.
Income taxes	Income taxes
	We are subject to the income tax laws of the many jurisdictions in which we operate. These tax laws are complex and the manner in which they apply to our facts is sometimes open to interpretation. In establishing the Provision for income taxes, we must make judgments about the application of these inherently complex tax laws.
	Despite our belief that our tax return positions are consistent with applicable tax laws, we believe that taxing authorities could challenge certain positions. Settlement of any challenge can result in no change, a complete disallowance, or some partial adjustment reached through negotiations or litigation. We record tax benefits for uncertain tax positions based upon management's evaluation of the information available at the reporting date. To be recognized in the financial statements, a tax benefit must be at least more likely than not of being sustained based on technical merits. The benefit for positions meeting the recognition threshold is measured as the largest benefit more likely than not of being realized upon ultimate settlement with a taxing authority that has full knowledge of all relevant information. Significant judgment is required in making these determinations and adjustments to unrecognized tax benefits may be necessary to reflect actual taxes payable upon settlement. Adjustments related to positions impacting the effective tax rate affect the Provision for income taxes. Adjustments related to positions impacting the timing of deductions impact deferred tax assets and liabilities.
	Our income tax positions and analysis are based on currently enacted tax law. Future changes in tax law could significantly impact the Provision for income taxes, the amount of taxes payable and the deferred tax asset and liability balances. Deferred tax assets generally represent tax benefits for tax deductions or credits available in future tax returns. Certain estimates and assumptions are required to determine whether it is more likely than not that all or some portion of the benefit of a deferred tax asset will not be realized. In making this assessment, management analyzes and estimates the impact of future taxable income, reversing temporary differences and available prudent and feasible tax planning strategies. Should a change in facts or circumstances lead to a change in judgment about the ultimate realizability of a deferred tax asset, we record or adjust the related valuation allowance in the period that the change in facts and circumstances occurs, along with a corresponding increase or decrease in the Provision for income taxes.
	A provision for U.S. income taxes has not been recorded on undistributed profits of our non-U.S. subsidiaries that we have determined to be indefinitely reinvested outside the U.S. If management intentions or U.S. tax law changes in the future, there may be a significant negative impact on the Provision for income taxes to record an incremental tax liability in the period the change occurs. A deferred tax asset is recognized only if we have definite plans to generate a U.S. tax benefit by repatriating earnings in the foreseeable future.
	Income taxes are based on the statutory tax rate of the jurisdiction where earnings are subject to taxation which may differ from the jurisdiction where that entity is incorporated. Taxes are paid in the jurisdictions where earnings are subject to taxation. The annual tax rate differs from the U.S. statutory rate primarily due to results of non-U.S. subsidiaries being subject to statutory tax rates which are generally lower than the U.S. rate of 35%.

Summary_of_Significant_Account1

Summary of Significant Accounting Policies (Policies)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014
Accounting Policies [Abstract]
Basis of Consolidation	Basis of Consolidation
	The consolidated financial statements include the accounts of Cat Financial.  Investments in companies that are owned 20 percent to 50 percent or are less than 20 percent owned and for which we have significant influence are accounted for by the equity method.  Investments in companies that are less than 20 percent owned and for which we do not have significant influence are accounted for by the cost method.  All material intercompany balances have been eliminated.
	We consolidate all variable-interest entities (VIEs) where we are the primary beneficiary. For VIEs, we assess whether we are the primary beneficiary as prescribed by the accounting guidance on the consolidation of VIEs. The primary beneficiary of a VIE is the party that has the power to direct the activities that most significantly impact the performance of the entity and the obligation to absorb losses or the right to receive benefits that could potentially be significant to the entity. Please refer to Note 10 for more information.
Recognition of Earned Income	Recognition of Earned Income
	•	Retail finance revenue on finance leases and installment sale contracts is recognized over the term of the contract at a constant rate of return on the scheduled outstanding principal balance.  Revenue on retail notes is recognized based on the daily balance of retail receivables outstanding and the applicable effective interest rate.
	•	Operating lease revenue is recorded on a straight-line basis in the period earned over the life of the contract.
	•	Wholesale finance revenue on finance leases and installment sale contracts related to financing dealer inventory and rental fleets is recognized over the term of the contract at a constant rate of return on the scheduled outstanding principal balance.  Revenue on wholesale notes is recognized based on the daily balance of wholesale receivables outstanding and the applicable effective interest rate.
	•	Loan origination and commitment fees are deferred and amortized to revenue using the interest method over the life of the finance receivables.
	Recognition of income is suspended and the loan or finance lease is placed on non-accrual status when management determines that collection of future income is not probable (generally after 120 days past due except in locations where local regulatory requirements dictate a different method, or instances in which relevant information is known that warrants placing the loan or finance lease on non-accrual status).  Accrual is resumed, and previously suspended income is recognized, when the loan or finance lease becomes contractually current and/or collection doubts are removed.  Cash receipts on impaired loans or finance leases are recorded against the receivable and then to any unrecognized income. A loan or finance lease is considered impaired, based on current information and events, if it is probable that we will be unable to collect all amounts due according to the contractual terms of the loan or finance lease. We consider a loan or finance lease past due if any portion of a contractual payment is due and unpaid for more than 30 days.
	Revenues are presented net of sales and other related taxes.
Depreciation	Depreciation
	Depreciation for equipment on operating leases is recognized using the straight-line method over the lease term, typically one to seven years.  The depreciable basis is the original cost of the equipment less the estimated residual value of the equipment at the end of the lease term.
Debt Issuance Costs	Debt Issuance Costs
	Debt issuance costs are capitalized and amortized to Interest expense over the term of the debt issue.
Derivative Financial Instruments	Derivative Financial Instruments
	Our earnings and cash flows are subject to fluctuations due to changes in foreign currency exchange rates and interest rates.  Our Risk Management Policy allows for the use of derivative financial instruments to prudently manage foreign currency exchange rate and interest rate exposures and not for the purpose of creating speculative positions.  Derivatives that we use are primarily foreign currency forward, option, and cross currency contracts and interest rate swaps.  All derivatives are recorded at fair value.  See Note 9 for additional information.
Foreign Currency Translation	Foreign Currency Translation
	Assets and liabilities of foreign subsidiaries (the majority of which use the local currency as their functional currency) are translated at current exchange rates.  The effects of translation adjustments are reported as a separate component of Accumulated other comprehensive income entitled "Foreign currency translation."  Gains and losses resulting from the remeasurement of foreign currency amounts to functional currency are included in Other income (expense) on the Consolidated Statements of Profit.
Use of Estimates in the Preparation of Financial Statements	Use of Estimates in the Preparation of Financial Statements
	The preparation of financial statements, in conformity with generally accepted accounting principles in the United States of America, requires management to make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts.  Significant estimates include the Allowance for credit losses, residual values for leased assets, income taxes and the assumptions used to determine the fair value of derivatives. Actual results may differ from these estimates.

Accumulated_Other_Comprehensiv1

Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income/(Loss) (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax [Abstract]
Schedule of Accumulated other comprehensive income/(loss)	Comprehensive income/(loss) and its components are presented in the Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income. Changes in Accumulated other comprehensive income/(loss), net of tax, included in the Consolidated Statements of Changes in Stockholder's Equity, consisted of the following:
	(Millions of dollars)	Foreign				Derivative				Total
		currency				financial
		translation				instruments
	Balance at December 31, 2012	$	184			$	(8	)		$	176
	Other comprehensive income/(loss) before reclassifications	(62		)		(1		)		(63		)
	Amounts reclassified from accumulated other comprehensive income/(loss)	—				4				4
	Other comprehensive income/(loss)	(62		)		3				(59		)
	Balance at December 31, 2013	$	122			$	(5	)		$	117
	Other comprehensive income/(loss) before reclassifications	(481		)		(4		)		(485		)
	Amounts reclassified from accumulated other comprehensive income/(loss)	—				4				4
	Other comprehensive income/(loss)	(481		)		—				(481		)
	Balance at December 31, 2014	$	(359	)		$	(5	)		$	(364	)
Reclassifications out of Accumulated other comprehensive income/(loss)	The effect of the reclassifications out of Accumulated other comprehensive income/(loss) on the Consolidated Statements of Profit during the years ended December 31, 2014 and 2013 was as follows:
	(Millions of dollars)
		Classification of		2014				2013
		income (expense)
	Foreign exchange contracts	Other income (expense)		$	—			$	—
	Interest rate contracts	Interest expense		(6		)		(6		)
	Reclassifications before tax			(6		)		(6		)
	Tax (provision) benefit			2				2
	Total reclassifications from Accumulated other comprehensive income/(loss)			$	(4	)		$	(4	)

Financing_Activities_Tables

Financing Activities (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014
Receivables [Abstract]
Contractual maturities and future scheduled payments of outstanding receivables	The contractual maturities and future scheduled payments of outstanding receivables, as of December 31, 2014, were:
	(Millions of dollars)
	Amounts due in	Retail				Wholesale			Retail				Wholesale			Retail			Wholesale			Total
		Installment				Installment			Finance				Finance			Notes			Notes
		Sale				Sale			Leases				Leases
		Contracts				Contracts
	2015	$	2,420			$	88		$	2,999			$	67		$	3,984		$	4,033		$	13,591
	2016	1,828				17			2,096				54			2,238			262			6,495
	2017	1,246				8			1,184				33			1,896			202			4,569
	2018	623				3			524				16			1,069			17			2,252
	2019	189				—			213				3			848			—			1,253
	Thereafter	13				—			132				2			970			—			1,117
		6,319				116			7,148				175			11,005			4,514			29,277
	Guaranteed residual value	—				—			352				69			—			—			421
	Unguaranteed residual value	—				—			636				24			—			—			660
	Less: Unearned income	(113		)		—			(639		)		(20		)	(87		)	(24		)	(883		)
	Total	$	6,206			$	116		$	7,497			$	248		$	10,918		$	4,490		$	29,475
	Less: Allowance for credit losses																					(401		)
	Total net finance receivables																					$	29,074
Impaired loans and finance leases	Individually impaired loans and finance leases for the Customer portfolio segment were as follows:
	(Millions of dollars)
		As of December 31, 2014											As of December 31, 2013
	Impaired Loans and Finance	Recorded				Unpaid			Related				Recorded			Unpaid			Related
	Leases With No Allowance	Investment				Principal			Allowance				Investment			Principal			Allowance
	Recorded					Balance										Balance
	Customer
	North America	$	14			$	14		$	—			$	23		$	22		$	—
	Europe	44				43			—				48			47			—
	Asia/Pacific	2				2			—				7			7			—
	Mining	29				29			—				134			134			—
	Latin America	34				34			—				11			11			—
	Caterpillar Power Finance	129				128			—				223			222			—
	Total	$	252			$	250		$	—			$	446		$	443		$	—
	Impaired Loans and Finance
	Leases With An Allowance
	Recorded
	Customer
	North America	$	6			$	6		$	1			$	13		$	13		$	4
	Europe	12				12			4				20			19			7
	Asia/Pacific	29				29			8				17			17			2
	Mining	138				137			9				—			—			—
	Latin America	42				42			12				33			33			9
	Caterpillar Power Finance	135				134			41				110			106			51
	Total	$	362			$	360		$	75			$	193		$	188		$	73
	Total Impaired Loans and
	Finance Leases
	Customer
	North America	$	20			$	20		$	1			$	36		$	35		$	4
	Europe	56				55			4				68			66			7
	Asia/Pacific	31				31			8				24			24			2
	Mining	167				166			9				134			134			—
	Latin America	76				76			12				44			44			9
	Caterpillar Power Finance	264				262			41				333			328			51
	Total	$	614			$	610		$	75			$	639		$	631		$	73
	(Millions of dollars)
		As of December 31, 2012
	Impaired Loans and Finance	Recorded				Unpaid			Related
	Leases With No Allowance	Investment				Principal			Allowance
	Recorded					Balance
	Customer
	North America	$	28			$	27		$	—
	Europe	45				45			—
	Asia/Pacific	2				2			—
	Mining	1				1			—
	Latin America	7				7			—
	Caterpillar Power Finance	295				295			—
	Total	$	378			$	377		$	—
	Impaired Loans and Finance
	Leases With An Allowance
	Recorded
	Customer
	North America	$	25			$	23		$	7
	Europe	28				26			11
	Asia/Pacific	19				19			4
	Mining	—				—			—
	Latin America	36				36			10
	Caterpillar Power Finance	113				109			24
	Total	$	221			$	213		$	56
	Total Impaired Loans and
	Finance Leases
	Customer
	North America	$	53			$	50		$	7
	Europe	73				71			11
Asia/Pacific	21				21			4
Mining	1				1			—
Latin America	43				43			10
Caterpillar Power Finance	408				404			24
Total	$	599			$	590		$	56
(Millions of dollars)
	Year Ended							Year Ended							Year Ended
	31-Dec-14							31-Dec-13							31-Dec-12
Impaired Loans and Finance	Average				Interest			Average				Interest			Average			Interest
Leases With No Allowance	Recorded				Income			Recorded				Income			Recorded			Income
Recorded	Investment				Recognized			Investment				Recognized			Investment			Recognized
Customer
North America	$	20			$	1		$	25			$	3		$	50		$	3
Europe	47				1			49				1			45			1
Asia/Pacific	3				—			4				—			3			—
Mining	69				3			61				3			8			—
Latin America	30				—			11				—			6			—
Caterpillar Power Finance	164				6			271				5			220			2
Total	$	333			$	11		$	421			$	12		$	332		$	6
Impaired Loans and Finance
Leases With An Allowance
Recorded
Customer
North America	$	9			$	—		$	18			$	1		$	25		$	1
Europe	21				1			22				1			27			1
Asia/Pacific	23				1			18				1			15			1
Mining	90				7			1				—			—			—
Latin America	36				1			52				2			32			2
Caterpillar Power Finance	96				2			135				1			94			—
Total	$	275			$	12		$	246			$	6		$	193		$	5
Total Impaired Loans and
Finance Leases
Customer
North America	$	29			$	1		$	43			$	4		$	75		$	4
Europe	68				2			71				2			72			2
Asia/Pacific	26				1			22				1			18			1
Mining	159				10			62				3			8			—
Latin America	66				1			63				2			38			2
Caterpillar Power Finance	260				8			406				6			314			2
Total	$	608			$	23		$	667			$	18		$	525		$	11
Investment in customer loans and finance leases on non-accrual statuts	The investment in customer loans and finance leases on non-accrual status as of December 31, was as follows:
	(Millions of dollars)
		2014				2013			2012
	Customer
	North America	$	27			$	26		$	59
	Europe	28				28			38
	Asia/Pacific	54				50			36
	Mining	62				23			12
	Latin America	201				210			163
	Caterpillar Power Finance	96				119			220
	Total	$	468			$	456		$	528
Aging related to loans and finance leases	Aging related to loans and finance leases was as follows:
	(Millions of dollars)
		December 31, 2014
		31-60				61-90			91+				Total			Current			Total			91+ Still
		Days				Days			Days				Past Due						Finance			Accruing
		Past Due				Past Due			Past Due										Receivables
	Customer
	North America	$	46			$	8		$	27			$	81		$	7,291		$	7,372		$	4
	Europe	16				23			29				68			2,607			2,675			6
	Asia/Pacific	29				22			69				120			2,773			2,893			16
	Mining	28				—			11				39			2,084			2,123			—
	Latin America	55				23			196				274			2,583			2,857			8
	Caterpillar Power Finance	1				4			64				69			3,079			3,148			1
	Dealer
	North America	—				—			—				—			3,209			3,209			—
	Europe	—				—			—				—			467			467			—
	Asia/Pacific	—				—			—				—			637			637			—
	Mining	—				—			—				—			3			3			—
	Latin America	—				—			—				—			853			853			—
	Caterpillar Power Finance	—				—			—				—			—			—			—
	Caterpillar Purchased Receivables
	North America	23				5			1				29			1,916			1,945			1
	Europe	4				1			5				10			429			439			1
	Asia/Pacific	—				—			—				—			401			401			—
	Mining	—				—			—				—			—			—			—
	Latin America	6				5			—				11			420			431			—
	Caterpillar Power Finance	—				—			1				1			21			22			1
	Total	$	208			$	91		$	403			$	702		$	28,773		$	29,475		$	38
	(Millions of dollars)
		December 31, 2013
		31-60				61-90			91+				Total			Current			Total			91+ Still
		Days				Days			Days				Past Due						Finance			Accruing
		Past Due				Past Due			Past Due										Receivables
	Customer
	North America	$	37			$	12		$	24			$	73		$	6,507		$	6,580		$	6
	Europe	26				15			29				70			2,805			2,875			8
	Asia/Pacific	55				46			59				160			3,158			3,318			11
	Mining	3				—			12				15			2,128			2,143			—
	Latin America	54				25			196				275			2,438			2,713			5
	Caterpillar Power Finance	55				30			60				145			2,946			3,091			—
	Dealer
	North America	—				—			—				—			3,034			3,034			—
	Europe	—				—			—				—			569			569			—
	Asia/Pacific	—				—			—				—			706			706			—
	Mining	—				—			—				—			5			5			—
	Latin America	—				—			—				—			940			940			—
	Caterpillar Power Finance	—				—			—				—			—			—			—
	Caterpillar Purchased Receivables
	North America	26				5			2				33			1,539			1,572			2
	Europe	2				1			1				4			423			427			—
	Asia/Pacific	—				—			—				—			468			468			—
	Mining	—				—			—				—			—			—			—
	Latin America	—				—			—				—			616			616			—
	Caterpillar Power Finance	—				—			1				1			8			9			1
	Total	$	258			$	134		$	384			$	776		$	28,290		$	29,066		$	33
	(Millions of dollars)
		December 31, 2012
		31-60				61-90			91+				Total			Current			Total			91+ Still
		Days				Days			Days				Past Due						Finance			Accruing
		Past Due				Past Due			Past Due										Receivables
	Customer
	North America	$	35			$	8		$	52			$	95		$	5,889		$	5,984		$	3
	Europe	23				9			36				68			2,487			2,555			9
	Asia/Pacific	53				19			54				126			3,343			3,469			18
Mining	—				1			12				13			1,960			1,973			—
Latin America	62				19			153				234			2,481			2,715			—
Caterpillar Power Finance	15				14			126				155			3,017			3,172			4
Dealer
North America	—				—			—				—			2,931			2,931			—
Europe	—				—			—				—			652			652			—
Asia/Pacific	—				—			—				—			945			945			—
Mining	—				—			—				—			1			1			—
Latin America	—				—			—				—			1,057			1,057			—
Caterpillar Power Finance	—				—			—				—			—			—			—
Caterpillar Purchased Receivables
North America	17				3			2				22			1,334			1,356			2
Europe	1				—			—				1			331			332			—
Asia/Pacific	—				—			—				—			868			868			—
Mining	—				—			—				—			—			—			—
Latin America	—				—			—				—			547			547			—
Caterpillar Power Finance	—				—			1				1			10			11			1
Total	$	206			$	73		$	436			$	715		$	27,853		$	28,568		$	37
Allowance for credit losses and recorded investment in finance receivables	An analysis of the Allowance for credit losses was as follows:
	(Millions of dollars)
		December 31, 2014
	Allowance for Credit Losses:	Customer				Dealer			Caterpillar				Total
									Purchased
									Receivables
	Balance at beginning of year	$	374			$	10		$	3			$	387
	Receivables written off	(146		)		—			—				(146		)
	Recoveries on receivables previously written off	47				—			—				47
	Provision for credit losses	136				—			—				136
	Adjustment due to sale of receivables	(3		)		—			—				(3		)
	Foreign currency translation adjustment	(20		)		—			—				(20		)
	Balance at end of year	$	388			$	10		$	3			$	401
	Individually evaluated for impairment	$	75			$	—		$	—			$	75
	Collectively evaluated for impairment	313				10			3				326
	Ending Balance	$	388			$	10		$	3			$	401
	Recorded Investment in Finance Receivables:
	Individually evaluated for impairment	$	614			$	—		$	—			$	614
	Collectively evaluated for impairment	20,454				5,169			3,238				28,861
	Ending Balance	$	21,068			$	5,169		$	3,238			$	29,475
	(Millions of dollars)
		December 31, 2013
	Allowance for Credit Losses:	Customer				Dealer			Caterpillar				Total
									Purchased
									Receivables
	Balance at beginning of year	$	417			$	9		$	3			$	429
	Receivables written off	(180		)		—			—				(180		)
	Recoveries on receivables previously written off	56				—			—				56
	Provision for credit losses	90				1			—				91
	Adjustment due to sale of receivables	(3		)		—			—				(3		)
	Foreign currency translation adjustment	(6		)		—			—				(6		)
	Balance at end of year	$	374			$	10		$	3			$	387
	Individually evaluated for impairment	$	73			$	—		$	—			$	73
	Collectively evaluated for impairment	301				10			3				314
	Ending Balance	$	374			$	10		$	3			$	387
	Recorded Investment in Finance Receivables:
	Individually evaluated for impairment	$	639			$	—		$	—			$	639
	Collectively evaluated for impairment	20,081				5,254			3,092				28,427
	Ending Balance	$	20,720			$	5,254		$	3,092			$	29,066
	(Millions of dollars)
		December 31, 2012
	Allowance for Credit Losses:	Customer				Dealer			Caterpillar				Total
									Purchased
									Receivables
	Balance at beginning of year	$	362			$	6		$	3			$	371
	Receivables written off	(150		)		—			—				(150		)
	Recoveries on receivables previously written off	47				—			—				47
	Provision for credit losses	159				3			—				162
	Adjustment due to sale of receivables	(2		)		—			—				(2		)
	Foreign currency translation adjustment	1				—			—				1
	Balance at end of year	$	417			$	9		$	3			$	429
	Individually evaluated for impairment	$	56			$	—		$	—			$	56
	Collectively evaluated for impairment	361				9			3				373
	Ending Balance	$	417			$	9		$	3			$	429
	Recorded Investment in Finance Receivables:
	Individually evaluated for impairment	$	599			$	—		$	—			$	599
	Collectively evaluated for impairment	19,269				5,586			3,114				27,969
	Ending Balance	$	19,868			$	5,586		$	3,114			$	28,568
Recorded investment in performing and non-performing finance receivables	The recorded investment in performing and non-performing finance receivables was as follows:
	(Millions of dollars)
		December 31, 2014
		Customer				Dealer			Caterpillar				Total
									Purchased
									Receivables
	Performing
	North America	$	7,345			$	3,209		$	1,945			$	12,499
	Europe	2,647				467			435				3,549
	Asia/Pacific	2,839				637			401				3,877
	Mining	2,061				3			—				2,064
	Latin America	2,656				853			431				3,940
	Caterpillar Power Finance	3,052				—			22				3,074
	Total Performing	$	20,600			$	5,169		$	3,234			$	29,003
	Non-Performing
	North America	$	27			$	—		$	—			$	27
	Europe	28				—			4				32
	Asia/Pacific	54				—			—				54
	Mining	62				—			—				62
	Latin America	201				—			—				201
	Caterpillar Power Finance	96				—			—				96
	Total Non-Performing	$	468			$	—		$	4			$	472
	Total Performing and Non-Performing
	North America	$	7,372			$	3,209		$	1,945			$	12,526
	Europe	2,675				467			439				3,581
	Asia/Pacific	2,893				637			401				3,931
	Mining	2,123				3			—				2,126
	Latin America	2,857				853			431				4,141
	Caterpillar Power Finance	3,148				—			22				3,170
	Total	$	21,068			$	5,169		$	3,238			$	29,475
	(Millions of dollars)
		December 31, 2013
		Customer				Dealer			Caterpillar				Total
									Purchased
									Receivables
	Performing
	North America	$	6,554			$	3,034		$	1,572			$	11,160
	Europe	2,847				569			427				3,843
	Asia/Pacific	3,268				706			468				4,442
	Mining	2,120				5			—				2,125
	Latin America	2,503				940			616				4,059
	Caterpillar Power Finance	2,972				—			9				2,981
	Total Performing	$	20,264			$	5,254		$	3,092			$	28,610
	Non-Performing
	North America	$	26			$	—		$	—			$	26
	Europe	28				—			—				28
	Asia/Pacific	50				—			—				50
	Mining	23				—			—				23
	Latin America	210				—			—				210
	Caterpillar Power Finance	119				—			—				119
	Total Non-Performing	$	456			$	—		$	—			$	456
	Total Performing and Non-Performing
	North America	$	6,580			$	3,034		$	1,572			$	11,186
	Europe	2,875				569			427				3,871
	Asia/Pacific	3,318				706			468				4,492
	Mining	2,143				5			—				2,148
	Latin America	2,713				940			616				4,269
	Caterpillar Power Finance	3,091				—			9				3,100
	Total	$	20,720			$	5,254		$	3,092			$	29,066
	(Millions of dollars)
		December 31, 2012
		Customer				Dealer			Caterpillar				Total
									Purchased
									Receivables
Performing
North America	$	5,925			$	2,931		$	1,356			$	10,212
Europe	2,517				652			332				3,501
Asia/Pacific	3,433				945			868				5,246
Mining	1,961				1			—				1,962
Latin America	2,552				1,057			547				4,156
Caterpillar Power Finance	2,952				—			11				2,963
Total Performing	$	19,340			$	5,586		$	3,114			$	28,040
Non-Performing
North America	$	59			$	—		$	—			$	59
Europe	38				—			—				38
Asia/Pacific	36				—			—				36
Mining	12				—			—				12
Latin America	163				—			—				163
Caterpillar Power Finance	220				—			—				220
Total Non-Performing	$	528			$	—		$	—			$	528
Total Performing and Non-Performing
North America	$	5,984			$	2,931		$	1,356			$	10,271
Europe	2,555				652			332				3,539
Asia/Pacific	3,469				945			868				5,282
Mining	1,973				1			—				1,974
Latin America	2,715				1,057			547				4,319
Caterpillar Power Finance	3,172				—			11				3,183
Total	$	19,868			$	5,586		$	3,114			$	28,568
Loans and finance lease receivables modified as TDRs	Loans and finance lease receivables in the Customer portfolio segment modified as TDRs during the years ended December 31, 2014, 2013 and 2012, were as follows:
	(Dollars in millions)
		Year Ended
		31-Dec-14
		Number of			Pre-TDR			Post-TDR
		Contracts			Outstanding			Outstanding
					Recorded			Recorded
					Investment			Investment
	Customer
	North America	34			$	12		$	7
	Europe	8			7			7
	Asia/Pacific	2			—			—
	Mining	51			185			176
	Latin America	35			31			30
	Caterpillar Power Finance(1)	18			137			139
	Total(2)	148			$	372		$	359
		Year Ended
		31-Dec-13
		Number of			Pre-TDR			Post-TDR
		Contracts			Outstanding			Outstanding
					Recorded			Recorded
					Investment			Investment
	Customer
	North America	62			$	9		$	9
	Europe	51			7			7
	Asia/Pacific	3			1			1
	Mining	45			123			123
	Latin America	32			3			3
	Caterpillar Power Finance(1)	17			153			157
	Total(2)	210			$	296		$	300
		Year Ended
		31-Dec-12
		Number of			Pre-TDR			Post-TDR
		Contracts			Outstanding			Outstanding
					Recorded			Recorded
					Investment			Investment
	Customer
	North America	98			$	15		$	15
	Europe	21			8			8
	Asia/Pacific	12			3			3
	Latin America	41			5			5
	Caterpillar Power Finance(1)	27			253			253
	Total(2)	199			$	284		$	284
	(1) During the year ended December 31, 2014, no additional funds were subsequently loaned to a borrower whose terms had been modified in a TDR. During the years ended December 31, 2013 and 2012, $25 million and $24 million, respectively, of additional funds were subsequently loaned to a borrower whose terms had been modified in a TDR.  The $25 million and $24 million, respectively, of additional funds are not reflected in the tables above as no incremental modifications have been made with the borrower during the periods presented.  At December 31, 2014, there were no remaining commitments to lend additional funds to a borrower whose terms have been modified in a TDR.
	(2) Modifications include extended contract maturities, inclusion of interest only periods, below market interest rates, extended skip payment periods and reduction of principal and/or accrued interest.
	TDRs in the Customer portfolio segment with a payment default during the years ended December 31, 2014, 2013 and 2012, which had been modified within twelve months prior to the default date, were as follows:
	(Dollars in millions)
		Year Ended						Year Ended							Year Ended
		31-Dec-14						31-Dec-13							31-Dec-12
		Number of			Post-TDR			Number of			Post-TDR				Number of		Post-TDR
		Contracts			Recorded			Contracts			Recorded				Contracts		Recorded
					Investment						Investment						Investment
	Customer
	North America	11			$	1		19			$	4			49		$	4
	Europe	46			2			5			—				—		—
	Asia/Pacific	—			—			—			—				2		1
	Latin America	11			1			—			—				—		—
	Caterpillar Power Finance	—			—			2			3				16		21
	Total	68			$	4		26			$	7			67		$	26
Off-balance sheet managed assets	Total off-balance sheet managed assets as of December 31, were as follows:
	(Millions of dollars)
		2014				2013			2012
	Retail notes receivable	$	121			$	126		$	49
	Operating leases	93				61			60
	Retail finance leases	59				103			116
	Retail installment sale contracts	43				32			66
	Total off-balance sheet managed assets	$	316			$	322		$	291

Equipment_on_Operating_Leases_

Equipment on Operating Leases (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014
Leases [Abstract]
Equipment leased to others	Components of equipment on operating leases, less accumulated depreciation as of December 31, were as follows:
	(Millions of dollars)
			2014				2013				2012
	Equipment on operating leases, at cost		$	5,273			$	5,127			$	4,421
	Less: Accumulated depreciation		(1,649		)		(1,583		)		(1,451		)
	Equipment on operating leases, net		$	3,624			$	3,544			$	2,970
Schedule of minimum rental payments to be received for equipment leased to others	At December 31, 2014, scheduled minimum rental payments for operating leases were as follows:
	2015				2016				2017				2018		2019		Thereafter		Total
	$	904			$	587			$	333			$	166	$	63	$	15	$	2,068

ShortTerm_Borrowings_Tables

Short-Term Borrowings (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014
Short-term Debt [Abstract]
Short-term borrowings	Short-term borrowings outstanding as of December 31, were comprised of the following:
	(Millions of dollars)
		2014			2013			2012
		Balance		Avg. Rate	Balance		Avg. Rate	Balance		Avg. Rate
	Commercial paper, net	$	3,688	0.30%	$	2,502	0.50%	$	3,654	0.60%
	Bank borrowings	411		6.80%	545		6.40%	418		5.60%
	Variable denomination floating	600		0.80%	616		0.80%	579		0.80%
	rate demand notes
	Total	$	4,699		$	3,663		$	4,651

LongTerm_Debt_Tables

Long-Term Debt (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014
Long-term Debt, Unclassified [Abstract]
Long-term debt	Long-term debt outstanding as of December 31, was comprised of the following:
	(Millions of dollars)
			2014				2013				2012
			Balance			Avg. Rate	Balance			Avg. Rate	Balance			Avg. Rate
	Medium-term notes		$	23,094		2.40%	$	23,854		2.80%	$	23,500		3.20%
	Unamortized discount		(4		)		(8		)		(13		)
	Medium-term notes, net		23,090				23,846				23,487
	Bank borrowings		1,484			3.40%	1,483			3.20%	1,602			4.10%
	Total		$	24,574			$	25,329			$	25,089
Aggregate amounts of maturities of long-term debt	Long-term debt outstanding as of December 31, 2014, matures as follows:
	(Millions of dollars)
	2015	$	6,283
	2016	5,507
	2017	5,487
	2018	2,411
	2019	2,381
	Thereafter	2,505
	Total	$	24,574

Derivative_Financial_Instrumen1

Derivative Financial Instruments and Risk Management (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014
Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities Disclosure [Abstract]
Location and fair value of derivative instruments reported in the Consolidated Statements of Financial Position	The location and fair value of derivative instruments reported in the Consolidated Statements of Financial Position were as follows:
	(Millions of dollars)
					Asset (Liability) Fair Value
					December 31,
			Consolidated Statements of		2014				2013				2012
			Financial Position Location
	Designated derivatives
	Interest rate contracts		Other assets		$	79			$	122			$	226
	Interest rate contracts		Accrued expenses		(8		)		(6		)		(8		)
					$	71			$	116			$	218
	Undesignated derivatives
	Foreign exchange contracts		Other assets		$	5			$	7			$	10
	Foreign exchange contracts		Accrued expenses		(15		)		(4		)		(5		)
	Cross currency contracts		Other assets		17				9				—
	Cross currency contracts		Accrued expenses		—				—				(1		)
	Interest rate contracts		Other assets		—				—				2
	Interest rate contracts		Accrued expenses		—				—				(1		)
					$	7			$	12			$	5
Deferred gains (losses) recorded in AOCI on the Consolidated Statements of Changes in Stockholder's Equity	For the years ended December 31, 2014, 2013 and 2012, the deferred gains (losses) recorded in AOCI on the Consolidated Statements of Changes in Stockholder’s Equity associated with our cash flow interest rate contract hedges were as follows:
	(Millions of dollars)
	Balance as of December 31, 2013, net of tax of $3	$	(5	)
	Gains (losses) deferred during the year, net of tax of $2	(4		)
	(Gains) losses reclassified to earnings, net of tax of $2	4
	Balance as of December 31, 2014, net of tax of $3	$	(5	)
	(Millions of dollars)
	Balance as of December 31, 2012, net of tax of $4	$	(8	)
	Gains (losses) deferred during the year, net of tax of $1	(1		)
	(Gains) losses reclassified to earnings, net of tax of $2	4
	Balance as of December 31, 2013, net of tax of $3	$	(5	)
	(Millions of dollars)
	Balance as of December 31, 2011, net of tax of $3	$	(6	)
	Gains (losses) deferred during the year, net of tax of $0	1
	(Gains) losses reclassified to earnings, net of tax of $(1)	(3		)
	Balance as of December 31, 2012, net of tax of $4	$	(8	)
Schedule of effect of derivatives designated as fair value hedging instruments in the Consolidated Statements of Profit	The effect of derivatives designated as hedging instruments on the Consolidated Statements of Profit was as follows:
	Fair Value Hedges
	(Millions of dollars)
					Year Ended December 31, 2014
			Classification		Gains (Losses)				Gains (Losses)
					on Derivatives				on Borrowings
	Interest rate contracts		Other income (expense)		$	(41	)		$	40
					Year Ended December 31, 2013
			Classification		Gains (Losses)				Gains (Losses)
					on Derivatives				on Borrowings
	Interest rate contracts		Other income (expense)		$	(107	)		$	109
					Year Ended December 31, 2012
			Classification		Gains (Losses)				Gains (Losses)
					on Derivatives				on Borrowings
	Interest rate contracts		Other income (expense)		$	(20	)		$	27
Schedule of effect of derivatives designated as cash flow hedging instruments in the Consolidated Statements of Profit
	Cash Flow Hedges
	(Millions of dollars)
					Year Ended December 31, 2014
			Classification		Reclassified from AOCI				Recognized in Earnings
					to Earnings				(Ineffective Portion)
					(Effective Portion)
	Interest rate contracts		Interest expense		$	(6	)		$	—
	Interest rate contracts		Other income (expense)		—				—
					$	(6	)		$	—
					Year Ended December 31, 2013
			Classification		Reclassified from AOCI				Recognized in Earnings
					to Earnings				(Ineffective Portion)
					(Effective Portion)
	Interest rate contracts		Interest expense		$	(6	)		$	—
	Interest rate contracts		Other income (expense)		—				1
					$	(6	)		$	1
					Year Ended December 31, 2012
			Classification		Reclassified from AOCI				Recognized in Earnings
					to Earnings				(Ineffective Portion)
					(Effective Portion)
	Interest rate contracts		Interest expense		$	4			$	—
	Interest rate contracts		Other income (expense)		—				(1		)
					$	4			$	(1	)
Schedule of effect of derivatives not designated as hedging instruments on the Consolidated Statements of Profit	The effect of derivatives not designated as hedging instruments on the Consolidated Statements of Profit was as follows for the years ended December 31:
	Undesignated Derivatives
	(Millions of dollars)
			Classification		2014				2013				2012
	Foreign exchange contracts		Other income (expense)		$	(49	)		$	3			$	7
	Cross currency contracts		Other income (expense)		2				5				(1		)
	Interest rate contracts		Other income (expense)		—				(3		)		—
					$	(47	)		$	5			$	6
Schedule of offsetting of derivative assets and liabilities	The effect of net settlement provisions of the master netting agreements on our derivative balances upon an event of default or a termination event as of December 31, was as follows:
	Offsetting of Derivative Assets and Liabilities
	(Millions of dollars)
				2014				2013				2012
	Derivative Assets
	Gross Amount of Recognized Assets			$	101			$	138			$	238
	Gross Amounts Offset			—				—				—
	Net Amount of Assets(1)			101				138				238
	Gross Amounts Not Offset			(8		)		(9		)		(12		)
	Net Amount			$	93			$	129			$	226
	Derivative Liabilities
	Gross Amount of Recognized Liabilities			$	(23	)		$	(10	)		$	(15	)
	Gross Amounts Offset			—				—				—
	Net Amount of Liabilities(1)			(23		)		(10		)		(15		)
	Gross Amounts Not Offset			8				9				12
	Net Amount			$	(15	)		$	(1	)		$	(3	)
	(1) As presented in the Consolidated Statements of Financial Position.

Income_Taxes_Tables

Income Taxes (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014
Income Tax Disclosure [Abstract]
Components of Profit before income taxes	The components of Profit before income taxes for the years ended December 31, were as follows:
	(Millions of dollars)
			2014				2013				2012
	U.S.		$	207			$	91			$	31
	Non-U.S.		546				603				553
	Total		$	753			$	694			$	584
Components of the Provision for income taxes	The components of the Provision for income taxes were as follows for the years ended December 31:
	(Millions of dollars)
			2014				2013				2012
	Current income tax provision (benefit):
	U.S.		$	14			$	(14	)		$	14
	Non-U.S.		138				183				179
	State (U.S.)		(1		)		—				(2		)
			151				169				191
	Deferred income tax provision (benefit):
	U.S.		44				17				(16		)
	Non-U.S.		13				(18		)		(27		)
	State (U.S.)		1				(1		)		(3		)
			58				(2		)		(46		)
	Total Provision for income taxes		$	209			$	167			$	145
Reconciliation of the U.S. federal statutory rate to effective rate	The actual Provision for income taxes differs from the Provision for income taxes that would result from applying the U.S. statutory rate to Profit before income taxes for the years ended December 31, for the reasons set forth in the following reconciliation:
	(Millions of dollars)
			2014							2013						2012
	Taxes computed at U.S. statutory rates		$	264			35	%		$	243			35	%	$	204		35	%
	(Decreases) increases in taxes resulting from:
	State Income Tax, net of Federal Tax		—				—	%		(1		)		(0.1	)%	(3		)	(0.5	)%
	Subsidiaries' results subject to tax rates other than		(53		)		(7.0	)%		(68		)		(9.8	)%	(50		)	(8.6	)%
	U.S. statutory rates
	Other, net		(2		)		(0.2	)%		(7		)		(1.0	)%	(6		)	(1.0	)%
	Provision for income taxes		$	209			27.8	%		$	167			24.1	%	$	145		24.9	%
Deferred income tax assets and liabilities	The amounts of deferred income taxes at December 31, included in the following lines in our Consolidated Statements of Financial Position were:
	(Millions of dollars)
			2014				2013				2012
	Assets:
	Deferred and refundable income taxes		$	94			$	103			$	104
	Liabilities:
	Deferred income taxes and other liabilities		(668		)		(500		)		(535		)
	Deferred income taxes, net		$	(574	)		$	(397	)		$	(431	)
	Differences between accounting rules and income tax laws cause differences between the bases of certain assets and liabilities for financial reporting and income tax purposes.  The income tax effects of these differences, to the extent they are temporary, are recorded as deferred income tax assets and liabilities netted by tax jurisdiction and taxpayer.
	Our consolidated deferred income taxes consisted of the following components as of December 31:
	(Millions of dollars)
			2014				2013				2012
	Deferred tax assets:
	Allowance for credit losses		$	149			$	144			$	159
	Net operating loss carryforwards		46				56				59
			195				200				218
	Deferred income tax liabilities (primarily lease basis differences)		(514		)		(455		)		(467		)
	Valuation allowance for deferred income tax assets		(3		)		(9		)		(9		)
	Deferred income tax on translation adjustment		(252		)		(133		)		(173		)
	Deferred income taxes, net		$	(574	)		$	(397	)		$	(431	)
Summary of net operating loss carryforwards	As of December 31, 2014, amounts and expiration dates of net operating loss (NOL) carryforwards in various U.S. state taxing jurisdictions were:
	(Millions of dollars)
	2015				2016				2017				2018			2019-2030			Total
	$	—			$	—			$	—			$	6		$	130		$	136
	The gross deferred income tax asset associated with these NOL carryforwards is $11 million as of December 31, 2014, partially offset by a valuation allowance of less than $1 million.  The valuation allowance indicates the loss carryforwards are likely to expire prior to utilization.
	In some U.S. state income tax jurisdictions, we join with other Caterpillar entities in filing combined income tax returns.  In other U.S. state income tax jurisdictions, we file on a separate, stand-alone basis.
	As of December 31, 2014, amounts and expiration dates of NOL carryforwards in various non-U.S. taxing jurisdictions were:
	(Millions of dollars)
	2015				2016				2017				2018			2019-2030			Unlimited		Total
	$	3			$	1			$	—			$	—		$	14		$	139	$	157
	Valuation allowances totaling $2 million have been recorded at certain non-U.S. subsidiaries that have not yet demonstrated consistent and/or sustainable profitability to support the recognition of net deferred income tax assets.
Schedule of unrecognized tax benefits	A reconciliation of the beginning and ending amounts of gross unrecognized income tax benefits for uncertain income tax positions, including positions impacting only the timing of income tax benefits was as follows:
	(Millions of dollars)
			2014				2013				2012
	Reconciliation of unrecognized income tax benefits(1):
	Balance at beginning of year		$	—			$	2			$	—
	Additions for income tax positions related to prior year		—				—				2
	Reductions for income tax positions related to settlements(2)		—				(2		)		—
	Balance at end of year		$	—			$	—			$	2
	Amount that, if recognized, would impact the effective tax rate		$	—			$	—			$	2
	(1) Foreign currency translation amounts are included within each line as applicable.
	(2) Includes cash payment or other reduction of assets to settle liability.

Fair_Value_Measurements_Tables

Fair Value Measurements (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014
Fair Value Disclosures [Abstract]
Assets and liabilities measured at fair value	Assets and liabilities measured on a recurring basis at fair value included in our Consolidated Statements of Financial Position are summarized below:
	(Millions of dollars)
			December 31, 2014
			Level 1			Level 2			Level 3			Total Assets/Liabilities,
												at Fair Value
	Assets
	Derivative financial instruments, net		$	—		$	78		$	—		$	78
	Total Assets		$	—		$	78		$	—		$	78
	Liabilities
	Guarantees		$	—		$	—		$	1		$	1
	Total Liabilities		$	—		$	—		$	1		$	1
			December 31, 2013
			Level 1			Level 2			Level 3			Total Assets/Liabilities,
												at Fair Value
	Assets
	Derivative financial instruments, net		$	—		$	128		$	—		$	128
	Total Assets		$	—		$	128		$	—		$	128
	Liabilities
	Guarantees		$	—		$	—		$	1		$	1
	Total Liabilities		$	—		$	—		$	1		$	1
			December 31, 2012
			Level 1			Level 2			Level 3			Total Assets/Liabilities,
												at Fair Value
	Assets
	Derivative financial instruments, net		$	—		$	223		$	—		$	223
	Total Assets		$	—		$	223		$	—		$	223
	Liabilities
	Guarantees		$	—		$	—		$	2		$	2
	Total Liabilities		$	—		$	—		$	2		$	2
Roll-forwards of assets and liabilities measured at fair value using Level 3 inputs	Below are roll-forwards of assets and liabilities measured at fair value using Level 3 inputs for the years ended December 31, 2014, 2013 and 2012.  These instruments were valued using pricing models that, in management’s judgment, reflect the assumptions of a marketplace participant.
	(Millions of dollars)	Guarantees
	Balance as of December 31, 2011	$	2
	Issuance of guarantees	2
	Expiration of guarantees	(2		)
	Balance as of December 31, 2012	$	2
	Issuance of guarantees	2
	Expiration of guarantees	(3		)
	Balance as of December 31, 2013	$	1
	Issuance of guarantees	1
	Expiration of guarantees	(1		)
	Balance as of December 31, 2014	$	1
Fair values of financial instruments	Please refer to the table below for the fair values of our financial instruments.
	(Millions of dollars)		2014						2013						2012
			Carrying			Fair			Carrying			Fair			Carrying			Fair			Fair	Reference
			Amount			Value			Amount			Value			Amount			Value			Value
																					Levels
	Cash and cash equivalents		$	857		$	857		$	1,320		$	1,320		$	2,080		$	2,080		1
	Foreign currency contracts:
	In a receivable position		$	5		$	5		$	7		$	7		$	10		$	10		2	Note 9
	In a payable position		$	(15	)	$	(15	)	$	(4	)	$	(4	)	$	(5	)	$	(5	)	2	Note 9
	Cross currency contracts
	In a receivable position		$	17		$	17		$	9		$	9		$	—		$	—		2	Note 9
	In a payable position		$	—		$	—		$	—		$	—		$	(1	)	$	(1	)	2	Note 9
	Finance receivables, net		$	21,434		$	21,093		$	20,657		$	20,459		$	20,065		$	19,956		3	Note 3
	(excluding finance leases(1))
	Restricted cash and cash equivalents(2)		$	11		$	11		$	17		$	17		$	19		$	19		1
	Short-term borrowings		$	(4,699	)	$	(4,699	)	$	(3,663	)	$	(3,663	)	$	(4,651	)	$	(4,651	)	1	Note 7
	Long-term debt		$	(24,574	)	$	(25,103	)	$	(25,329	)	$	(25,849	)	$	(25,089	)	$	(26,063	)	2	Note 8
	Interest rate swaps:
	In a net receivable position		$	79		$	79		$	122		$	122		$	228		$	228		2	Note 9
	In a net payable position		$	(8	)	$	(8	)	$	(6	)	$	(6	)	$	(9	)	$	(9	)	2	Note 9
	Guarantees		$	(1	)	$	(1	)	$	(1	)	$	(1	)	$	(2	)	$	(2	)	3	Note 10
	(1) As of December 31, 2014, 2013 and 2012, represents finance leases with a net carrying value of $7.64 billion, $8.02 billion and $8.07 billion, respectively.
	(2) Included in Other assets in the Consolidated Statements of Financial Position.

Transactions_with_Related_Part1

Transactions with Related Parties (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014
Related Party Transactions [Abstract]
Transactions with Related Parties	We have variable amount lending agreements and other notes receivable with Caterpillar.  Under these agreements, we may borrow up to $2.31 billion from Caterpillar, and Caterpillar may borrow up to $1.29 billion from us.  The agreements are in effect for indefinite periods of time and may be changed or terminated by either party with 30 days notice.  We extended a $2 billion committed credit facility to Caterpillar, which expires in February 2019.  Under this agreement, we receive a fee from Caterpillar based on amounts drawn under the credit facility and a commitment fee for the undrawn amounts under the credit facility.  Information concerning these agreements was as follows:
	(Millions of dollars)
		2014		2013		2012
	Notes payable as of December 31,	$	1,108	$	1,118	$	208
	Notes receivable as of December 31,	$	414	$	345	$	360
	Interest expense	$	7	$	7	$	4
	Interest income on Notes Receivable with Caterpillar(1)	$	18	$	19	$	21
	Fees on committed credit facility extended to Caterpillar(1)	$	41	$	41	$	41
	(1) Included in Other revenues, net in the Consolidated Statements of Profit.
	We have agreements with Caterpillar to purchase certain trade receivables at a discount. Information pertaining to these purchases was as follows:
	(Millions of dollars)
		2014		2013		2012
	Purchases made	$	36,816	$	33,018	$	36,665
	Discounts earned	$	243	$	233	$	241
	Balance as of December 31,	$	3,238	$	3,092	$	3,114

Leases_Tables

Leases (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014
Leases [Abstract]
Minimum payments for operating leases having initial non-cancelable terms in excess of one year	At December 31, 2014, minimum payments for operating leases having initial non-cancelable terms in excess of one year were as follows:
	(Millions of dollars)
	2015	$	16
	2016	13
	2017	12
	2018	11
	2019	10
	Thereafter	21
	Total	$	83

Segment_Information_Tables

Segment Information (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014
Segment Reporting [Abstract]
Segment Information	Supplemental segment data and reconciliations to consolidated external reporting for the years ended December 31 was as follows:
	(Millions of dollars)	Revenues			Segment			Interest			Depreciation		Provision			Segment			Capital
					Profit			Expense			on equipment		for			Assets at			expenditures
											leased to		credit			December 31,
											others		losses			2014
	2014
	North America	$	1,067		$	355		$	240		$	361	$	3		$	13,661		$	1,077
	Europe and CPF	498			134			88			98		50			7,601			133
	Asia/Pacific	368			129			116			24		35			4,767			34
	Latin America	449			124			130			114		22			4,676			111
	Mining	461			64			65			272		29			3,161			269
	Total Segments	2,843			806			639			869		139			33,866			1,624
	Unallocated	70			(82		)	48			1		2			1,648			1
	Timing	(28		)	(8		)	—			—		(2		)	120			2
	Methodology	—			37			(56		)	—		—			(215		)	—
	Inter-segment Eliminations	—			—			—			—		—			(243		)	—
	Total	$	2,885		$	753		$	631		$	870	$	139		$	35,176		$	1,627
		Revenues			Segment			Interest			Depreciation		Provision			Segment			Capital
	2013				Profit			Expense			on equipment		for			Assets at			expenditures
											leased to		credit			December 31,
											others		losses			2013
	North America	$	946		$	283		$	259		$	293	$	—		$	12,160		$	782
	Europe and CPF	505			146			110			86		47			8,068			242
	Asia/Pacific	399			156			135			25		9			5,251			54
	Latin America	414			89			137			93		35			4,947			272
	Mining	474			85			79			272		12			3,441			469
	Total Segments	2,738			759			720			769		103			33,867			1,819
	Unallocated	73			(73		)	53			1		2			1,595			1
	Timing	(26		)	(10		)	—			—		(4		)	68			2
	Methodology	—			18			(39		)	—		—			(189		)	—
	Inter-segment Eliminations	—			—			—			—		—			(227		)	—
	Total	$	2,785		$	694		$	734		$	770	$	101		$	35,114		$	1,822
		Revenues			Segment			Interest			Depreciation		Provision			Segment			Capital
					Profit			Expense			on equipment		for			Assets at			expenditures
	2012										leased to		credit			December 31,
											others		losses			2012
	North America	$	938		$	264		$	270		$	274	$	15		$	11,309		$	565
	Europe and CPF	467			84			134			76		65			7,785			243
	Asia/Pacific	399			134			155			23		24			6,144			133
	Latin America	389			109			141			64		28			4,969			172
	Mining	451			60			90			250		27			3,212			545
	Total Segments	2,644			651			790			687		159			33,419			1,658
	Unallocated	73			(93		)	61			1		1			1,529			—
	Timing	(24		)	(6		)	—			—		3			17			2
	Methodology	—			32			(50		)	—		—			(61		)	—
	Inter-segment Eliminations	—			—			—			—		—			(169		)	—
	Total	$	2,693		$	584		$	801		$	688	$	163		$	34,735		$	1,660
Revenue and Equipment, Inside and outside the United States	Inside and outside the United States:
	(Millions of dollars)
			2014			2013			2012
	Revenues
	Inside U.S.		$	1,219		$	1,045		$	1,009
	Inside Canada		259			329			330
	Inside Australia		261			287			302
	All other		1,146			1,124			1,052
	Total		$	2,885		$	2,785		$	2,693
	Equipment on Operating Leases and Non-Leased		2014			2013			2012
	Equipment (included in Other Assets), Net
	Inside U.S.		$	1,696		$	1,437		$	1,204
	Inside Canada		756			729			741
	Inside Australia		358			434			341
	All other		896			1,037			788
	Total		$	3,706		$	3,637		$	3,074

Selected_Quarterly_Financial_D1

Selected Quarterly Financial Data (Unaudited) (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014
Quarterly Financial Information Disclosure [Abstract]
Selected quarterly financial data (unaudited)
	(Millions of dollars)
	2014	First quarter		Second quarter		Third quarter		Fourth quarter
	Total revenues	$	711	$	728	$	743	$	703
	Profit before income taxes	$	182	$	208	$	197	$	166
	Profit	$	131	$	148	$	148	$	108
	2013	First quarter		Second quarter		Third quarter		Fourth quarter
	Total revenues	$	680	$	695	$	699	$	711
	Profit before income taxes	$	185	$	141	$	164	$	204
	Profit	$	140	$	98	$	117	$	158

Summary_of_Significant_Account2

Summary of Significant Accounting Policies (Details)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014
	Rate
Ownership percentage of investments in companies below which the entity must exercise significant infuence in order to be accounted for under the equity method	20.00%
Ownership percentage of investments in companies below which the entity does not exercise significant influence and are accounted for under the cost method	20.00%
Period after which collection of future income is considered as not probable	120 days
Period after which unpaid installments are considered as past due	30 days
Minimum
Ownership percentage of investments in companies accounted for under the equity method	20.00%
Maximum
Ownership percentage of investments in companies accounted for under the equity method	50.00%

Summary_of_Significant_Account3

Summary of Significant Accounting Policies (Details 2) (Equipment on operating leases)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014
Minimum
Depreciation
Lease term used to calculate depreciation	1 year
Maximum
Depreciation
Lease term used to calculate depreciation	7 years

Accumulated_Other_Comprehensiv2

Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income/(Loss) (Details) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Millions, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) [Line Items]
Balance at beginning of year	$117	$176
Other comprehensive income/(loss) before reclassifications	-485	-63
Amounts reclassified from accumulated other comprehensive income/(loss)	4	4
Other comprehensive income/(loss)	-481	-59
Balance at end of year	-364	117
Foreign currency translation
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) [Line Items]
Balance at beginning of year	122	184
Other comprehensive income/(loss) before reclassifications	-481	-62
Amounts reclassified from accumulated other comprehensive income/(loss)	0	0
Other comprehensive income/(loss)	-481	-62
Balance at end of year	-359	122
Derivative financial instruments
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) [Line Items]
Balance at beginning of year	-5	-8
Other comprehensive income/(loss) before reclassifications	-4	-1
Amounts reclassified from accumulated other comprehensive income/(loss)	4	4
Other comprehensive income/(loss)	0	3
Balance at end of year	($5)	($5)

Accumulated_Other_Comprehensiv3

Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income/(Loss) (Details 2) (USD $)	3 Months Ended								12 Months Ended
In Millions, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2014	Sep. 30, 2014	Jun. 30, 2014	Mar. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Sep. 30, 2013	Jun. 30, 2013	Mar. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2014		Dec. 31, 2013		Dec. 31, 2012
Reclassification Adjustment out of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income on Derivatives [Line Items]
Other income (expense)									($22)		($35)		($12)
Interest Expense									-631		-734		-801
Tax (provision) benefit									-209		-167		-145
Total reclassifications from Accumulated other comprehensive income/(loss)	108	148	148	131	158	117	98	140	535	[1]	513	[1]	428	[1]
Reclassifications out of Accumulated other comprehensive income/(loss) | Derivative financial instruments
Reclassification Adjustment out of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income on Derivatives [Line Items]
Reclassifications before tax									-6		-6
Tax (provision) benefit									2		2
Total reclassifications from Accumulated other comprehensive income/(loss)									-4		-4
Reclassifications out of Accumulated other comprehensive income/(loss) | Derivative financial instruments | Foreign exchange contracts
Reclassification Adjustment out of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income on Derivatives [Line Items]
Other income (expense)									0		0
Reclassifications out of Accumulated other comprehensive income/(loss) | Derivative financial instruments | Interest rate contracts
Reclassification Adjustment out of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income on Derivatives [Line Items]
Interest Expense									($6)		($6)
[1]	Profit attributable to Caterpillar Financial Services Corporation.

Financing_Activities_Details

Financing Activities (Details) (USD $)	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012	Dec. 31, 2011
In Millions, unless otherwise specified
Accounts, Notes, Loans and Financing Receivable
Amounts due in 2015	$13,591
Amounts due in 2016	6,495
Amounts due in 2017	4,569
Amounts due in 2018	2,252
Amounts due in 2019	1,253
Amounts due thereafter	1,117
Total amounts due	29,277
Guaranteed residual value	421
Unguaranteed residual value	660
Less: Unearned income	-883	-976	-998
Total gross finance receivables	29,475	29,066	28,568
Less: Allowance for credit losses	-401	-387	-429	-371
Total net finance receivables	29,074	28,679	28,139
Retail Installment Sale Contracts
Accounts, Notes, Loans and Financing Receivable
Amounts due in 2015	2,420
Amounts due in 2016	1,828
Amounts due in 2017	1,246
Amounts due in 2018	623
Amounts due in 2019	189
Amounts due thereafter	13
Total amounts due	6,319
Guaranteed residual value	0
Unguaranteed residual value	0
Less: Unearned income	-113
Total gross finance receivables	6,206
Wholesale Installment Sale Contracts
Accounts, Notes, Loans and Financing Receivable
Amounts due in 2015	88
Amounts due in 2016	17
Amounts due in 2017	8
Amounts due in 2018	3
Amounts due in 2019	0
Amounts due thereafter	0
Total amounts due	116
Guaranteed residual value	0
Unguaranteed residual value	0
Less: Unearned income	0
Total gross finance receivables	116
Retail Finance Leases
Accounts, Notes, Loans and Financing Receivable
Amounts due in 2015	2,999
Amounts due in 2016	2,096
Amounts due in 2017	1,184
Amounts due in 2018	524
Amounts due in 2019	213
Amounts due thereafter	132
Total amounts due	7,148
Guaranteed residual value	352
Unguaranteed residual value	636
Less: Unearned income	-639
Total gross finance receivables	7,497
Wholesale Finance Leases
Accounts, Notes, Loans and Financing Receivable
Amounts due in 2015	67
Amounts due in 2016	54
Amounts due in 2017	33
Amounts due in 2018	16
Amounts due in 2019	3
Amounts due thereafter	2
Total amounts due	175
Guaranteed residual value	69
Unguaranteed residual value	24
Less: Unearned income	-20
Total gross finance receivables	248
Retail Notes
Accounts, Notes, Loans and Financing Receivable
Amounts due in 2015	3,984
Amounts due in 2016	2,238
Amounts due in 2017	1,896
Amounts due in 2018	1,069
Amounts due in 2019	848
Amounts due thereafter	970
Total amounts due	11,005
Guaranteed residual value	0
Unguaranteed residual value	0
Less: Unearned income	-87
Total gross finance receivables	10,918
Wholesale Notes
Accounts, Notes, Loans and Financing Receivable
Amounts due in 2015	4,033
Amounts due in 2016	262
Amounts due in 2017	202
Amounts due in 2018	17
Amounts due in 2019	0
Amounts due thereafter	0
Total amounts due	4,514
Guaranteed residual value	0
Unguaranteed residual value	0
Less: Unearned income	-24
Total gross finance receivables	$4,490

Financing_Activities_Details_2

Financing Activities (Details 2) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Millions, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
Customer
Financing Receivable, Impaired
Recorded Investment With No Allowance Recorded	$252	$446	$378
Unpaid Principal Balance With No Allowance Recorded	250	443	377
Related Allowance With No Allowance Recorded	0	0	0
Recorded Investment With An Allowance Recorded	362	193	221
Unpaid Principal Balance With An Allowance Recorded	360	188	213
Related Allowance	75	73	56
Recorded Investment, Total	614	639	599
Unpaid Principal Balance, Total	610	631	590
Related Allowance, Total	75	73	56
Average Recorded Investment With No Allowance Recorded	333	421	332
Interest Income Recognized With No Allowance Recorded	11	12	6
Average Recorded Investment With An Allowance Recorded	275	246	193
Interest Income Recognized With An Allowance Recorded	12	6	5
Average Recorded Investment, Total	608	667	525
Interest Income Recognized, Total	23	18	11
Customer | North America
Financing Receivable, Impaired
Recorded Investment With No Allowance Recorded	14	23	28
Unpaid Principal Balance With No Allowance Recorded	14	22	27
Related Allowance With No Allowance Recorded	0	0	0
Recorded Investment With An Allowance Recorded	6	13	25
Unpaid Principal Balance With An Allowance Recorded	6	13	23
Related Allowance	1	4	7
Recorded Investment, Total	20	36	53
Unpaid Principal Balance, Total	20	35	50
Related Allowance, Total	1	4	7
Average Recorded Investment With No Allowance Recorded	20	25	50
Interest Income Recognized With No Allowance Recorded	1	3	3
Average Recorded Investment With An Allowance Recorded	9	18	25
Interest Income Recognized With An Allowance Recorded	0	1	1
Average Recorded Investment, Total	29	43	75
Interest Income Recognized, Total	1	4	4
Customer | Europe
Financing Receivable, Impaired
Recorded Investment With No Allowance Recorded	44	48	45
Unpaid Principal Balance With No Allowance Recorded	43	47	45
Related Allowance With No Allowance Recorded	0	0	0
Recorded Investment With An Allowance Recorded	12	20	28
Unpaid Principal Balance With An Allowance Recorded	12	19	26
Related Allowance	4	7	11
Recorded Investment, Total	56	68	73
Unpaid Principal Balance, Total	55	66	71
Related Allowance, Total	4	7	11
Average Recorded Investment With No Allowance Recorded	47	49	45
Interest Income Recognized With No Allowance Recorded	1	1	1
Average Recorded Investment With An Allowance Recorded	21	22	27
Interest Income Recognized With An Allowance Recorded	1	1	1
Average Recorded Investment, Total	68	71	72
Interest Income Recognized, Total	2	2	2
Customer | Asia/Pacific
Financing Receivable, Impaired
Recorded Investment With No Allowance Recorded	2	7	2
Unpaid Principal Balance With No Allowance Recorded	2	7	2
Related Allowance With No Allowance Recorded	0	0	0
Recorded Investment With An Allowance Recorded	29	17	19
Unpaid Principal Balance With An Allowance Recorded	29	17	19
Related Allowance	8	2	4
Recorded Investment, Total	31	24	21
Unpaid Principal Balance, Total	31	24	21
Related Allowance, Total	8	2	4
Average Recorded Investment With No Allowance Recorded	3	4	3
Interest Income Recognized With No Allowance Recorded	0	0	0
Average Recorded Investment With An Allowance Recorded	23	18	15
Interest Income Recognized With An Allowance Recorded	1	1	1
Average Recorded Investment, Total	26	22	18
Interest Income Recognized, Total	1	1	1
Customer | Mining
Financing Receivable, Impaired
Recorded Investment With No Allowance Recorded	29	134	1
Unpaid Principal Balance With No Allowance Recorded	29	134	1
Related Allowance With No Allowance Recorded	0	0	0
Recorded Investment With An Allowance Recorded	138	0	0
Unpaid Principal Balance With An Allowance Recorded	137	0	0
Related Allowance	9	0	0
Recorded Investment, Total	167	134	1
Unpaid Principal Balance, Total	166	134	1
Related Allowance, Total	9	0	0
Average Recorded Investment With No Allowance Recorded	69	61	8
Interest Income Recognized With No Allowance Recorded	3	3	0
Average Recorded Investment With An Allowance Recorded	90	1	0
Interest Income Recognized With An Allowance Recorded	7	0	0
Average Recorded Investment, Total	159	62	8
Interest Income Recognized, Total	10	3	0
Customer | Latin America
Financing Receivable, Impaired
Recorded Investment With No Allowance Recorded	34	11	7
Unpaid Principal Balance With No Allowance Recorded	34	11	7
Related Allowance With No Allowance Recorded	0	0	0
Recorded Investment With An Allowance Recorded	42	33	36
Unpaid Principal Balance With An Allowance Recorded	42	33	36
Related Allowance	12	9	10
Recorded Investment, Total	76	44	43
Unpaid Principal Balance, Total	76	44	43
Related Allowance, Total	12	9	10
Average Recorded Investment With No Allowance Recorded	30	11	6
Interest Income Recognized With No Allowance Recorded	0	0	0
Average Recorded Investment With An Allowance Recorded	36	52	32
Interest Income Recognized With An Allowance Recorded	1	2	2
Average Recorded Investment, Total	66	63	38
Interest Income Recognized, Total	1	2	2
Customer | Caterpillar Power Finance
Financing Receivable, Impaired
Recorded Investment With No Allowance Recorded	129	223	295
Unpaid Principal Balance With No Allowance Recorded	128	222	295
Related Allowance With No Allowance Recorded	0	0	0
Recorded Investment With An Allowance Recorded	135	110	113
Unpaid Principal Balance With An Allowance Recorded	134	106	109
Related Allowance	41	51	24
Recorded Investment, Total	264	333	408
Unpaid Principal Balance, Total	262	328	404
Related Allowance, Total	41	51	24
Average Recorded Investment With No Allowance Recorded	164	271	220
Interest Income Recognized With No Allowance Recorded	6	5	2
Average Recorded Investment With An Allowance Recorded	96	135	94
Interest Income Recognized With An Allowance Recorded	2	1	0
Average Recorded Investment, Total	260	406	314
Interest Income Recognized, Total	8	6	2
Dealer
Financing Receivable, Impaired
Recorded Investment, Total	0	0	0
Average Recorded Investment, Total	0	0	0
Caterpillar Purchased Receivables
Financing Receivable, Impaired
Recorded Investment, Total	0	0	0
Average Recorded Investment, Total	$0	$0	$0

Financing_Activities_Details_3

Financing Activities (Details 3) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Millions, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
Receivables [Abstract]
Period after which unpaid installments are considered as past due	30 days
Period after which collection of future income is considered as not probable	120 days
Financing Receivable, Recorded Investment, Past Due
31-60 Days Past Due	$208	$258	$206
61-90 Days Past Due	91	134	73
91 Plus Days Past Due	403	384	436
Total Past Due	702	776	715
Current	28,773	28,290	27,853
Total gross finance receivables	29,475	29,066	28,568
91 Plus, Still Accruing	38	33	37
Investment in loans and finance leases on non-accrual status	468	456	528
North America
Financing Receivable, Recorded Investment, Past Due
Total gross finance receivables	12,526	11,186	10,271
Europe
Financing Receivable, Recorded Investment, Past Due
Total gross finance receivables	3,581	3,871	3,539
Asia/Pacific
Financing Receivable, Recorded Investment, Past Due
Total gross finance receivables	3,931	4,492	5,282
Mining
Financing Receivable, Recorded Investment, Past Due
Total gross finance receivables	2,126	2,148	1,974
Latin America
Financing Receivable, Recorded Investment, Past Due
Total gross finance receivables	4,141	4,269	4,319
Caterpillar Power Finance
Financing Receivable, Recorded Investment, Past Due
Total gross finance receivables	3,170	3,100	3,183
Customer
Financing Receivable, Recorded Investment, Past Due
Total gross finance receivables	21,068	20,720	19,868
Customer | North America
Financing Receivable, Recorded Investment, Past Due
31-60 Days Past Due	46	37	35
61-90 Days Past Due	8	12	8
91 Plus Days Past Due	27	24	52
Total Past Due	81	73	95
Current	7,291	6,507	5,889
Total gross finance receivables	7,372	6,580	5,984
91 Plus, Still Accruing	4	6	3
Investment in loans and finance leases on non-accrual status	27	26	59
Customer | Europe
Financing Receivable, Recorded Investment, Past Due
31-60 Days Past Due	16	26	23
61-90 Days Past Due	23	15	9
91 Plus Days Past Due	29	29	36
Total Past Due	68	70	68
Current	2,607	2,805	2,487
Total gross finance receivables	2,675	2,875	2,555
91 Plus, Still Accruing	6	8	9
Investment in loans and finance leases on non-accrual status	28	28	38
Customer | Asia/Pacific
Financing Receivable, Recorded Investment, Past Due
31-60 Days Past Due	29	55	53
61-90 Days Past Due	22	46	19
91 Plus Days Past Due	69	59	54
Total Past Due	120	160	126
Current	2,773	3,158	3,343
Total gross finance receivables	2,893	3,318	3,469
91 Plus, Still Accruing	16	11	18
Investment in loans and finance leases on non-accrual status	54	50	36
Customer | Mining
Financing Receivable, Recorded Investment, Past Due
31-60 Days Past Due	28	3	0
61-90 Days Past Due	0	0	1
91 Plus Days Past Due	11	12	12
Total Past Due	39	15	13
Current	2,084	2,128	1,960
Total gross finance receivables	2,123	2,143	1,973
91 Plus, Still Accruing	0	0	0
Investment in loans and finance leases on non-accrual status	62	23	12
Customer | Latin America
Financing Receivable, Recorded Investment, Past Due
31-60 Days Past Due	55	54	62
61-90 Days Past Due	23	25	19
91 Plus Days Past Due	196	196	153
Total Past Due	274	275	234
Current	2,583	2,438	2,481
Total gross finance receivables	2,857	2,713	2,715
91 Plus, Still Accruing	8	5	0
Investment in loans and finance leases on non-accrual status	201	210	163
Customer | Caterpillar Power Finance
Financing Receivable, Recorded Investment, Past Due
31-60 Days Past Due	1	55	15
61-90 Days Past Due	4	30	14
91 Plus Days Past Due	64	60	126
Total Past Due	69	145	155
Current	3,079	2,946	3,017
Total gross finance receivables	3,148	3,091	3,172
91 Plus, Still Accruing	1	0	4
Investment in loans and finance leases on non-accrual status	96	119	220
Dealer
Financing Receivable, Recorded Investment, Past Due
Total gross finance receivables	5,169	5,254	5,586
Investment in loans and finance leases on non-accrual status	0	0	0
Dealer | North America
Financing Receivable, Recorded Investment, Past Due
31-60 Days Past Due	0	0	0
61-90 Days Past Due	0	0	0
91 Plus Days Past Due	0	0	0
Total Past Due	0	0	0
Current	3,209	3,034	2,931
Total gross finance receivables	3,209	3,034	2,931
91 Plus, Still Accruing	0	0	0
Dealer | Europe
Financing Receivable, Recorded Investment, Past Due
31-60 Days Past Due	0	0	0
61-90 Days Past Due	0	0	0
91 Plus Days Past Due	0	0	0
Total Past Due	0	0	0
Current	467	569	652
Total gross finance receivables	467	569	652
91 Plus, Still Accruing	0	0	0
Dealer | Asia/Pacific
Financing Receivable, Recorded Investment, Past Due
31-60 Days Past Due	0	0	0
61-90 Days Past Due	0	0	0
91 Plus Days Past Due	0	0	0
Total Past Due	0	0	0
Current	637	706	945
Total gross finance receivables	637	706	945
91 Plus, Still Accruing	0	0	0
Dealer | Mining
Financing Receivable, Recorded Investment, Past Due
31-60 Days Past Due	0	0	0
61-90 Days Past Due	0	0	0
91 Plus Days Past Due	0	0	0
Total Past Due	0	0	0
Current	3	5	1
Total gross finance receivables	3	5	1
91 Plus, Still Accruing	0	0	0
Dealer | Latin America
Financing Receivable, Recorded Investment, Past Due
31-60 Days Past Due	0	0	0
61-90 Days Past Due	0	0	0
91 Plus Days Past Due	0	0	0
Total Past Due	0	0	0
Current	853	940	1,057
Total gross finance receivables	853	940	1,057
91 Plus, Still Accruing	0	0	0
Dealer | Caterpillar Power Finance
Financing Receivable, Recorded Investment, Past Due
31-60 Days Past Due	0	0	0
61-90 Days Past Due	0	0	0
91 Plus Days Past Due	0	0	0
Total Past Due	0	0	0
Current	0	0	0
Total gross finance receivables	0	0	0
91 Plus, Still Accruing	0	0	0
Caterpillar Purchased Receivables
Financing Receivable, Recorded Investment, Past Due
Total gross finance receivables	3,238	3,092	3,114
Investment in loans and finance leases on non-accrual status		0	0
Caterpillar Purchased Receivables | North America
Financing Receivable, Recorded Investment, Past Due
31-60 Days Past Due	23	26	17
61-90 Days Past Due	5	5	3
91 Plus Days Past Due	1	2	2
Total Past Due	29	33	22
Current	1,916	1,539	1,334
Total gross finance receivables	1,945	1,572	1,356
91 Plus, Still Accruing	1	2	2
Caterpillar Purchased Receivables | Europe
Financing Receivable, Recorded Investment, Past Due
31-60 Days Past Due	4	2	1
61-90 Days Past Due	1	1	0
91 Plus Days Past Due	5	1	0
Total Past Due	10	4	1
Current	429	423	331
Total gross finance receivables	439	427	332
91 Plus, Still Accruing	1	0	0
Investment in loans and finance leases on non-accrual status	4
Caterpillar Purchased Receivables | Asia/Pacific
Financing Receivable, Recorded Investment, Past Due
31-60 Days Past Due	0	0	0
61-90 Days Past Due	0	0	0
91 Plus Days Past Due	0	0	0
Total Past Due	0	0	0
Current	401	468	868
Total gross finance receivables	401	468	868
91 Plus, Still Accruing	0	0	0
Caterpillar Purchased Receivables | Mining
Financing Receivable, Recorded Investment, Past Due
31-60 Days Past Due	0	0	0
61-90 Days Past Due	0	0	0
91 Plus Days Past Due	0	0	0
Total Past Due	0	0	0
Current	0	0	0
Total gross finance receivables	0	0	0
91 Plus, Still Accruing	0	0	0
Caterpillar Purchased Receivables | Latin America
Financing Receivable, Recorded Investment, Past Due
31-60 Days Past Due	6	0	0
61-90 Days Past Due	5	0	0
91 Plus Days Past Due	0	0	0
Total Past Due	11	0	0
Current	420	616	547
Total gross finance receivables	431	616	547
91 Plus, Still Accruing	0	0	0
Caterpillar Purchased Receivables | Caterpillar Power Finance
Financing Receivable, Recorded Investment, Past Due
31-60 Days Past Due	0	0	0
61-90 Days Past Due	0	0	0
91 Plus Days Past Due	1	1	1
Total Past Due	1	1	1
Current	21	8	10
Total gross finance receivables	22	9	11
91 Plus, Still Accruing	$1	$1	$1

Financing_Activities_Details_4

Financing Activities (Details 4) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Millions, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
Financing Receivable, Allowance for Credit Losses
Balance at beginning of year	$387	$429	$371
Receivables written off	-146	-180	-150
Recoveries on receivables previously written off	47	56	47
Provision for credit losses	136	91	162
Adjustment due to sale of receivables	-3	-3	-2
Foreign currency translation adjustment	-20	-6	1
Balance at end of year	401	387	429
Allowance for Credit Losses
Individually evaluated for impairment	75	73	56
Collectively evaluated for impairment	326	314	373
Allowance, Ending balance	401	387	429
Recorded Investment in Finance Receivables
Individually evaluated for impairment	614	639	599
Collectively evaluated for impairment	28,861	28,427	27,969
Total gross finance receivables	29,475	29,066	28,568
Customer
Financing Receivable, Allowance for Credit Losses
Balance at beginning of year	374	417	362
Receivables written off	-146	-180	-150
Recoveries on receivables previously written off	47	56	47
Provision for credit losses	136	90	159
Adjustment due to sale of receivables	-3	-3	-2
Foreign currency translation adjustment	-20	-6	1
Balance at end of year	388	374	417
Allowance for Credit Losses
Individually evaluated for impairment	75	73	56
Collectively evaluated for impairment	313	301	361
Allowance, Ending balance	388	374	417
Recorded Investment in Finance Receivables
Individually evaluated for impairment	614	639	599
Collectively evaluated for impairment	20,454	20,081	19,269
Total gross finance receivables	21,068	20,720	19,868
Dealer
Financing Receivable, Allowance for Credit Losses
Balance at beginning of year	10	9	6
Receivables written off	0	0	0
Recoveries on receivables previously written off	0	0	0
Provision for credit losses	0	1	3
Adjustment due to sale of receivables	0	0	0
Foreign currency translation adjustment	0	0	0
Balance at end of year	10	10	9
Allowance for Credit Losses
Individually evaluated for impairment	0	0	0
Collectively evaluated for impairment	10	10	9
Allowance, Ending balance	10	10	9
Recorded Investment in Finance Receivables
Individually evaluated for impairment	0	0	0
Collectively evaluated for impairment	5,169	5,254	5,586
Total gross finance receivables	5,169	5,254	5,586
Caterpillar Purchased Receivables
Financing Receivable, Allowance for Credit Losses
Balance at beginning of year	3	3	3
Receivables written off	0	0	0
Recoveries on receivables previously written off	0	0	0
Provision for credit losses	0	0	0
Adjustment due to sale of receivables	0	0	0
Foreign currency translation adjustment	0	0	0
Balance at end of year	3	3	3
Allowance for Credit Losses
Individually evaluated for impairment	0	0	0
Collectively evaluated for impairment	3	3	3
Allowance, Ending balance	3	3	3
Recorded Investment in Finance Receivables
Individually evaluated for impairment	0	0	0
Collectively evaluated for impairment	3,238	3,092	3,114
Total gross finance receivables	$3,238	$3,092	$3,114

Financing_Activities_Details_5

Financing Activities (Details 5) (USD $)	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
In Millions, unless otherwise specified
Recorded investment in finance receivables
Recorded Investment in Finance Receivables, Ending Balance	$29,475	$29,066	$28,568
Performing
Recorded investment in finance receivables
Recorded Investment in Finance Receivables, Ending Balance	29,003	28,610	28,040
Nonperforming
Recorded investment in finance receivables
Recorded Investment in Finance Receivables, Ending Balance	472	456	528
North America
Recorded investment in finance receivables
Recorded Investment in Finance Receivables, Ending Balance	12,526	11,186	10,271
North America | Performing
Recorded investment in finance receivables
Recorded Investment in Finance Receivables, Ending Balance	12,499	11,160	10,212
North America | Nonperforming
Recorded investment in finance receivables
Recorded Investment in Finance Receivables, Ending Balance	27	26	59
Europe
Recorded investment in finance receivables
Recorded Investment in Finance Receivables, Ending Balance	3,581	3,871	3,539
Europe | Performing
Recorded investment in finance receivables
Recorded Investment in Finance Receivables, Ending Balance	3,549	3,843	3,501
Europe | Nonperforming
Recorded investment in finance receivables
Recorded Investment in Finance Receivables, Ending Balance	32	28	38
Asia/Pacific
Recorded investment in finance receivables
Recorded Investment in Finance Receivables, Ending Balance	3,931	4,492	5,282
Asia/Pacific | Performing
Recorded investment in finance receivables
Recorded Investment in Finance Receivables, Ending Balance	3,877	4,442	5,246
Asia/Pacific | Nonperforming
Recorded investment in finance receivables
Recorded Investment in Finance Receivables, Ending Balance	54	50	36
Mining
Recorded investment in finance receivables
Recorded Investment in Finance Receivables, Ending Balance	2,126	2,148	1,974
Mining | Performing
Recorded investment in finance receivables
Recorded Investment in Finance Receivables, Ending Balance	2,064	2,125	1,962
Mining | Nonperforming
Recorded investment in finance receivables
Recorded Investment in Finance Receivables, Ending Balance	62	23	12
Latin America
Recorded investment in finance receivables
Recorded Investment in Finance Receivables, Ending Balance	4,141	4,269	4,319
Latin America | Performing
Recorded investment in finance receivables
Recorded Investment in Finance Receivables, Ending Balance	3,940	4,059	4,156
Latin America | Nonperforming
Recorded investment in finance receivables
Recorded Investment in Finance Receivables, Ending Balance	201	210	163
Caterpillar Power Finance
Recorded investment in finance receivables
Recorded Investment in Finance Receivables, Ending Balance	3,170	3,100	3,183
Caterpillar Power Finance | Performing
Recorded investment in finance receivables
Recorded Investment in Finance Receivables, Ending Balance	3,074	2,981	2,963
Caterpillar Power Finance | Nonperforming
Recorded investment in finance receivables
Recorded Investment in Finance Receivables, Ending Balance	96	119	220
Customer
Recorded investment in finance receivables
Recorded Investment in Finance Receivables, Ending Balance	21,068	20,720	19,868
Customer | Performing
Recorded investment in finance receivables
Recorded Investment in Finance Receivables, Ending Balance	20,600	20,264	19,340
Customer | Nonperforming
Recorded investment in finance receivables
Recorded Investment in Finance Receivables, Ending Balance	468	456	528
Customer | North America
Recorded investment in finance receivables
Recorded Investment in Finance Receivables, Ending Balance	7,372	6,580	5,984
Customer | North America | Performing
Recorded investment in finance receivables
Recorded Investment in Finance Receivables, Ending Balance	7,345	6,554	5,925
Customer | North America | Nonperforming
Recorded investment in finance receivables
Recorded Investment in Finance Receivables, Ending Balance	27	26	59
Customer | Europe
Recorded investment in finance receivables
Recorded Investment in Finance Receivables, Ending Balance	2,675	2,875	2,555
Customer | Europe | Performing
Recorded investment in finance receivables
Recorded Investment in Finance Receivables, Ending Balance	2,647	2,847	2,517
Customer | Europe | Nonperforming
Recorded investment in finance receivables
Recorded Investment in Finance Receivables, Ending Balance	28	28	38
Customer | Asia/Pacific
Recorded investment in finance receivables
Recorded Investment in Finance Receivables, Ending Balance	2,893	3,318	3,469
Customer | Asia/Pacific | Performing
Recorded investment in finance receivables
Recorded Investment in Finance Receivables, Ending Balance	2,839	3,268	3,433
Customer | Asia/Pacific | Nonperforming
Recorded investment in finance receivables
Recorded Investment in Finance Receivables, Ending Balance	54	50	36
Customer | Mining
Recorded investment in finance receivables
Recorded Investment in Finance Receivables, Ending Balance	2,123	2,143	1,973
Customer | Mining | Performing
Recorded investment in finance receivables
Recorded Investment in Finance Receivables, Ending Balance	2,061	2,120	1,961
Customer | Mining | Nonperforming
Recorded investment in finance receivables
Recorded Investment in Finance Receivables, Ending Balance	62	23	12
Customer | Latin America
Recorded investment in finance receivables
Recorded Investment in Finance Receivables, Ending Balance	2,857	2,713	2,715
Customer | Latin America | Performing
Recorded investment in finance receivables
Recorded Investment in Finance Receivables, Ending Balance	2,656	2,503	2,552
Customer | Latin America | Nonperforming
Recorded investment in finance receivables
Recorded Investment in Finance Receivables, Ending Balance	201	210	163
Customer | Caterpillar Power Finance
Recorded investment in finance receivables
Recorded Investment in Finance Receivables, Ending Balance	3,148	3,091	3,172
Customer | Caterpillar Power Finance | Performing
Recorded investment in finance receivables
Recorded Investment in Finance Receivables, Ending Balance	3,052	2,972	2,952
Customer | Caterpillar Power Finance | Nonperforming
Recorded investment in finance receivables
Recorded Investment in Finance Receivables, Ending Balance	96	119	220
Dealer
Recorded investment in finance receivables
Recorded Investment in Finance Receivables, Ending Balance	5,169	5,254	5,586
Dealer | Performing
Recorded investment in finance receivables
Recorded Investment in Finance Receivables, Ending Balance	5,169	5,254	5,586
Dealer | Nonperforming
Recorded investment in finance receivables
Recorded Investment in Finance Receivables, Ending Balance	0	0	0
Dealer | North America
Recorded investment in finance receivables
Recorded Investment in Finance Receivables, Ending Balance	3,209	3,034	2,931
Dealer | North America | Performing
Recorded investment in finance receivables
Recorded Investment in Finance Receivables, Ending Balance	3,209	3,034	2,931
Dealer | North America | Nonperforming
Recorded investment in finance receivables
Recorded Investment in Finance Receivables, Ending Balance	0	0	0
Dealer | Europe
Recorded investment in finance receivables
Recorded Investment in Finance Receivables, Ending Balance	467	569	652
Dealer | Europe | Performing
Recorded investment in finance receivables
Recorded Investment in Finance Receivables, Ending Balance	467	569	652
Dealer | Europe | Nonperforming
Recorded investment in finance receivables
Recorded Investment in Finance Receivables, Ending Balance	0	0	0
Dealer | Asia/Pacific
Recorded investment in finance receivables
Recorded Investment in Finance Receivables, Ending Balance	637	706	945
Dealer | Asia/Pacific | Performing
Recorded investment in finance receivables
Recorded Investment in Finance Receivables, Ending Balance	637	706	945
Dealer | Asia/Pacific | Nonperforming
Recorded investment in finance receivables
Recorded Investment in Finance Receivables, Ending Balance	0	0	0
Dealer | Mining
Recorded investment in finance receivables
Recorded Investment in Finance Receivables, Ending Balance	3	5	1
Dealer | Mining | Performing
Recorded investment in finance receivables
Recorded Investment in Finance Receivables, Ending Balance	3	5	1
Dealer | Mining | Nonperforming
Recorded investment in finance receivables
Recorded Investment in Finance Receivables, Ending Balance	0	0	0
Dealer | Latin America
Recorded investment in finance receivables
Recorded Investment in Finance Receivables, Ending Balance	853	940	1,057
Dealer | Latin America | Performing
Recorded investment in finance receivables
Recorded Investment in Finance Receivables, Ending Balance	853	940	1,057
Dealer | Latin America | Nonperforming
Recorded investment in finance receivables
Recorded Investment in Finance Receivables, Ending Balance	0	0	0
Dealer | Caterpillar Power Finance
Recorded investment in finance receivables
Recorded Investment in Finance Receivables, Ending Balance	0	0	0
Dealer | Caterpillar Power Finance | Performing
Recorded investment in finance receivables
Recorded Investment in Finance Receivables, Ending Balance	0	0	0
Dealer | Caterpillar Power Finance | Nonperforming
Recorded investment in finance receivables
Recorded Investment in Finance Receivables, Ending Balance	0	0	0
Caterpillar Purchased Receivables
Recorded investment in finance receivables
Recorded Investment in Finance Receivables, Ending Balance	3,238	3,092	3,114
Caterpillar Purchased Receivables | Performing
Recorded investment in finance receivables
Recorded Investment in Finance Receivables, Ending Balance	3,234	3,092	3,114
Caterpillar Purchased Receivables | Nonperforming
Recorded investment in finance receivables
Recorded Investment in Finance Receivables, Ending Balance	4	0	0
Caterpillar Purchased Receivables | North America
Recorded investment in finance receivables
Recorded Investment in Finance Receivables, Ending Balance	1,945	1,572	1,356
Caterpillar Purchased Receivables | North America | Performing
Recorded investment in finance receivables
Recorded Investment in Finance Receivables, Ending Balance	1,945	1,572	1,356
Caterpillar Purchased Receivables | North America | Nonperforming
Recorded investment in finance receivables
Recorded Investment in Finance Receivables, Ending Balance	0	0	0
Caterpillar Purchased Receivables | Europe
Recorded investment in finance receivables
Recorded Investment in Finance Receivables, Ending Balance	439	427	332
Caterpillar Purchased Receivables | Europe | Performing
Recorded investment in finance receivables
Recorded Investment in Finance Receivables, Ending Balance	435	427	332
Caterpillar Purchased Receivables | Europe | Nonperforming
Recorded investment in finance receivables
Recorded Investment in Finance Receivables, Ending Balance	4	0	0
Caterpillar Purchased Receivables | Asia/Pacific
Recorded investment in finance receivables
Recorded Investment in Finance Receivables, Ending Balance	401	468	868
Caterpillar Purchased Receivables | Asia/Pacific | Performing
Recorded investment in finance receivables
Recorded Investment in Finance Receivables, Ending Balance	401	468	868
Caterpillar Purchased Receivables | Asia/Pacific | Nonperforming
Recorded investment in finance receivables
Recorded Investment in Finance Receivables, Ending Balance	0	0	0
Caterpillar Purchased Receivables | Mining
Recorded investment in finance receivables
Recorded Investment in Finance Receivables, Ending Balance	0	0	0
Caterpillar Purchased Receivables | Mining | Performing
Recorded investment in finance receivables
Recorded Investment in Finance Receivables, Ending Balance	0	0	0
Caterpillar Purchased Receivables | Mining | Nonperforming
Recorded investment in finance receivables
Recorded Investment in Finance Receivables, Ending Balance	0	0	0
Caterpillar Purchased Receivables | Latin America
Recorded investment in finance receivables
Recorded Investment in Finance Receivables, Ending Balance	431	616	547
Caterpillar Purchased Receivables | Latin America | Performing
Recorded investment in finance receivables
Recorded Investment in Finance Receivables, Ending Balance	431	616	547
Caterpillar Purchased Receivables | Latin America | Nonperforming
Recorded investment in finance receivables
Recorded Investment in Finance Receivables, Ending Balance	0	0	0
Caterpillar Purchased Receivables | Caterpillar Power Finance
Recorded investment in finance receivables
Recorded Investment in Finance Receivables, Ending Balance	22	9	11
Caterpillar Purchased Receivables | Caterpillar Power Finance | Performing
Recorded investment in finance receivables
Recorded Investment in Finance Receivables, Ending Balance	22	9	11
Caterpillar Purchased Receivables | Caterpillar Power Finance | Nonperforming
Recorded investment in finance receivables
Recorded Investment in Finance Receivables, Ending Balance	$0	$0	$0

Financing_Activities_Details_6

Financing Activities (Details 6) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Millions, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
	contracts	contracts	contracts
Loan and finance lease receivables modified as TDRs
Number of Contracts	148	210	199
Pre-TDR Outstanding Recorded Investment	$372	$296	$284
Post-TDR Outstanding Recorded Investment	359	300	284
TDRs with a payment default which had been modified within twelve months prior to the default date
Number of Contracts	68	26	67
Post-TDR Recorded Investment	4	7	26
Additional investments not recorded	0	25	24
Remaining commitments	0
Customer | North America
Loan and finance lease receivables modified as TDRs
Number of Contracts	34	62	98
Pre-TDR Outstanding Recorded Investment	12	9	15
Post-TDR Outstanding Recorded Investment	7	9	15
TDRs with a payment default which had been modified within twelve months prior to the default date
Number of Contracts	11	19	49
Post-TDR Recorded Investment	1	4	4
Customer | Europe
Loan and finance lease receivables modified as TDRs
Number of Contracts	8	51	21
Pre-TDR Outstanding Recorded Investment	7	7	8
Post-TDR Outstanding Recorded Investment	7	7	8
TDRs with a payment default which had been modified within twelve months prior to the default date
Number of Contracts	46	5	0
Post-TDR Recorded Investment	2	0	0
Customer | Asia/Pacific
Loan and finance lease receivables modified as TDRs
Number of Contracts	2	3	12
Pre-TDR Outstanding Recorded Investment	0	1	3
Post-TDR Outstanding Recorded Investment	0	1	3
TDRs with a payment default which had been modified within twelve months prior to the default date
Number of Contracts	0	0	2
Post-TDR Recorded Investment	0	0	1
Customer | Mining
Loan and finance lease receivables modified as TDRs
Number of Contracts	51	45
Pre-TDR Outstanding Recorded Investment	185	123
Post-TDR Outstanding Recorded Investment	176	123
Customer | Latin America
Loan and finance lease receivables modified as TDRs
Number of Contracts	35	32	41
Pre-TDR Outstanding Recorded Investment	31	3	5
Post-TDR Outstanding Recorded Investment	30	3	5
TDRs with a payment default which had been modified within twelve months prior to the default date
Number of Contracts	11	0	0
Post-TDR Recorded Investment	1	0	0
Customer | Caterpillar Power Finance
Loan and finance lease receivables modified as TDRs
Number of Contracts	18	17	27
Pre-TDR Outstanding Recorded Investment	137	153	253
Post-TDR Outstanding Recorded Investment	139	157	253
TDRs with a payment default which had been modified within twelve months prior to the default date
Number of Contracts	0	2	16
Post-TDR Recorded Investment	$0	$3	$21
Dealer
Loan and finance lease receivables modified as TDRs
Number of Contracts	0	0	0
Caterpillar Purchased Receivables
Loan and finance lease receivables modified as TDRs
Number of Contracts	0	0	0

Financing_Activities_Details_7

Financing Activities (Details 7) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Millions, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
Loans Managed, Securitized or Asset-backed Financing Arrangement
Proceeds from sales of finance receivables and equipment on operating leases	$244	$243	$206
Pre-tax gains (losses) on sales of finance receivables and equipment on operating leases	7	4	3
Off balance-sheet managed assets	316	322	291
Servicing liability	1	2	1
Purchases of trade receivables from Caterpillar Entities
Amortization of receivables purchase discount	243	233	241
Retail notes receivable
Loans Managed, Securitized or Asset-backed Financing Arrangement
Off balance-sheet managed assets	121	126	49
Operating leases
Loans Managed, Securitized or Asset-backed Financing Arrangement
Off balance-sheet managed assets	93	61	60
Retail finance leases
Loans Managed, Securitized or Asset-backed Financing Arrangement
Off balance-sheet managed assets	59	103	116
Retail installment sale contracts
Loans Managed, Securitized or Asset-backed Financing Arrangement
Off balance-sheet managed assets	$43	$32	$66

Equipment_on_Operating_Leases_1

Equipment on Operating Leases (Details) (USD $)	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
In Millions, unless otherwise specified
Scheduled minimum rental payments for operating leases
2015	$904
2016	587
2017	333
2018	166
2019	63
Thereafter	15
Total	2,068
Equipment leased to others
Equipment on operating leases
Equipment on operating leases, at cost	5,273	5,127	4,421
Less: Accumulated depreciation	-1,649	-1,583	-1,451
Equipment on operating leases, net	$3,624	$3,544	$2,970

Concentration_of_Credit_Risk_D

Concentration of Credit Risk (Details) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Millions, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
	Rate	Rate	Rate
Concentration Risk
Derivatives, Maximum exposure to credit loss, including accrued interest	123	178	306
Construction related industries
Concentration Risk
Concentration Risk, Percentage	33.00%	33.00%	33.00%
North America
Concentration Risk
Concentration Risk, Percentage	50.00%	40.00%	40.00%

Credit_Commitments_Details

Credit Commitments (Details) (USD $)	6 Months Ended	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
Line of Credit Facility
Number of global credit facilities	3	3
Caterpillar's consolidated net worth	$22,230,000,000	$22,230,000,000
Minimum net worth required under the Credit Facility	9,000,000,000	9,000,000,000
Covenant interest coverage ratio, Numerator		2.19
Covenant interest coverage ratio, Denominator		1
Minimum interest coverage ratio, required by the Credit Facility, Numerator		1.15
Minimum interest coverage ratio, required by the Credit Facility, Denominator		1
Leverage Ratio, Numerator	7.79	7.83
Leverage Ratio, Denominator	1	1
Maximum Leverage Ratio, Permissible Under Credit Facility, Numerator		10
Maximum Leverage Ratio, Permissible Under Credit Facility, Denominator		1
Amount available	10,500,000,000	10,500,000,000
Maximum borrowing capacity from Caterpillar, Variable lending agreements	2,310,000,000	2,310,000,000
Maximum lending capacity to Caterpillar, Variable lending agreements	1,290,000,000	1,290,000,000
Notes receivable from Caterpillar	414,000,000	414,000,000	345,000,000	360,000,000
Notes payable to Caterpillar	1,108,000,000	1,108,000,000	1,118,000,000	208,000,000
Amount available, Committed credit facility extended to Caterpillar	2,000,000,000	2,000,000,000
Amount outstanding, Committed credit facility extended to Caterpillar	0	0
Revolving credit facilities
Line of Credit Facility
Amount outstanding	0	0
Revolving credit facilities | Cat Financial
Line of Credit Facility
Amount available	7,750,000,000	7,750,000,000
364-day facility
Line of Credit Facility
Amount available	3,150,000,000	3,150,000,000
364-day facility | Cat Financial
Line of Credit Facility
Amount available	2,330,000,000	2,330,000,000
Four-year facility
Line of Credit Facility
Amount available	2,730,000,000	2,730,000,000
Four-year facility | Cat Financial
Line of Credit Facility
Amount available	2,010,000,000	2,010,000,000
Five-year facility
Line of Credit Facility
Amount available	4,620,000,000	4,620,000,000
Five-year facility | Cat Financial
Line of Credit Facility
Amount available	3,410,000,000	3,410,000,000
Credit lines with banks
Line of Credit Facility
Amount available	4,060,000,000	4,060,000,000
Amount outstanding	$1,900,000,000	$1,900,000,000	$2,030,000,000

ShortTerm_Borrowings_Details

Short-Term Borrowings (Details) (USD $)	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
In Millions, unless otherwise specified
Short-term Debt
Short-term borrowings, Balance	$4,699	$3,663	$4,651
Commercial paper, net
Short-term Debt
Short-term borrowings, Balance	3,688	2,502	3,654
Short-term borrowings, Avg. Rate	0.30%	0.50%	0.60%
Bank borrowings
Short-term Debt
Short-term borrowings, Balance	411	545	418
Short-term borrowings, Avg. Rate	6.80%	6.40%	5.60%
Variable denomination floating rate demand notes
Short-term Debt
Short-term borrowings, Balance	$600	$616	$579
Short-term borrowings, Avg. Rate	0.80%	0.80%	0.80%

LongTerm_Debt_Details

Long-Term Debt (Details) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
Debt Instrument
Medium-term notes, maximum remaining maturity	12 years
Long-term debt	$24,574,000,000	$25,329,000,000	$25,089,000,000
Long-term debt outstanding maturity:
2015	6,283,000,000
2016	5,507,000,000
2017	5,487,000,000
2018	2,411,000,000
2019	2,381,000,000
Thereafter	2,505,000,000
Total	24,574,000,000	25,329,000,000	25,089,000,000
Medium-term notes
Debt Instrument
Long-term debt issued	5,840,000,000
Long-term debt issued at fixed interest rates	4,460,000,000
Long-term debt issued at floating interest rates	1,380,000,000
Long term debt, gross	23,094,000,000	23,854,000,000	23,500,000,000
Unamortized discount	-4,000,000	-8,000,000	-13,000,000
Long-term debt	23,090,000,000	23,846,000,000	23,487,000,000
Long-term debt, Avg. Rate	2.40%	2.80%	3.20%
Long-term debt outstanding maturity:
Total	23,090,000,000	23,846,000,000	23,487,000,000
Bank borrowings
Debt Instrument
Long-term debt	1,484,000,000	1,483,000,000	1,602,000,000
Long-term debt, Avg. Rate	3.40%	3.20%	4.10%
Long-term debt outstanding maturity:
Total	$1,484,000,000	$1,483,000,000	$1,602,000,000

Derivative_Financial_Instrumen2

Derivative Financial Instruments and Risk Management (Details) (USD $)	Dec. 31, 2014
In Millions, unless otherwise specified
Derivative
Deferred net losses, interest rate risk, to be reclassified from equity to current earnings over the next twelve months	$1

Derivative_Financial_Instrumen3

Derivative Financial Instruments and Risk Management (Details 2) (USD $)	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
In Millions, unless otherwise specified
Derivatives, Fair Value
Asset Fair Value	$101	$138	$238
Liability Fair Value	-23	-10	-15
Designated derivatives
Derivatives, Fair Value
Asset (Liability) Fair Value	71	116	218
Designated derivatives | Interest rate contracts | Other assets
Derivatives, Fair Value
Asset Fair Value	79	122	226
Designated derivatives | Interest rate contracts | Accrued expenses
Derivatives, Fair Value
Liability Fair Value	-8	-6	-8
Undesignated derivatives
Derivatives, Fair Value
Asset (Liability) Fair Value	7	12	5
Undesignated derivatives | Interest rate contracts | Other assets
Derivatives, Fair Value
Asset Fair Value	0	0	2
Undesignated derivatives | Interest rate contracts | Accrued expenses
Derivatives, Fair Value
Liability Fair Value	0	0	-1
Undesignated derivatives | Foreign exchange contracts | Other assets
Derivatives, Fair Value
Asset Fair Value	5	7	10
Undesignated derivatives | Foreign exchange contracts | Accrued expenses
Derivatives, Fair Value
Liability Fair Value	-15	-4	-5
Undesignated derivatives | Cross currency contracts | Other assets
Derivatives, Fair Value
Asset Fair Value	17	9	0
Undesignated derivatives | Cross currency contracts | Accrued expenses
Derivatives, Fair Value
Liability Fair Value	$0	$0	($1)

Derivative_Financial_Instrumen4

Derivative Financial Instruments and Risk Management (Details 3) (USD $)	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
In Billions, unless otherwise specified
Derivative
Derivative instruments, notional amount	$5.25	$6.74	$9.82

Derivative_Financial_Instrumen5

Derivative Financial Instruments and Risk Management (Details 4) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Millions, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
Derivative
Balance at beginning of year, net of tax	($5)	($8)	($6)
Gains (losses) deferred during the year, net of tax	-4	-1	1
(Gains) losses reclassified to earnings, net of tax	4	4	-3
Balance at end of year, net of tax	-5	-5	-8
Beginning balance, tax	3	4	3
Gains (losses) deferred, tax	2	1	0
(Gains) losses reclassified to earnings, tax	2	2	-1
Ending balance, tax	$3	$3	$4

Derivative_Financial_Instrumen6

Derivative Financial Instruments and Risk Management (Details 5) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Millions, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
Designated derivatives | Fair value hedges | Interest rate contracts | Other income (expense)
Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss)
Gains (Losses) on Derivatives	($41)	($107)	($20)
Gains (Losses) on Borrowings	40	109	27
Designated derivatives | Cash flow hedges | Interest rate contracts
Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss)
Amount of Gains (Losses) Reclassified from AOCI to Earnings (Effective Portion)	-6	-6	4
Recognized in Earnings (Ineffective Portion)	0	1	-1
Designated derivatives | Cash flow hedges | Interest rate contracts | Interest expense
Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss)
Amount of Gains (Losses) Reclassified from AOCI to Earnings (Effective Portion)	-6	-6	4
Recognized in Earnings (Ineffective Portion)	0	0	0
Designated derivatives | Cash flow hedges | Interest rate contracts | Other income (expense)
Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss)
Amount of Gains (Losses) Reclassified from AOCI to Earnings (Effective Portion)	0	0	0
Recognized in Earnings (Ineffective Portion)	0	1	-1
Undesignated derivatives
Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss)
Gains (Losses) on Derivatives Not Designated as Hedging Instruments	-47	5	6
Undesignated derivatives | Interest rate contracts | Other income (expense)
Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss)
Gains (Losses) on Derivatives Not Designated as Hedging Instruments	0	-3	0
Undesignated derivatives | Foreign exchange contracts | Other income (expense)
Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss)
Gains (Losses) on Derivatives Not Designated as Hedging Instruments	-49	3	7
Undesignated derivatives | Cross currency contracts | Other income (expense)
Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss)
Gains (Losses) on Derivatives Not Designated as Hedging Instruments	$2	$5	($1)

Derivative_Financial_Instrumen7

Derivative Financial Instruments and Risk Management (Details 6) (USD $)	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
In Millions, unless otherwise specified
Offsetting Assets and Liabilities
Gross Amount of Recognized Assets	$101	$138	$238
Gross Amounts Offset	0	0	0
Net Amount of Assets	101	138	238
Gross Amounts Not Offset	-8	-9	-12
Net Amount	93	129	226
Gross Amount of Recognized Liabilities	-23	-10	-15
Gross Amounts Offset	0	0	0
Net Amount of Liabilities	-23	-10	-15
Gross Amounts Not Offset	8	9	12
Net Amount	($15)	($1)	($3)

Commitments_and_Contingent_Lia1

Commitments and Contingent Liabilities (Details) (USD $)	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
Guarantees [Abstract]
Related liability	$1,000,000	$1,000,000	$2,000,000
Guarantees, maximum potential amount of future payments	42,000,000	55,000,000	61,000,000
SPC's assets in Consolidated Statements of Financial Position	1,090,000,000	1,010,000,000	927,000,000
SPC's liabilities in Consolidated Statements of Financial Position	1,080,000,000	1,010,000,000	927,000,000
Unused commitments and lines of credit for dealers	12,550,000,000	10,630,000,000	10,970,000,000
Unused commitments and lines of credit for customers	$4,000,000,000	$4,640,000,000	$4,690,000,000

Income_Taxes_Details

Income Taxes (Details) (USD $)	3 Months Ended								12 Months Ended
In Millions, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2014	Sep. 30, 2014	Jun. 30, 2014	Mar. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Sep. 30, 2013	Jun. 30, 2013	Mar. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
Components of Profit before income taxes
U.S.									$207	$91	$31
Non-U.S.									546	603	553
Profit before income taxes	166	197	208	182	204	164	141	185	753	694	584
Current income tax provision (benefit)
U.S.									14	-14	14
Non-U.S.									138	183	179
State (U.S.)									-1	0	-2
Current income tax provision (benefit)									151	169	191
Deferred income tax provision (benefit)
U.S.									44	17	-16
Non-U.S.									13	-18	-27
State (U.S.)									1	-1	-3
Deferred income tax provision (benefit)									58	-2	-46
Total Provision for income taxes									$209	$167	$145

Income_Taxes_Details_2

Income Taxes (Details 2) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
	Rate	Rate	Rate
Reconciliation of statutory rate to effective income tax rate
Taxes computed at U.S. statutory rates	$264,000,000	$243,000,000	$204,000,000
U.S. statutory tax rate (as a percent)	35.00%	35.00%	35.00%
(Decreases) increases in taxes resulting from:
State Income Tax, net of Federal Tax	0	-1,000,000	-3,000,000
State Income Tax, net of Federal Tax (as a percent)	0.00%	-0.10%	-0.50%
Subsidiaries' results subject to tax rates other than U.S. statutory rates	-53,000,000	-68,000,000	-50,000,000
Subsidiaries' results subject to tax rates other than U.S. statutory rates (as a percent)	-7.00%	-9.80%	-8.60%
Other, net	-2,000,000	-7,000,000	-6,000,000
Other, net (as a percent)	-0.20%	-1.00%	-1.00%
Provision for income taxes	209,000,000	167,000,000	145,000,000
Provision for income taxes, Effective Income Tax Rate (as a percent)	27.80%	24.10%	24.90%
Undistributed profits of non-U.S. subsidiaries, which are considered indefinitely reinvested	$2,000,000,000

Income_Taxes_Details_3

Income Taxes (Details 3) (USD $)	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
In Millions, unless otherwise specified
Deferred tax assets
Deferred and refundable income taxes	$94	$103	$104
Deferred tax liabilities
Deferred income taxes and other liabilities	-668	-500	-535
Deferred income taxes, net	($574)	($397)	($431)

Income_Taxes_Details_4

Income Taxes (Details 4) (USD $)	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
In Millions, unless otherwise specified
Deferred tax assets:
Allowance for credit losses	$149	$144	$159
Net operating loss carryforwards	46	56	59
Deferred tax assets, gross	195	200	218
Deferred tax liabilities
Deferred income tax liabilities (primarily lease basis differences)	-514	-455	-467
Valuation allowance for deferred income tax assets	-3	-9	-9
Deferred income tax on translation adjustment	-252	-133	-173
Deferred income taxes, net	($574)	($397)	($431)

Income_Taxes_Details_5

Income Taxes (Details 5) (USD $)	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
In Millions, unless otherwise specified
Net operating loss (NOL) carryforwards
Gross deferred income tax asset associated with NOL carryforwards	$46	$56	$59
U.S. state taxing jurisdictions
Net operating loss (NOL) carryforwards
NOL carryforwards	136
Gross deferred income tax asset associated with NOL carryforwards	11
U.S. state taxing jurisdictions | Expiration Date 2015
Net operating loss (NOL) carryforwards
NOL carryforwards	0
U.S. state taxing jurisdictions | Expiration Date 2016
Net operating loss (NOL) carryforwards
NOL carryforwards	0
U.S. state taxing jurisdictions | Expiration Date 2017
Net operating loss (NOL) carryforwards
NOL carryforwards	0
U.S. state taxing jurisdictions | Expiration Date 2018
Net operating loss (NOL) carryforwards
NOL carryforwards	6
U.S. state taxing jurisdictions | Expiration Date 2019-2030
Net operating loss (NOL) carryforwards
NOL carryforwards	130
Non-U.S. taxing jurisdictions
Net operating loss (NOL) carryforwards
NOL carryforwards	157
NOL carryforwards, Valuation allowance	2
Non-U.S. taxing jurisdictions | Expiration Date 2015
Net operating loss (NOL) carryforwards
NOL carryforwards	3
Non-U.S. taxing jurisdictions | Expiration Date 2016
Net operating loss (NOL) carryforwards
NOL carryforwards	1
Non-U.S. taxing jurisdictions | Expiration Date 2017
Net operating loss (NOL) carryforwards
NOL carryforwards	0
Non-U.S. taxing jurisdictions | Expiration Date 2018
Net operating loss (NOL) carryforwards
NOL carryforwards	0
Non-U.S. taxing jurisdictions | Expiration Date 2019-2030
Net operating loss (NOL) carryforwards
NOL carryforwards	14
Non-U.S. taxing jurisdictions | Unlimited
Net operating loss (NOL) carryforwards
NOL carryforwards	139
Maximum | U.S. state taxing jurisdictions
Net operating loss (NOL) carryforwards
NOL carryforwards, Valuation allowance	$1

Income_Taxes_Details_6

Income Taxes (Details 6) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Millions, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
Reconciliation of unrecognized income tax benefits
Unrecognized tax benefits, beginning of year	$0	$2	$0
Additions for income tax positions related to prior year	0	0	2
Reductions for income tax positions related to settlements	0	-2	0
Unrecognized tax benefits, end of year	0	0	2
Unrecognized tax benefits that, if recognized, would impact the effective tax rate	0	0	2
Recognized interest and penalties			-5
Maximum
Reconciliation of unrecognized income tax benefits
Recognized interest and penalties	-1	-1
Accrued interest and penalties	$1	$1	$1

Fair_Value_Measurements_Detail

Fair Value Measurements (Details) (USD $)	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
In Millions, unless otherwise specified
Level 3
Liabilities
Guarantees	$1	$1	$2
Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring
Assets
Derivative financial instruments, net	78	128	223
Total Assets	78	128	223
Liabilities
Guarantees	1	1	2
Total liabilities	1	1	2
Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring | Level 1
Assets
Derivative financial instruments, net	0	0	0
Total Assets	0	0	0
Liabilities
Guarantees	0	0	0
Total liabilities	0	0	0
Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring | Level 2
Assets
Derivative financial instruments, net	78	128	223
Total Assets	78	128	223
Liabilities
Guarantees	0	0	0
Total liabilities	0	0	0
Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring | Level 3
Assets
Derivative financial instruments, net	0	0	0
Total Assets	0	0	0
Liabilities
Guarantees	1	1	2
Total liabilities	$1	$1	$2

Fair_Value_Measurements_Detail1

Fair Value Measurements (Details 2) (Level 3, USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Millions, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
Level 3
Fair Value, Liabilities Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation, Calculation [Roll Forward]
Balance at beginning of year	$1	$2	$2
Issuance of guarantees	1	2	2
Expiration of guarantees	-1	-3	-2
Balance at end of year	$1	$1	$2

Fair_Value_Measurements_Detail2

Fair Value Measurements (Details 3) (Level 2, USD $)	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
In Millions, unless otherwise specified
Level 2
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis
Fair value of impaired loans	$248	$88	$122

Fair_Value_Measurements_Detail3

Fair Value Measurements (Details 4) (USD $)	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
Financial Instruments, Financial Liabilities, Balance Sheet Groupings
Short-term borrowings	($4,699,000,000)	($3,663,000,000)	($4,651,000,000)
Fair Value, Level 1
Financial Instruments, Financial Assets, Balance Sheet Groupings
Cash and cash equivalents	857,000,000	1,320,000,000	2,080,000,000
Restricted cash and cash equivalents	11,000,000	17,000,000	19,000,000
Financial Instruments, Financial Liabilities, Balance Sheet Groupings
Short-term borrowings	-4,699,000,000	-3,663,000,000	-4,651,000,000
Fair Value, Level 2
Financial Instruments, Financial Assets, Balance Sheet Groupings
Foreign currency contracts, in a receivable position	5,000,000	7,000,000	10,000,000
Interest rate swaps, in a net receivable position	79,000,000	122,000,000	228,000,000
Financial Instruments, Financial Liabilities, Balance Sheet Groupings
Foreign currency contracts, in a payable position	-15,000,000	-4,000,000	-5,000,000
Long-term debt	-25,103,000,000	-25,849,000,000	-26,063,000,000
Interest rate swaps, in a net payable position	-8,000,000	-6,000,000	-9,000,000
Fair Value, Level 3
Financial Instruments, Financial Assets, Balance Sheet Groupings
Finance receivables, net (excluding finance leases)	21,093,000,000	20,459,000,000	19,956,000,000
Financial Instruments, Financial Liabilities, Balance Sheet Groupings
Guarantees	-1,000,000	-1,000,000	-2,000,000
Carrying Amount
Financial Instruments, Financial Assets, Balance Sheet Groupings
Cash and cash equivalents	857,000,000	1,320,000,000	2,080,000,000
Foreign currency contracts, in a receivable position	5,000,000	7,000,000	10,000,000
Finance receivables, net (excluding finance leases)	21,434,000,000	20,657,000,000	20,065,000,000
Restricted cash and cash equivalents	11,000,000	17,000,000	19,000,000
Interest rate swaps, in a net receivable position	79,000,000	122,000,000	228,000,000
Financial Instruments, Financial Liabilities, Balance Sheet Groupings
Foreign currency contracts, in a payable position	-15,000,000	-4,000,000	-5,000,000
Short-term borrowings	-4,699,000,000	-3,663,000,000	-4,651,000,000
Long-term debt	-24,574,000,000	-25,329,000,000	-25,089,000,000
Interest rate swaps, in a net payable position	-8,000,000	-6,000,000	-9,000,000
Guarantees	-1,000,000	-1,000,000	-2,000,000
Carrying amount of assets excluded from measurement at fair value
Financial Instruments, Financial Assets, Balance Sheet Groupings
Finance leases	7,640,000,000	8,020,000,000	8,070,000,000
Cross currency contracts | Fair Value, Level 2
Financial Instruments, Financial Assets, Balance Sheet Groupings
Foreign currency contracts, in a receivable position	17,000,000	9,000,000	0
Financial Instruments, Financial Liabilities, Balance Sheet Groupings
Foreign currency contracts, in a payable position	0	0	-1,000,000
Cross currency contracts | Carrying Amount
Financial Instruments, Financial Assets, Balance Sheet Groupings
Foreign currency contracts, in a receivable position	17,000,000	9,000,000	0
Financial Instruments, Financial Liabilities, Balance Sheet Groupings
Foreign currency contracts, in a payable position	$0	$0	($1,000,000)

Transactions_with_Related_Part2

Transactions with Related Parties (Details) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
Related Party Transaction
Dividend paid to Caterpillar	$400,000,000	$200,000,000	$250,000,000
Maximum borrowing capacity from Caterpillar, Variable lending agreements	2,310,000,000
Maximum lending capacity to Caterpillar, Variable lending agreements	1,290,000,000
Amount available, Committed credit facility extended to Caterpillar	2,000,000,000
Notes payable to Caterpillar	1,108,000,000	1,118,000,000	208,000,000
Notes receivable from Caterpillar	414,000,000	345,000,000	360,000,000
Discounts earned on purchased receivables	243,000,000	233,000,000	241,000,000
Caterpillar
Related Party Transaction
Dividend paid to Caterpillar	400,000,000	200,000,000	250,000,000
Maximum borrowing capacity from Caterpillar, Variable lending agreements	2,310,000,000
Maximum lending capacity to Caterpillar, Variable lending agreements	1,290,000,000
Amount available, Committed credit facility extended to Caterpillar	2,000,000,000
Interest expense, Caterpillar	7,000,000	7,000,000	4,000,000
Interest income on Notes Receivable with Caterpillar	18,000,000	19,000,000	21,000,000
Fees on committed credit facility extended to Caterpillar	41,000,000	41,000,000	41,000,000
Purchases of receivables from Caterpillar	36,816,000,000	33,018,000,000	36,665,000,000
Discounts earned on purchased receivables	243,000,000	233,000,000	241,000,000
Balance of purchased receivables	3,238,000,000	3,092,000,000	3,114,000,000
Marketing program payments received	173,000,000	189,000,000	160,000,000
Charges for employee medical plans and postretirement benefit plans administered by Caterpillar	30,000,000	27,000,000	26,000,000
Contributions to defined benefit plans	7,000,000	7,000,000	7,000,000
Stock based compensation expense	11,000,000	11,000,000	10,000,000
Operational and administrative support charges reimbursed to Caterpillar	37,000,000	33,000,000	32,000,000
Administrative support services to certain Caterpillar subsidiaries reimbursed by Caterpillar	$12,000,000	$12,000,000	$10,000,000

Leases_Details

Leases (Details) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Millions, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
Leases [Abstract]
Rental expense for operating leases	$17	$17	$16
Minimum payments for operating leases having initial or remaining non-cancelable terms
2015	16
2016	13
2017	12
2018	11
2019	10
Thereafter	21
Total	$83

Segment_Information_Details

Segment Information (Details) (USD $)	3 Months Ended								12 Months Ended
In Millions, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2014	Sep. 30, 2014	Jun. 30, 2014	Mar. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Sep. 30, 2013	Jun. 30, 2013	Mar. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
Segment Reporting Information
Revenues	$703	$743	$728	$711	$711	$699	$695	$680	$2,885	$2,785	$2,693
Segment Profit	166	197	208	182	204	164	141	185	753	694	584
Interest Expense									631	734	801
Depreciation on equipment leased to others									870	770	688
Provision for credit losses									139	101	163
Segment Assets	35,176				35,114				35,176	35,114	34,735
Capital expenditures									1,627	1,822	1,660
Operating Segments
Segment Reporting Information
Revenues									2,843	2,738	2,644
Segment Profit									806	759	651
Interest Expense									639	720	790
Depreciation on equipment leased to others									869	769	687
Provision for credit losses									139	103	159
Segment Assets	33,866				33,867				33,866	33,867	33,419
Capital expenditures									1,624	1,819	1,658
Unallocated
Segment Reporting Information
Revenues									70	73	73
Segment Profit									-82	-73	-93
Interest Expense									48	53	61
Depreciation on equipment leased to others									1	1	1
Provision for credit losses									2	2	1
Segment Assets	1,648				1,595				1,648	1,595	1,529
Capital expenditures									1	1	0
Timing
Segment Reporting Information
Revenues									-28	-26	-24
Segment Profit									-8	-10	-6
Interest Expense									0	0	0
Depreciation on equipment leased to others									0	0	0
Provision for credit losses									-2	-4	3
Segment Assets	120				68				120	68	17
Capital expenditures									2	2	2
Methodology
Segment Reporting Information
Revenues									0	0	0
Segment Profit									37	18	32
Interest Expense									-56	-39	-50
Depreciation on equipment leased to others									0	0	0
Provision for credit losses									0	0	0
Segment Assets	-215				-189				-215	-189	-61
Capital expenditures									0	0	0
Intersegment Eliminations
Segment Reporting Information
Revenues									0	0	0
Segment Profit									0	0	0
Interest Expense									0	0	0
Depreciation on equipment leased to others									0	0	0
Provision for credit losses									0	0	0
Segment Assets	-243				-227				-243	-227	-169
Capital expenditures									0	0	0
North America | Operating Segments
Segment Reporting Information
Revenues									1,067	946	938
Segment Profit									355	283	264
Interest Expense									240	259	270
Depreciation on equipment leased to others									361	293	274
Provision for credit losses									3	0	15
Segment Assets	13,661				12,160				13,661	12,160	11,309
Capital expenditures									1,077	782	565
Europe and CPF | Operating Segments
Segment Reporting Information
Revenues									498	505	467
Segment Profit									134	146	84
Interest Expense									88	110	134
Depreciation on equipment leased to others									98	86	76
Provision for credit losses									50	47	65
Segment Assets	7,601				8,068				7,601	8,068	7,785
Capital expenditures									133	242	243
Asia/Pacific | Operating Segments
Segment Reporting Information
Revenues									368	399	399
Segment Profit									129	156	134
Interest Expense									116	135	155
Depreciation on equipment leased to others									24	25	23
Provision for credit losses									35	9	24
Segment Assets	4,767				5,251				4,767	5,251	6,144
Capital expenditures									34	54	133
Latin America | Operating Segments
Segment Reporting Information
Revenues									449	414	389
Segment Profit									124	89	109
Interest Expense									130	137	141
Depreciation on equipment leased to others									114	93	64
Provision for credit losses									22	35	28
Segment Assets	4,676				4,947				4,676	4,947	4,969
Capital expenditures									111	272	172
Mining | Operating Segments
Segment Reporting Information
Revenues									461	474	451
Segment Profit									64	85	60
Interest Expense									65	79	90
Depreciation on equipment leased to others									272	272	250
Provision for credit losses									29	12	27
Segment Assets	3,161				3,441				3,161	3,441	3,212
Capital expenditures									$269	$469	$545

Segment_Information_Details_2

Segment Information (Details 2) (USD $)	3 Months Ended								12 Months Ended
In Millions, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2014	Sep. 30, 2014	Jun. 30, 2014	Mar. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Sep. 30, 2013	Jun. 30, 2013	Mar. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
Revenues from External Customers and Long-Lived Assets
Revenues	$703	$743	$728	$711	$711	$699	$695	$680	$2,885	$2,785	$2,693
Equipment on Operating Leases and Non-Leased Equipment (included in Other Assets), net	3,706				3,637				3,706	3,637	3,074
Inside U.S.
Revenues from External Customers and Long-Lived Assets
Revenues									1,219	1,045	1,009
Equipment on Operating Leases and Non-Leased Equipment (included in Other Assets), net	1,696				1,437				1,696	1,437	1,204
Inside Canada
Revenues from External Customers and Long-Lived Assets
Revenues									259	329	330
Equipment on Operating Leases and Non-Leased Equipment (included in Other Assets), net	756				729				756	729	741
Inside Australia
Revenues from External Customers and Long-Lived Assets
Revenues									261	287	302
Equipment on Operating Leases and Non-Leased Equipment (included in Other Assets), net	358				434				358	434	341
All other
Revenues from External Customers and Long-Lived Assets
Revenues									1,146	1,124	1,052
Equipment on Operating Leases and Non-Leased Equipment (included in Other Assets), net	$896				$1,037				$896	$1,037	$788

Selected_Quarterly_Financial_D2

Selected Quarterly Financial Data (Unaudited) (Details) (USD $)	3 Months Ended								12 Months Ended
In Millions, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2014	Sep. 30, 2014	Jun. 30, 2014	Mar. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Sep. 30, 2013	Jun. 30, 2013	Mar. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2014		Dec. 31, 2013		Dec. 31, 2012
Quarterly Financial Information Disclosure [Abstract]
Total revenues	$703	$743	$728	$711	$711	$699	$695	$680	$2,885		$2,785		$2,693
Profit before income taxes	166	197	208	182	204	164	141	185	753		694		584
Profit	$108	$148	$148	$131	$158	$117	$98	$140	$535	[1]	$513	[1]	$428	[1]
[1]	Profit attributable to Caterpillar Financial Services Corporation.