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Organization and Basis of Presentation (Details2) (USD $)
In Millions, unless otherwise specified
 0 Months Ended 3 Months Ended 9 Months Ended
Oct. 02, 2012
Sep. 30, 2012
Sep. 30, 2011
Sep. 30, 2012
segment
Sep. 30, 2011
Organization and Basis of Presentation          
Operating segments number       3  
Unit split conversion ratio 2        
Partner Income Allocation          
General partner ownership interest (as a percent)       2.00%  
Net Income Attributable to Plains   $ 165 $ 281 $ 774 $ 688
Limited Partner
          
Partner Income Allocation          
Limited partner ownership interest (as a percent)       98.00%  
Net Income Attributable to Plains     221   520
General Partner
          
Partner Income Allocation          
General partner ownership interest (as a percent)       2.00%  
Net Income Attributable to Plains     60   168
Total Net Income Attributable to Plains
          
Partner Income Allocation          
Net Income Attributable to Plains     281   688
Amounts Previously Reported | Limited Partner
          
Partner Income Allocation          
Net Income Attributable to Plains     224   528
Amounts Previously Reported | General Partner
          
Partner Income Allocation          
Net Income Attributable to Plains     $ 57   $ 160