How To Fix 5W156 - The existing target object could not be deleted.

SAP Error Message - Details

• Message type: E = Error

• Message class: 5W - Messages for PD (Particularly Workflow)

• Message number: 156

• Message text: The existing target object could not be deleted.

Self-Explanatory Message

Since SAP believes that this specific error message is 'self-explanatory,' no more information has been given.The majority of messages in the SAP system have a message text, however this is frequently insufficient to comprehend or resolve the problem.

To make things easier, more detailed information is frequently added to describe the issue, how to fix it, and the necessary steps or configuration modifications.

Unfortunately, there isn't any extra information in this error notice.

What else can you do?

First, use our AnswerBot below to get a possible cause and solution (requires a premium subscription).

Also, review the in-depth Common Questions & Answers listed below; you could discover a solution there or be able to connect with others who have faced similar challenges.

You can also try searching the SAP support portal (support.sap.com) but you need a special user ID to access it. It is possible that an SAP support note exists that provides additional details about the mistake or even steps for fixing it.

Smart SAP Assistant

• What is the cause and solution for SAP error message 5W156 - The existing target object could not be deleted. ?

  The SAP error message 5W156, "The existing target object could not be deleted," typically occurs in the context of SAP's transport management system or when dealing with object management in various modules. This error indicates that there is an issue preventing the deletion of a target object, which could be a transport request, a development object, or a configuration setting.
  Causes:
  
  Dependencies: The object you are trying to delete may have dependencies or references in other objects, making it impossible to delete.
  Authorization Issues: The user may not have the necessary authorizations to delete the object.
  Object Status: The object might be in a status that does not allow deletion (e.g., it is locked or in use).
  Transport Request Issues: If the object is part of a transport request that is already released or in a different state, it may not be deletable.
  System Configuration: There may be system settings or configurations that prevent the deletion of certain objects.
  
  Solutions:
  
  Check Dependencies: Review the object for any dependencies or references. Ensure that all dependent objects are handled appropriately before attempting to delete.
  Review Authorizations: Ensure that the user has the necessary authorizations to delete the object. You may need to consult with your SAP security team.
  Change Object Status: If the object is locked or in a non-deletable status, you may need to unlock it or change its status before deletion.
  Transport Request Management: If the object is part of a transport request, check the status of the transport request. If it is released, you may need to create a new transport request for the changes.
  Consult Documentation: Refer to SAP documentation or notes related to the specific object type you are dealing with for any additional guidelines or restrictions.
  
  Related Information:
  
  Transaction Codes: Depending on the context, you may be using transaction codes like SE09 (Transport Organizer), SE10 (Transport Organizer), or SE80 (Object Navigator).
  SAP Notes: Check SAP Notes for any known issues or patches related to this error message.
  Logs and Traces: Review system logs or traces for more detailed error messages that may provide additional context for the failure.
  
  If the issue persists after trying the above solutions, it may be beneficial to consult with your SAP Basis team or open a support ticket with SAP for further assistance.