How To Fix AQ273 - The reference field does not exist

SAP Error Message - Details

• Message type: E = Error

• Message class: AQ - Message texts for SAP Query

• Message number: 273

• Message text: The reference field does not exist

What causes this issue?

You attempted to define the technical attributes of your field by
referencing another field, but the reference field does not exist.

System Response

The system issues an error message and will not allow you to continue with this transaction until the error is resolved.

How to fix this error?

Error message extract from SAP system. Copyright SAP SE.

Smart SAP Assistant

• What is the cause and solution for SAP error message AQ273 - The reference field does not exist ?

  The SAP error message AQ273, "The reference field does not exist," typically occurs in the context of SAP applications when there is an issue with a field that is expected to be present in a data structure or database table but is not found. This can happen in various scenarios, such as during data entry, report generation, or when executing certain transactions.
  Causes:
  
  Field Deletion or Renaming: The field that the system is trying to access may have been deleted or renamed in the underlying database or data structure.
  Incorrect Configuration: There may be a configuration issue in the application where the reference field is not properly defined or linked.
  Transport Issues: If changes were transported from one system to another (e.g., from development to production), the transport may not have included the necessary field definitions.
  Custom Development: If there are custom developments (like Z-programs or enhancements), they may reference fields that do not exist in the current context.
  Version Mismatch: The error may arise if there is a version mismatch between different components of the SAP system.
  
  Solutions:
  
  Check Field Existence: Verify if the field in question exists in the relevant database table or structure. You can do this using transaction codes like SE11 (Data Dictionary) or SE16 (Data Browser).
  Review Configuration: Check the configuration settings related to the application or module you are working with to ensure that all necessary fields are defined correctly.
  Transport Logs: If the issue arose after a transport, review the transport logs to ensure that all necessary objects were included and correctly transported.
  Custom Code Review: If custom code is involved, review the code to ensure that it references the correct fields and that those fields exist in the current environment.
  Consult Documentation: Check SAP notes or documentation related to the specific module or transaction to see if there are known issues or updates that address this error.
  System Refresh: If the issue is due to a system refresh or upgrade, ensure that all necessary data and configurations have been migrated correctly.
  
  Related Information:
  
  SAP Notes: Search for relevant SAP Notes in the SAP Support Portal that may address this specific error or provide guidance on similar issues.
  Community Forums: Check SAP Community forums or other user groups for discussions related to AQ273, as other users may have encountered and resolved similar issues.
  Transaction Codes: Familiarize yourself with transaction codes like SE11, SE16, and SE80 for data dictionary and object management, which can help in troubleshooting.
  
  If the problem persists after trying the above solutions, it may be necessary to involve your SAP Basis or development team for further investigation.