How To Fix AR017 - In &, position & must contain character '&'

SAP Error Message - Details

• Message type: E = Error

• Message class: AR - SSRV function module messages

• Message number: 017

• Message text: In &, position & must contain character '&'

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 AR017 - In &, position & must contain character '&' ?

  The SAP error message AR017 typically indicates that there is an issue with the format or content of a field in a document or transaction. The message suggests that in a specific position (indicated by the placeholders), a character is expected but is either missing or incorrect.
  Cause:
  
  Incorrect Data Entry: The most common cause is that the user has entered data incorrectly in a field that requires a specific character or format.
  Configuration Issues: There may be configuration settings in the SAP system that are not aligned with the expected data format.
  Data Migration Issues: If data has been migrated from another system, it may not conform to the expected format in SAP.
  Custom Development: If there are custom programs or enhancements, they may not be handling the data correctly.
  
  Solution:
  
  Check Input Data: Review the data entered in the specified position and ensure it meets the required format. Look for missing characters or incorrect entries.
  Review Field Requirements: Consult the documentation or field definitions to understand what characters or formats are expected in that position.
  Configuration Review: If the issue persists, check the configuration settings related to the document or transaction type to ensure they are set up correctly.
  Debugging: If you have access to debugging tools, you can trace the program execution to identify where the error is being triggered.
  Consult SAP Notes: Check the SAP Support Portal for any relevant notes or patches that may address this specific error message.
  Contact Support: If you are unable to resolve the issue, consider reaching out to your SAP support team or SAP directly for assistance.
  
  Related Information:
  
  Transaction Codes: Depending on where the error occurs, you may be using specific transaction codes (e.g., FB01 for document posting, VA01 for sales order creation, etc.).
  Field Documentation: Review the field documentation in the SAP system to understand the expected input.
  User Exits and BAdIs: If there are custom developments, check for any user exits or BAdIs that might be affecting the data processing.
  
  By following these steps, you should be able to identify and resolve the issue causing the AR017 error message in SAP.