How To Fix C1002 - Characteristic & already exists

SAP Error Message - Details

• Message type: E = Error

• Message class: C1 - Characteristics maintenance messages

• Message number: 002

• Message text: Characteristic & already exists

What causes this issue?

You want to create a new characteristic, but a characteristic with this
name already exists.

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?

Use a different characteristic name.

Error message extract from SAP system. Copyright SAP SE.

Smart SAP Assistant

• What is the cause and solution for SAP error message C1002 - Characteristic & already exists ?

  The SAP error message C1002, which states "Characteristic & already exists," typically occurs in the context of SAP's classification system, particularly when you are trying to create or modify a characteristic that already exists in the system. This can happen in various modules, including SAP Variant Configuration (VC) and SAP Product Lifecycle Management (PLM).
  Cause:
  
  Duplicate Characteristic: The most common cause of this error is that you are attempting to create a characteristic with a name that is already in use in the system.
  Incorrect Data Entry: There may be a typographical error or misunderstanding regarding the naming conventions of characteristics.
  Namespace Issues: If you are working in a system with multiple namespaces, you might be trying to create a characteristic in a namespace that is already occupied.
  
  Solution:
  
  
  Check Existing Characteristics: Before creating a new characteristic, check the existing characteristics in the system to ensure that the name you want to use is not already taken. You can do this by navigating to the relevant transaction (e.g., CL02 for changing characteristics) and searching for the characteristic name.
  
  
  Use a Different Name: If the characteristic already exists, consider using a different name that adheres to your organization’s naming conventions.
  
  
  Modify Existing Characteristic: If the characteristic you are trying to create is similar to an existing one, consider modifying the existing characteristic instead of creating a new one.
  
  
  Check for Deletion: If you believe the characteristic should not exist, check if it has been marked for deletion. In some cases, characteristics can be flagged as deleted but still exist in the system.
  
  
  Consult Documentation: Review any relevant documentation or guidelines provided by your organization regarding the creation of characteristics to ensure compliance with naming conventions and other standards.
  
  
  Related Information:
  
  Transaction Codes: Familiarize yourself with relevant transaction codes such as CL01 (Create Characteristic), CL02 (Change Characteristic), and CL03 (Display Characteristic).
  Authorization: Ensure you have the necessary authorizations to create or modify characteristics in the SAP system.
  SAP Notes: Check SAP Notes for any known issues or additional guidance related to this error message.
  Support: If you are unable to resolve the issue, consider reaching out to your SAP support team or consulting with an SAP expert for further assistance.
  
  By following these steps, you should be able to resolve the C1002 error and successfully manage characteristics in your SAP system.