How To Fix C1186 - Allowed values will be lost if you change the checking method

SAP Error Message - Details

• Message type: E = Error

• Message class: C1 - Characteristics maintenance messages

• Message number: 186

• Message text: Allowed values will be lost if you change the checking method

What causes this issue?

You want to change the method of checking values. This deletes all the
value you have entered as allowed so far.

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?

If you do not want to lose these values, keep to checking method
"Allowed values".

Procedure for System Administrators

Error message extract from SAP system. Copyright SAP SE.

Smart SAP Assistant

• What is the cause and solution for SAP error message C1186 - Allowed values will be lost if you change the checking method ?

  The SAP error message C1186, which states "Allowed values will be lost if you change the checking method," typically occurs in the context of defining or modifying a field's validation rules in the SAP system, particularly when working with data elements or domains.
  Cause:
  This error message is triggered when you attempt to change the checking method of a field (for example, from "Check table" to "Fixed values" or vice versa) in a way that would invalidate or remove the existing allowed values associated with that field. The checking method determines how the system validates the input for that field, and changing it can lead to the loss of previously defined allowed values.
  Solution:
  To resolve this error, you can take the following steps:
  
  
  Review Current Settings: Check the current checking method and the allowed values associated with the field. Understand how the existing values are being validated.
  
  
  Decide on the New Checking Method: Determine if the new checking method is necessary and beneficial for your requirements. If it is, proceed with caution.
  
  
  Backup Allowed Values: Before making any changes, document or back up the current allowed values. This way, you can restore them if needed.
  
  
  Change the Checking Method: If you still want to proceed with changing the checking method, you can do so, but be aware that you will need to redefine the allowed values afterward.
  
  
  Redefine Allowed Values: After changing the checking method, redefine the allowed values according to the new validation rules you have set.
  
  
  Test the Changes: After making the changes, test the field to ensure that it behaves as expected and that the new allowed values are functioning correctly.
  
  
  Related Information:
  
  Data Elements and Domains: Understanding how data elements and domains work in SAP can help you manage allowed values and validation methods effectively.
  SAP Documentation: Refer to SAP Help documentation for detailed information on data element properties and validation methods.
  Transport Requests: If you are working in a development environment, ensure that your changes are captured in a transport request for proper migration to other environments (e.g., QA, Production).
  Consult with Colleagues: If you are unsure about the implications of changing the checking method, consult with colleagues or SAP experts who may have experience with similar changes.
  
  By following these steps, you should be able to address the C1186 error message effectively while ensuring that your data integrity is maintained.