How To Fix CL157 - You cannot delete & due to inconsistency

SAP Error Message - Details

• Message type: E = Error

• Message class: CL - Classification

• Message number: 157

• Message text: You cannot delete & due to inconsistency

What causes this issue?

You cannot delete characteristic &V1&, because this would lead to
inconsistencies in the values assigned to classified objects.
Subordinate classes in a <DS:GLOS.class_hierarchy>class hierarchy</>,
which did not have the characteristic, have
<DS:GLOS.characteristic_inheritance>inherited</> the characteristic.
Once a value has been assigned to the characteristic in objects
classified in the subordinate classes, the characteristic can no longer
be deleted from the class. Otherwise inconsistencies would occur in the
class hierarchy.

System Response

The system checks for subordinate classes that do not have the
characteristic, but that have been used to classify objects, such that
a value was assigned to characteristic &V1&.

How to fix this error?

If the characteristic has been used in this way, you can only delete
the characteristic after all the characteristic values assigned in the
classified objects have been deleted.

Error message extract from SAP system. Copyright SAP SE.

Smart SAP Assistant

• What is the cause and solution for SAP error message CL157 - You cannot delete & due to inconsistency ?

  The SAP error message CL157, which states "You cannot delete & due to inconsistency," typically occurs in the context of the Classification System in SAP. This error indicates that there is an inconsistency in the classification data that prevents the deletion of a class or characteristic.
  Cause:
  
  Inconsistent Data: The class or characteristic you are trying to delete is still being referenced by other objects (e.g., materials, documents, or other classes).
  Dependencies: There may be dependencies or links to other classifications that need to be resolved before deletion can occur.
  Incomplete Deletion Process: If a previous deletion attempt was interrupted or not completed properly, it could leave the system in an inconsistent state.
  
  Solution:
  
  Check References: Before attempting to delete the class or characteristic, check for any existing references. You can use transaction codes like CL03 (Display Class) or CL02 (Change Class) to see where the class is being used.
  Remove Dependencies: If the class is being used in other objects, you will need to remove those dependencies first. This may involve:
  
  Unassigning the class from materials or other objects.
  Deleting or modifying any characteristics that are linked to the class.
  
  
  Use Transaction CL06: If you are sure that the class is no longer needed, you can use transaction CL06 (Delete Class) to attempt deletion after resolving any inconsistencies.
  Check for Inactive Objects: Sometimes, inactive objects can cause inconsistencies. Ensure that all related objects are active or properly managed.
  Consult Logs: Check the system logs for any additional error messages or warnings that might provide more context on the inconsistency.
  SAP Notes: Look for relevant SAP Notes that might address specific issues related to this error message. SAP Notes can provide patches or additional guidance.
  
  Related Information:
  
  Transaction Codes: Familiarize yourself with relevant transaction codes such as CL01 (Create Class), CL02 (Change Class), CL03 (Display Class), and CL06 (Delete Class).
  Documentation: Review SAP documentation on the Classification System for a better understanding of how classes and characteristics work.
  Support: If the issue persists, consider reaching out to your SAP support team or consulting SAP Community forums for assistance.
  
  By following these steps, you should be able to identify the cause of the inconsistency and take the necessary actions to resolve it, allowing you to delete the class or characteristic as needed.