How To Fix CL646 - & is a reference characteristic; use class maintenance

SAP Error Message - Details

• Message type: E = Error

• Message class: CL - Classification

• Message number: 646

• Message text: & is a reference characteristic; use class maintenance

What causes this issue?

You cannot use the <LS>Edit -> Special functions -> Del. char. with
vals</> function to delete <DS:GLOS.reference_characteristic>reference
characteristics</>. You can only delete user-defined characteristics
with this function.

How to fix this error?

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 class maintenance function to delete reference characteristics
from a class.

Error message extract from SAP system. Copyright SAP SE.

Smart SAP Assistant

• What is the cause and solution for SAP error message CL646 - & is a reference characteristic; use class maintenance ?

  The SAP error message CL646 typically indicates an issue related to characteristics in the classification system. Specifically, it suggests that a reference characteristic is being used incorrectly or is not properly maintained in the class.
  Cause of Error CL646:
  
  Reference Characteristic Not Defined: The reference characteristic that you are trying to use may not be defined in the class or may not exist in the system.
  Incorrect Class Type: The class type you are using may not support reference characteristics.
  Missing Authorization: You may not have the necessary authorizations to access or modify the characteristics or classes.
  Inconsistent Data: There may be inconsistencies in the data related to the characteristics or classes.
  
  Solution:
  
  
  Check Class Maintenance:
  
  Go to the Class Maintenance transaction (Transaction Code: CL02).
  Verify that the reference characteristic is correctly defined in the class.
  Ensure that the characteristic is active and properly configured.
  
  
  
  Define Reference Characteristic:
  
  If the reference characteristic is missing, you may need to create it. Use Transaction Code: CL01 to create a new characteristic.
  Ensure that the characteristic is set as a reference characteristic if that is the intended use.
  
  
  
  Review Class Type:
  
  Ensure that the class type you are using supports reference characteristics. You can check this in the class type configuration.
  
  
  
  Check Authorizations:
  
  Ensure that you have the necessary authorizations to access and modify the characteristics and classes. Consult with your SAP security team if needed.
  
  
  
  Data Consistency Check:
  
  Perform a data consistency check to ensure that there are no inconsistencies in the classification data.
  
  
  
  Related Information:
  
  Transaction Codes:
  
  CL01: Create Characteristic
  CL02: Change Class
  CL03: Display Class
  CL04: Change Characteristic
  
  
  Documentation: Refer to SAP Help documentation for detailed information on characteristics and classes in the classification system.
  SAP Notes: Check for any relevant SAP Notes that may address specific issues related to error CL646.
  
  If the problem persists after following these steps, it may be beneficial to consult with your SAP support team or refer to SAP community forums for additional assistance.