How To Fix CX231 - Characteristic &1 in function &2 cannot be deleted

SAP Error Message - Details

• Message type: E = Error

• Message class: CX - Nachrichten für Konfigurationsprozess

• Message number: 231

• Message text: Characteristic &1 in function &2 cannot be deleted

What causes this issue?

Characteristic &V1& in table &V2& is used in dependencies during the
period &V3& - &V4&. Therefore, you cannot delete this characteristic.

System Response

The system checks whether the characteristic is in use and, if
necessary, prevents you from deleting characteristics.

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.

Do you want to see where the characteristic is used?
<DS:REPO.RCCUVWTB>Yes</>
ENDIF

Error message extract from SAP system. Copyright SAP SE.

Smart SAP Assistant

• What is the cause and solution for SAP error message CX231 - Characteristic &1 in function &2 cannot be deleted ?

  The SAP error message CX231 indicates that a characteristic (denoted as &1) in a specific function (denoted as &2) cannot be deleted. This error typically arises in the context of SAP's classification system, where characteristics are used to define the properties of objects.
  Cause:
  
  
  Usage in Existing Objects: The characteristic you are trying to delete is still being used in one or more existing objects (e.g., material master records, classification systems, etc.). If a characteristic is actively linked to objects, it cannot be deleted.
  
  
  Dependencies: There may be dependencies or relationships with other characteristics or objects that prevent deletion.
  
  
  Authorization Issues: The user may not have the necessary authorizations to delete the characteristic.
  
  
  System Settings: Certain system settings or configurations may restrict the deletion of characteristics.
  
  
  Solution:
  
  
  Check Usage: Before attempting to delete a characteristic, check if it is being used in any existing objects. You can do this by:
  
  Navigating to the classification view of the relevant objects and checking for the characteristic.
  Using transaction codes like CL02 (Change Characteristic) to see where the characteristic is assigned.
  
  
  
  Remove Associations: If the characteristic is in use, you will need to remove it from all associated objects before you can delete it. This may involve:
  
  Editing the material master records or other objects to remove the characteristic.
  Ensuring that no classes or objects are dependent on the characteristic.
  
  
  
  Check Authorizations: Ensure that you have the necessary authorizations to delete characteristics. If not, contact your SAP security administrator to obtain the required permissions.
  
  
  Consult Documentation: Review SAP documentation or help resources for any specific guidelines related to the deletion of characteristics in your version of SAP.
  
  
  System Configuration: If the issue persists, check with your SAP Basis or technical team to see if there are any system settings that need to be adjusted.
  
  
  Related Information:
  
  Transaction Codes: Familiarize yourself with relevant transaction codes such as CL01 (Create Characteristic), CL02 (Change Characteristic), and CL03 (Display Characteristic) for managing characteristics.
  SAP Notes: Look for SAP Notes related to this error message for any patches or updates that may address the issue.
  SAP Community: Engage with the SAP Community forums for insights from other users who may have encountered similar issues.
  
  By following these steps, you should be able to identify the cause of the error and take appropriate action to resolve it.