How To Fix DFS_FE_COMMON173 - Characteristic end date must be earlier or same as ref.FE end date.

SAP Error Message - Details

• Message type: E = Error

• Message class: DFS_FE_COMMON - Message Class for DFS Force Element

• Message number: 173

• Message text: Characteristic end date must be earlier or same as ref.FE end date.

Self-Explanatory Message

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Smart SAP Assistant

• What is the cause and solution for SAP error message DFS_FE_COMMON173 - Characteristic end date must be earlier or same as ref.FE end date. ?

  The SAP error message DFS_FE_COMMON173 indicates that there is a mismatch between the end date of a characteristic and the reference feature end date in the system. This typically occurs in the context of Flexible Planning or similar functionalities where characteristics and their validity periods are defined.
  Cause:
  The error arises when:
  
  The end date of a characteristic (e.g., a planning characteristic) is set to a date that is later than the end date of the reference feature (e.g., a reference planning object or feature).
  This can happen due to incorrect data entry, or when changes are made to the reference feature's end date without adjusting the related characteristics accordingly.
  
  Solution:
  To resolve this error, you can take the following steps:
  
  
  Check the Dates:
  
  Review the end date of the characteristic that is causing the error.
  Compare it with the end date of the reference feature.
  
  
  
  Adjust the Characteristic End Date:
  
  If the characteristic end date is indeed later than the reference feature end date, you will need to adjust the characteristic's end date to be the same as or earlier than the reference feature's end date.
  
  
  
  Update the Reference Feature:
  
  If the characteristic end date is correct and should remain as is, consider updating the reference feature's end date to accommodate the characteristic.
  
  
  
  Data Consistency:
  
  Ensure that all related data entries are consistent and that there are no other characteristics or features that might be causing similar issues.
  
  
  
  Consult Documentation:
  
  Refer to SAP documentation or help resources for specific guidelines on managing characteristics and reference features in your version of SAP.
  
  
  
  Testing:
  
  After making the necessary adjustments, test the changes to ensure that the error no longer occurs.
  
  
  
  Related Information:
  
  Transaction Codes: You may need to use transaction codes like CVC1 (for characteristics) or CVC2 (for reference features) to view and edit the relevant data.
  SAP Notes: Check for any relevant SAP Notes that might address this specific error or provide additional context.
  User Roles: Ensure that you have the necessary permissions to make changes to characteristics and reference features in the system.
  
  If the issue persists after following these steps, it may be beneficial to consult with your SAP support team or a functional consultant who specializes in the area related to the error.