How To Fix EL398 - Data is inconsistent and could not be saved

SAP Error Message - Details

• Message type: E = Error

• Message class: EL - IS-U meter reading data processing

• Message number: 398

• Message text: Data is inconsistent and could not be saved

What causes this issue?

The validation that checks whether the entries in tables EABL (meter
reading document) and EABLG (meter reading reasons for the meter
reading documents) have been correctly written to the database has
found an inconsistency. As a result, the data was not saved in the
database.
The inconsistency was detected for meter reading document number &v1&.

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?

Please check whether the inconsistent data is present in the database.
Clean up the inconsistent data.
If you cannot clean up the inconsistent data, please contact SAP.
Please be sure to include the following information:
wmode: &v2&
action: &v3&
sy-batch: &v4&

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 EL398 - Data is inconsistent and could not be saved ?

  The SAP error message EL398, which states "Data is inconsistent and could not be saved," typically indicates that there is a problem with the data being processed in the system. This error can occur in various contexts, such as during the creation or modification of master data, transactional data, or configuration settings. Here are some common causes, potential solutions, and related information for this error:
  Causes:
  
  
  Data Validation Issues: The data being entered may not meet the required validation rules set in the system. This could include missing mandatory fields, incorrect data formats, or values that do not conform to predefined criteria.
  
  
  Inconsistent Data Relationships: There may be inconsistencies in the relationships between different data entities. For example, if a material master record references a non-existent vendor or customer.
  
  
  Custom Code or Enhancements: If there are custom developments or enhancements in the system, they may be causing conflicts or errors during data processing.
  
  
  Database Constraints: There may be database-level constraints (like foreign key constraints) that are being violated due to the data being saved.
  
  
  Transport Issues: If changes were recently transported from a development environment to production, there may be inconsistencies due to missing objects or dependencies.
  
  
  Solutions:
  
  
  Check Data Input: Review the data being entered for any missing or incorrect information. Ensure that all mandatory fields are filled out correctly.
  
  
  Review Error Logs: Check the application logs (transaction SLG1) or the short dump analysis (transaction ST22) for more detailed error messages that can provide insights into what is causing the inconsistency.
  
  
  Data Consistency Checks: Use transaction codes like SE11 (Data Dictionary) or SE16 (Data Browser) to check the relevant tables for inconsistencies. You may need to run consistency checks or reports specific to the module you are working with.
  
  
  Debugging: If you have access to the development environment, you can debug the process to identify where the inconsistency is occurring. This may require the help of a developer.
  
  
  Consult Documentation: Review any relevant SAP notes or documentation that may address this specific error. SAP Support Portal can be a valuable resource.
  
  
  Contact SAP Support: If the issue persists and you cannot identify the cause, consider reaching out to SAP Support for assistance. Provide them with detailed information about the error, including transaction codes, data being processed, and any relevant logs.
  
  
  Related Information:
  
  Transaction Codes: Familiarize yourself with relevant transaction codes that can help in troubleshooting, such as SE11, SE16, SLG1, and ST22.
  SAP Notes: Search for SAP Notes related to error EL398 in the SAP Support Portal. There may be specific notes that address known issues or provide patches.
  User Forums: Consider checking SAP community forums or other user groups where similar issues may have been discussed.
  
  By following these steps, you should be able to identify the cause of the EL398 error and take appropriate action to resolve it.