How To Fix KX172 - Correct characteristic value or enter text for new characteristic value

SAP Error Message - Details

• Message type: E = Error

• Message class: KX - EC-EIS/EC-BP: Data basis, data collection

• Message number: 172

• Message text: Correct characteristic value or enter text for new characteristic value

What causes this issue?

The characteristic value you entered is not contained in the master
data nor does it exist as a non-chargeable characteristic value. In
an external hierarchy, you can only maintain characteristic values
which fall into one of the above categories.

How to fix this error?

Check whether the characteristic value you entered is correct.
You can display a list of existing characteristic values using F4. If
the characteristic value you require does not exist, you can enter a
text for the characteristic value and add it as a non-chargeable node.
If you wish to create master data for the characteristic value (that
is, create a chargeable node), you need to maintain the master data.

Error message extract from SAP system. Copyright SAP SE.

Smart SAP Assistant

• What is the cause and solution for SAP error message KX172 - Correct characteristic value or enter text for new characteristic value ?

  The SAP error message KX172 ("Correct characteristic value or enter text for new characteristic value") typically occurs in the context of SAP Controlling (CO) when working with characteristics in the context of Profitability Analysis (CO-PA) or other related modules. This error indicates that there is an issue with the characteristic value being entered, either because it is invalid or because it lacks a description.
  Cause:
  
  Invalid Characteristic Value: The characteristic value you are trying to enter does not exist in the system or is not valid for the specific characteristic.
  Missing Description: The characteristic value does not have an associated text or description in the system, which is required for it to be valid.
  Data Entry Error: There may be a typographical error in the characteristic value being entered.
  
  Solution:
  
  
  Check Characteristic Values:
  
  Verify that the characteristic value you are entering is valid. You can do this by checking the configuration of the characteristics in the relevant customizing settings (transaction code: SPRO).
  Navigate to the relevant section for defining characteristics and ensure that the value exists.
  
  
  
  Add Missing Descriptions:
  
  If the characteristic value is valid but lacks a description, you will need to add a text for that characteristic value. This can typically be done in the customizing settings where you define the characteristics.
  Use transaction code CT04 to create or modify the characteristic and ensure that all necessary texts are provided.
  
  
  
  Correct Data Entry:
  
  Double-check the value you are entering for any typographical errors. Ensure that it matches exactly with the defined values in the system.
  
  
  
  Consult Documentation:
  
  If you are unsure about the valid characteristic values or how to add descriptions, refer to the SAP documentation or consult with your SAP functional consultant.
  
  
  
  Testing:
  
  After making the necessary corrections, try to enter the characteristic value again to see if the error persists.
  
  
  
  Related Information:
  
  Transaction Codes: Familiarize yourself with relevant transaction codes such as CT04 (to maintain characteristics) and SPRO (to access the customizing settings).
  SAP Notes: Check for any SAP Notes related to this error message for additional guidance or patches that may address specific issues.
  User Authorization: Ensure that you have the necessary authorizations to make changes to characteristics and their descriptions.
  
  If the issue persists after following these steps, it may be beneficial to consult with your SAP support team or a technical consultant for further assistance.