How To Fix MH166 - System error while locking the purchasing info record

SAP Error Message - Details

• Message type: E = Error

• Message class: MH - Maintain Material Master Data (Retail)

• Message number: 166

• Message text: System error while locking the purchasing info record

Self-Explanatory Message

Since SAP believes that this specific error message is 'self-explanatory,' no more information has been given.The majority of messages in the SAP system have a message text, however this is frequently insufficient to comprehend or resolve the problem.

To make things easier, more detailed information is frequently added to describe the issue, how to fix it, and the necessary steps or configuration modifications.

Unfortunately, there isn't any extra information in this error notice.

What else can you do?

First, use our AnswerBot below to get a possible cause and solution (requires a premium subscription).

Also, review the in-depth Common Questions & Answers listed below; you could discover a solution there or be able to connect with others who have faced similar challenges.

You can also try searching the SAP support portal (support.sap.com) but you need a special user ID to access it. It is possible that an SAP support note exists that provides additional details about the mistake or even steps for fixing it.

Smart SAP Assistant

• What is the cause and solution for SAP error message MH166 - System error while locking the purchasing info record ?

  The SAP error message MH166, which states "System error while locking the purchasing info record," typically occurs when there is an issue with the locking mechanism in the SAP system related to purchasing info records. This can happen for various reasons, including database inconsistencies, system performance issues, or conflicts with other transactions.
  Causes:
  
  Database Lock Conflicts: Another user or process may be holding a lock on the purchasing info record, preventing your transaction from acquiring the necessary lock.
  System Performance Issues: High system load or performance issues can lead to timeouts or failures in acquiring locks.
  Inconsistent Data: There may be inconsistencies in the database that prevent the system from properly locking the record.
  Transaction Errors: Errors in the transaction or program logic that lead to improper handling of locks.
  
  Solutions:
  
  Check Lock Entries: Use transaction code SM12 to check for existing lock entries. If you find locks that are no longer needed, you can delete them (if you have the necessary authorizations).
  Retry the Transaction: Sometimes, simply retrying the transaction after a short wait can resolve the issue, especially if it was caused by a temporary lock.
  System Performance Monitoring: Monitor system performance using transaction codes like SM37 (job monitoring) or ST22 (dump analysis) to identify any underlying issues that may be affecting performance.
  Database Consistency Check: If you suspect data inconsistencies, you may need to run consistency checks or consult with your database administrator.
  Contact SAP Support: If the issue persists and you cannot identify the cause, it may be necessary to contact SAP support for further assistance. Provide them with detailed information about the error, including transaction codes, user IDs, and any relevant logs.
  
  Related Information:
  
  
  Transaction Codes:
  
  SM12: Display and manage lock entries.
  SM21: System log for monitoring system messages.
  ST22: Dump analysis for checking runtime errors.
  SM37: Job monitoring for checking background jobs.
  
  
  
  SAP Notes: Check the SAP Support Portal for any relevant SAP Notes that may address this specific error or provide additional troubleshooting steps.
  
  
  User Authorizations: Ensure that the user has the necessary authorizations to perform the actions related to purchasing info records.
  
  
  By following these steps, you should be able to diagnose and resolve the MH166 error in SAP.