How To Fix QP851 - Master inspection characteristic &1 &2 &3 cannot be replaced

SAP Error Message - Details

• Message type: E = Error

• Message class: QP - Message IDs for function module group QPAA

• Message number: 851

• Message text: Master inspection characteristic &1 &2 &3 cannot be replaced

What causes this issue?

The master inspection characteristic cannot be replaced. There may be
two reasons for this:
the master inspection characteristic is not used as a reference
characteristic in any inspection plan.
the master inspection characteristic is defined as an incomplete master
inspection characteristic.

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?

Error message extract from SAP system. Copyright SAP SE.

Smart SAP Assistant

• What is the cause and solution for SAP error message QP851 - Master inspection characteristic &1 &2 &3 cannot be replaced ?

  The SAP error message QP851 indicates that there is an issue with replacing a master inspection characteristic in the Quality Management (QM) module. This error typically arises when you attempt to replace a characteristic that is either not allowed to be replaced or is currently in use in a way that prevents its modification.
  Causes of Error QP851
  
  Characteristic in Use: The master inspection characteristic you are trying to replace is currently being used in a quality plan or inspection lot.
  Locked Characteristics: The characteristic may be locked due to ongoing processes or configurations that prevent changes.
  Incorrect Configuration: The characteristic may not be configured correctly, or there may be dependencies that prevent its replacement.
  Authorization Issues: Lack of proper authorization to modify the characteristic can also lead to this error.
  
  Solutions to Error QP851
  
  
  Check Usage: Verify if the master inspection characteristic is currently being used in any active quality plans or inspection lots. If it is, you may need to remove it from those plans or wait until they are completed.
  
  
  Unlock the Characteristic: If the characteristic is locked, check if there are any ongoing processes that need to be completed or if the characteristic can be unlocked by an administrator.
  
  
  Review Configuration: Ensure that the characteristic is configured correctly and that there are no dependencies that would prevent its replacement. You may need to consult with your SAP QM configuration team.
  
  
  Authorization Check: Ensure that you have the necessary authorizations to modify the master inspection characteristic. If not, contact your SAP security administrator to obtain the required permissions.
  
  
  Use Alternative Methods: If replacement is not possible, consider creating a new master inspection characteristic instead of replacing the existing one.
  
  
  Related Information
  
  Transaction Codes: You may use transaction codes like QMP1 (Create Master Inspection Characteristic) or QMP2 (Change Master Inspection Characteristic) to manage characteristics.
  SAP Notes: Check SAP Notes for any specific patches or updates related to this error message. Sometimes, there may be known issues that have been addressed in later releases.
  Documentation: Refer to the SAP Help Portal for detailed documentation on master inspection characteristics and their management within the QM module.
  
  If the issue persists after trying the above solutions, it may be beneficial to consult with your SAP support team or reach out to SAP support for further assistance.