How To Fix /SAPCND/MAINTENANCE718 - You may not change a key field for an existing record.

SAP Error Message - Details

• Message type: E = Error

• Message class: /SAPCND/MAINTENANCE -

• Message number: 718

• Message text: You may not change a key field for an existing 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 /SAPCND/MAINTENANCE718 - You may not change a key field for an existing record. ?

  The SAP error message /SAPCND/MAINTENANCE718 indicates that you are attempting to change a key field of an existing record in a database table or a data structure that is not allowed. Key fields are critical identifiers for records, and changing them can lead to data integrity issues, which is why SAP restricts such operations.
  Cause:
  
  Key Field Modification: You are trying to modify a field that is defined as a key in the database table or structure.
  Data Integrity Constraints: The system enforces data integrity rules that prevent changes to key fields to maintain consistency and avoid orphaned records or broken relationships.
  Incorrect Transaction: You might be using a transaction or program that does not allow changes to key fields for existing records.
  
  Solution:
  
  Review the Change: Determine if the change to the key field is absolutely necessary. If it is not, consider leaving the key field unchanged.
  Create a New Record: If you need to change the key field, you may need to create a new record with the desired key value and then delete the old record if it is no longer needed.
  Use a Different Approach: If the change is part of a larger process, consider whether there is an alternative approach that does not require changing the key field.
  Check Authorization: Ensure that you have the necessary authorizations to perform the operation you are attempting. Sometimes, restrictions can be due to authorization issues.
  Consult Documentation: Review the relevant SAP documentation or help files for the specific transaction or table you are working with to understand the rules regarding key fields.
  
  Related Information:
  
  Key Fields: Key fields are defined in the data dictionary (SE11) and are used to uniquely identify records in a table.
  Data Dictionary: You can check the structure of the table and see which fields are defined as key fields using transaction SE11.
  SAP Notes: Check for any relevant SAP Notes that might provide additional context or solutions for this error message.
  Support: If you are unable to resolve the issue, consider reaching out to your SAP support team or consulting with an SAP expert who can provide guidance based on your specific scenario.
  
  By following these steps, you should be able to address the error message and understand the implications of changing key fields in SAP.