How To Fix SH518 - The specified Matchcode ID does not exist or is not active

SAP Error Message - Details

• Message type: E = Error

• Message class: SH - SAPhelp messages

• Message number: 518

• Message text: The specified Matchcode ID does not exist or is not active

What causes this issue?

The Matchcode ID entered via the quick input
=<mcid>.<selval1>.<selval2>... does not exist or is not active.

How to fix this error?

Please use the F4 key to find the existing search help (Matchcode IDs).

Error message extract from SAP system. Copyright SAP SE.

Smart SAP Assistant

• What is the cause and solution for SAP error message SH518 - The specified Matchcode ID does not exist or is not active ?

  The SAP error message SH518, which states "The specified Matchcode ID does not exist or is not active," typically occurs when a user attempts to use a matchcode (search help) that is either not defined in the system or is not currently active. Matchcodes are used in SAP to provide search help for fields, allowing users to find and select values more easily.
  Causes of SH518 Error
  
  Non-existent Matchcode ID: The matchcode ID you are trying to use does not exist in the system.
  Inactive Matchcode: The matchcode ID exists but is not activated or is inactive.
  Authorization Issues: The user may not have the necessary authorizations to access the matchcode.
  Configuration Issues: There may be issues with the configuration of the matchcode in the relevant data dictionary objects.
  
  Solutions to SH518 Error
  
  
  Check Matchcode ID:
  
  Verify that the matchcode ID you are trying to use is correct. Check for any typos or incorrect entries.
  
  
  
  Activate Matchcode:
  
  If the matchcode ID exists but is inactive, you may need to activate it. This can typically be done by:
  
  Going to transaction code SE11 (Data Dictionary).
  Entering the matchcode ID and checking its status.
  If it is inactive, you can activate it from the matchcode settings.
  
  
  
  
  
  Create Matchcode:
  
  If the matchcode ID does not exist, you may need to create it. This involves:
  
  Using transaction code SE11 to create a new matchcode object.
  Defining the necessary fields and settings for the matchcode.
  
  
  
  
  
  Check Authorizations:
  
  Ensure that the user has the necessary authorizations to access the matchcode. This may involve checking user roles and profiles in transaction SU01.
  
  
  
  Consult Documentation:
  
  Review SAP documentation or consult with your SAP Basis or functional team for specific details related to the matchcode in question.
  
  
  
  System Configuration:
  
  If the issue persists, it may be necessary to check the overall system configuration or consult with your SAP support team to ensure that everything is set up correctly.
  
  
  
  Related Information
  
  
  Transaction Codes:
  
  SE11: Data Dictionary for checking and creating matchcodes.
  SU01: User Maintenance for checking user authorizations.
  
  
  
  Matchcode Types:
  
  Matchcodes can be based on various types of data, including database tables, views, or custom search helps.
  
  
  
  SAP Notes:
  
  Check SAP Notes for any known issues or patches related to matchcodes and the specific error message SH518.
  
  
  
  By following these steps, you should be able to resolve the SH518 error and ensure that the matchcode functionality works as intended in your SAP system.