How To Fix /SMB/CENTRALDATA018 - Change Recording could not be locked due to a system error

SAP Error Message - Details

• Message type: E = Error

• Message class: /SMB/CENTRALDATA -

• Message number: 018

• Message text: Change Recording could not be locked due to a system error

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 /SMB/CENTRALDATA018 - Change Recording could not be locked due to a system error ?

  The SAP error message /SMB/CENTRALDATA018 Change Recording could not be locked due to a system error typically indicates an issue with the change recording mechanism in the SAP system. This error can arise due to various reasons, including database locks, inconsistencies in the change recording tables, or issues with the underlying database.
  Causes:
  
  Database Locking Issues: The change recording tables may be locked by another process, preventing the current operation from acquiring the necessary lock.
  Inconsistencies in Change Recording Tables: If there are inconsistencies or corruption in the change recording tables, it can lead to this error.
  System Resource Issues: Insufficient system resources (like memory or CPU) can also lead to this error.
  Configuration Issues: Incorrect configuration settings related to change recording can cause this error.
  Transport Issues: If there are issues with transport requests that affect the change recording functionality, it may lead to this error.
  
  Solutions:
  
  Check for Locks: Use transaction code SM12 to check for any locks on the change recording tables. If you find any locks that are not needed, you can delete them.
  Check Change Recording Tables: Use transaction codes like SE11 to check the structure and data in the change recording tables. Look for any inconsistencies or corruption.
  System Resources: Monitor system resources using transaction SM50 or SM66 to ensure that the system is not overloaded. If necessary, optimize performance or increase resources.
  Review Configuration: Check the configuration settings related to change recording in the system. Ensure that they are set up correctly.
  Check Transport Requests: If the issue started after a transport, check the transport logs for any errors or issues that might have affected change recording.
  Restart Services: Sometimes, restarting the relevant services or the entire SAP system can resolve temporary issues.
  SAP Notes: Check the SAP Support Portal for any relevant SAP Notes that might address this specific error. There may be patches or updates available that resolve the issue.
  
  Related Information:
  
  Transaction Codes: Familiarize yourself with relevant transaction codes such as SM12 (for lock entries), SM21 (for system logs), ST22 (for dumps), and SLG1 (for application logs) to diagnose the issue further.
  SAP Support: If the issue persists after trying the above solutions, consider reaching out to SAP Support for assistance. Provide them with detailed information about the error, including any logs or screenshots that may help in diagnosing the problem.
  
  By following these steps, you should be able to identify and resolve the underlying cause of the /SMB/CENTRALDATA018 error in your SAP system.