How To Fix SVMCRT_LOCKING005 - Cannot lock [&1, &2, &3, &4], being used by others

SAP Error Message - Details

• Message type: E = Error

• Message class: SVMCRT_LOCKING - VMC Locking

• Message number: 005

• Message text: Cannot lock [&1, &2, &3, &4], being used by others

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.

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Smart SAP Assistant

• What is the cause and solution for SAP error message SVMCRT_LOCKING005 - Cannot lock [&1, &2, &3, &4], being used by others ?

  The SAP error message SVMCRT_LOCKING005 indicates that a resource (such as a document, object, or data record) cannot be locked because it is currently being used by another user or process. This is a common issue in systems where multiple users or processes may attempt to access or modify the same resource simultaneously.
  Cause:
  The error typically occurs due to one of the following reasons:
  
  Concurrent Access: Another user or process is currently accessing the resource, preventing your session from obtaining a lock.
  Long-Running Transactions: A transaction that takes a long time to complete may hold the lock longer than expected.
  Deadlocks: In some cases, a deadlock situation may arise where two or more processes are waiting for each other to release locks.
  System Configuration: Certain configurations or settings in the SAP system may lead to locking issues.
  
  Solution:
  To resolve the error, you can try the following steps:
  
  
  Wait and Retry: If the resource is being used by another user, wait for a short period and then try again. The lock may be released once the other user completes their transaction.
  
  
  Identify the Lock: Use transaction code SM12 to check for existing locks. You can see which user or process is holding the lock on the resource. If necessary, you can ask the user to release the lock or, if appropriate, you can delete the lock entry (be cautious with this approach).
  
  
  Check for Long Transactions: If you suspect that a long-running transaction is causing the lock, you can use transaction code SM66 to monitor active processes and identify any that may be holding locks for an extended period.
  
  
  Review Code and Processes: If this error occurs frequently, review the code or processes that access the resource. Ensure that locks are being managed properly and that transactions are kept as short as possible.
  
  
  System Configuration: Consult with your SAP Basis team to review system settings related to locking mechanisms. They may need to adjust parameters or configurations to improve locking behavior.
  
  
  Consult Documentation: Refer to SAP Notes or documentation related to locking mechanisms for specific guidance on your version of SAP.
  
  
  Related Information:
  
  
  Transaction Codes:
  
  SM12: Display and manage lock entries.
  SM66: Monitor global work processes.
  SM21: Check system logs for any related errors or warnings.
  
  
  
  SAP Notes: Search for relevant SAP Notes in the SAP Support Portal that may address specific issues related to locking and concurrency.
  
  
  Performance Tuning: Consider performance tuning of the application or database to reduce the likelihood of locking issues.
  
  
  If the problem persists after trying these solutions, it may be beneficial to engage with SAP support for further assistance.