How To Fix SWF_RUN813 - Attempt to clean up workflow instance failed

SAP Error Message - Details

• Message type: E = Error

• Message class: SWF_RUN - Workflow Runtime System

• Message number: 813

• Message text: Attempt to clean up workflow instance failed

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 SWF_RUN813 - Attempt to clean up workflow instance failed ?

  The SAP error message SWF_RUN813 indicates that there was an attempt to clean up a workflow instance, but the operation failed. This error can occur for various reasons, and understanding the cause and potential solutions is essential for resolving the issue.
  Causes:
  
  Database Locking Issues: The workflow instance may be locked in the database, preventing the cleanup process from completing.
  Inconsistent Workflow State: The workflow instance may be in an inconsistent state, possibly due to previous errors or interruptions.
  Authorization Issues: The user or process attempting to clean up the workflow may not have the necessary authorizations.
  Technical Errors: There may be underlying technical issues, such as problems with the workflow definition or system configuration.
  System Performance: High system load or performance issues can lead to timeouts or failures in processing the cleanup.
  
  Solutions:
  
  Check Workflow Logs: Review the workflow logs for any additional error messages or details that can provide insight into why the cleanup failed.
  Release Locks: If the issue is related to database locks, you may need to release the locks manually. This can often be done using transaction codes like SM12 (for lock entries) or SM21 (for system logs).
  Check Workflow Instance Status: Use transaction SWI1 (Work Item Selection) or SWI2_FREQ (Work Item Overview) to check the status of the workflow instance and see if it can be manually completed or deleted.
  Review Authorizations: Ensure that the user or process has the necessary authorizations to perform cleanup operations on workflow instances.
  Restart Workflow: If the workflow instance is in an inconsistent state, consider restarting the workflow or re-executing the relevant steps.
  System Performance Monitoring: Monitor system performance and check for any bottlenecks that may be affecting workflow processing. Address any performance issues as needed.
  Consult SAP Notes: Check the SAP Support Portal for any relevant SAP Notes that may address this specific error or provide additional troubleshooting steps.
  
  Related Information:
  
  Transaction Codes: Familiarize yourself with relevant transaction codes such as SWI1, SWI2, SWF_XI, and SWF_WORKFLOW for managing and monitoring workflows.
  SAP Community: Engage with the SAP Community forums for insights and shared experiences from other users who may have encountered similar issues.
  SAP Support: If the issue persists and cannot be resolved through the above steps, consider reaching out to SAP Support for further assistance.
  
  By following these steps, you should be able to diagnose and resolve the SWF_RUN813 error effectively.