How To Fix SY156 - Discrepancy between table index and data

SAP Error Message - Details

• Message type: E = Error

• Message class: SY - ABAP/4 system messages

• Message number: 156

• Message text: Discrepancy between table index and data

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.

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Smart SAP Assistant

• What is the cause and solution for SAP error message SY156 - Discrepancy between table index and data ?

  The SAP error message SY156 indicates a discrepancy between the index and the data in a database table. This typically occurs when the data in the table is not consistent with the index that is supposed to represent it. This inconsistency can lead to various issues, including incorrect data retrieval and application errors.
  Causes of SY156
  
  Database Corruption: The most common cause is corruption in the database, which can happen due to hardware failures, improper shutdowns, or software bugs.
  Improper Index Maintenance: If indexes are not properly maintained or updated after data changes, discrepancies can arise.
  Concurrent Data Modifications: If multiple processes are modifying the same data simultaneously without proper locking mechanisms, it can lead to inconsistencies.
  Transport Issues: If changes are transported between systems without proper synchronization, it can lead to discrepancies.
  
  Solutions to SY156
  
  
  Rebuild the Index: The first step is to rebuild the index for the affected table. This can often resolve the discrepancy. You can do this using transaction codes like SE14 (Database Utility) or SE11 (Data Dictionary).
  
  Go to SE14, enter the table name, and choose the option to "Rebuild Index".
  
  
  
  Check for Database Consistency: Use the database tools provided by your database management system (DBMS) to check for consistency and repair any issues.
  
  For example, in Oracle, you might use the ANALYZE command, and in SQL Server, you might use DBCC CHECKDB.
  
  
  
  Data Consistency Check: Run consistency checks on the data to ensure that it matches the expected state. This can involve checking for orphaned records or invalid entries.
  
  
  SAP Notes: Check the SAP Support Portal for any relevant SAP Notes that may address this specific error. There may be patches or updates that can resolve underlying issues.
  
  
  Consult with Basis Team: If the issue persists, it may be necessary to involve your SAP Basis team or database administrator to perform deeper diagnostics and repairs.
  
  
  Backup and Restore: If the issue is severe and cannot be resolved through the above methods, consider restoring the database from a backup taken before the issue occurred.
  
  
  Related Information
  
  Transaction Codes: Familiarize yourself with transaction codes like SE14 (Database Utility), SE11 (Data Dictionary), and SE80 (Object Navigator) for managing database objects.
  Database Logs: Check the database logs for any errors or warnings that might provide more context about the issue.
  SAP Community: Engage with the SAP Community forums for insights from other users who may have encountered similar issues.
  Documentation: Review SAP documentation related to database management and index maintenance for best practices.
  
  Always ensure that you have a backup of your data before performing any operations that modify the database structure or data.