How To Fix WL640 - Counter for maximum number of retries changed

SAP Error Message - Details

• Message type: E = Error

• Message class: WL - Workflow: run-time messages

• Message number: 640

• Message text: Counter for maximum number of retries changed

What causes this issue?

The counter indicating how often a work item with a temporary error is
executed again automatically before it is assigned the status <ZH>error
</> was changed successfully.

Error message extract from SAP system. Copyright SAP SE.

Smart SAP Assistant

• What is the cause and solution for SAP error message WL640 - Counter for maximum number of retries changed ?

  The SAP error message WL640, which states "Counter for maximum number of retries changed," typically occurs in the context of SAP's workflow or background processing. This message indicates that the system has reached the maximum number of retries for a particular operation, such as sending a message or executing a workflow task, and the retry counter has been modified.
  Cause:
  
  Maximum Retry Limit Reached: The error usually arises when a process (like a workflow or a background job) fails multiple times, and the system has a predefined limit for how many times it will attempt to retry the operation.
  Configuration Settings: The retry limit may be configured in the system settings, and if the operation continues to fail, the system will log this message.
  Underlying Issues: There may be underlying issues causing the operation to fail, such as network problems, incorrect configurations, or issues with the data being processed.
  
  Solution:
  
  Check Logs: Review the application logs (transaction SLG1) or workflow logs (transaction SWI1) to identify the root cause of the failures. Look for any specific error messages that can provide more context.
  Analyze the Workflow: If the error is related to a workflow, analyze the workflow definition and the specific task that is failing. Ensure that all necessary conditions and data are met for the task to execute successfully.
  Adjust Retry Settings: If appropriate, you can adjust the maximum retry settings in the configuration. This can usually be done in the relevant transaction (e.g., SWU3 for workflow settings).
  Fix Underlying Issues: Address any underlying issues that are causing the failures. This may involve correcting data, fixing network issues, or ensuring that all necessary services are running.
  Test the Process: After making changes, test the process to ensure that it works as expected and that the error does not recur.
  
  Related Information:
  
  Transaction Codes: Familiarize yourself with relevant transaction codes such as SWI1 (Workflow Log), SLG1 (Application Log), and SWU3 (Workflow Customizing).
  SAP Notes: Check for any SAP Notes related to this error message, as they may provide additional insights or patches that can resolve the issue.
  Documentation: Review SAP documentation on workflow management and error handling to better understand how to manage retries and failures.
  
  If the issue persists after following these steps, consider reaching out to SAP support for further assistance.