How To Fix WL641 - Counter for maximum number of retries not changed

SAP Error Message - Details

• Message type: E = Error

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

• Message number: 641

• Message text: Counter for maximum number of retries not 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
</> could not be changed due to a database error.

System Response

The action was terminated, the counter is not changed.

How to fix this error?

Check the entries in table SWWERRESTA.

The system issues an error message and will not allow you to continue with this transaction until the error is resolved.

INCLUDE NA_WF-ADMINISTRATOR OBJECT DOKU ID TX

Error message extract from SAP system. Copyright SAP SE.

Smart SAP Assistant

• What is the cause and solution for SAP error message WL641 - Counter for maximum number of retries not changed ?

  The SAP error message WL641, which states "Counter for maximum number of retries not changed," typically occurs in the context of SAP's workflow or background processing. This error indicates that the system has reached the maximum number of retries for a particular operation, and it has not been able to successfully complete the task after the allowed attempts.
  Cause:
  
  Maximum Retry Limit Reached: The system has a predefined limit for how many times it will attempt to execute a particular task or workflow. If the task fails repeatedly, the system will stop trying after reaching this limit.
  Configuration Issues: There may be issues with the configuration of the workflow or the background job that is causing it to fail.
  System Errors: There could be underlying system errors, such as database connectivity issues, authorization problems, or other technical errors that prevent the task from completing successfully.
  Data Issues: The data being processed may be incorrect or incomplete, leading to failures in the workflow or job execution.
  
  Solution:
  
  Check Logs: Review the application logs (transaction SLG1) and the job logs (transaction SM37) to identify the specific reason for the failures. This will provide insight into what is causing the retries.
  Adjust Retry Settings: If appropriate, you can adjust the maximum number of retries in the configuration settings. This can be done in the relevant transaction or configuration area, depending on the specific workflow or job.
  Fix Underlying Issues: Address any underlying issues that are causing the task to fail. This may involve correcting data, fixing configuration settings, or resolving system errors.
  Manual Intervention: If the task is critical, you may need to manually intervene to complete the task or to reset the workflow/job.
  Consult Documentation: Refer to SAP documentation or support notes related to the specific workflow or job to understand any known issues or recommended practices.
  
  Related Information:
  
  Transaction Codes: Familiarize yourself with relevant transaction codes such as SLG1 (Application Log), SM37 (Job Monitoring), and SWI1 (Workflow Overview) to help diagnose and resolve the issue.
  SAP Notes: Check SAP Notes for any known issues or patches related to the specific workflow or job that is failing.
  Support: If the issue persists and you cannot resolve it, consider reaching out to SAP support for further assistance.
  
  By following these steps, you should be able to identify the cause of the WL641 error and implement a solution to resolve it.