Error
Error Code:
685
SAP S/4HANA Error 685: Missing SQL Hint Record
Description
This error indicates that an SQL statement in SAP S/4HANA is attempting to use a performance optimization hint (a 'statement hint record') that does not exist in the database or system catalog. This typically occurs when a referenced hint has been deleted, renamed, or was never properly created or activated, preventing the system from executing the SQL statement with the intended optimization.
Error Message
ERR_SQL_STATEMENT_HINT_RECORD_DOES_NOT_EXIST
Known Causes
3 known causesStatement Hint Record Deleted
The specific SQL statement hint record referenced by the query has been inadvertently deleted or renamed from the system's database catalog.
Hint Record Never Existed
The SQL statement attempts to use a hint record that was never properly created, activated, or deployed in the SAP S/4HANA system.
Incorrect Hint Reference
The SQL statement contains a typographical error or an incorrect identifier when referencing the statement hint record, leading to a lookup failure.
Solutions
3 solutions available1. Recreate Missing SQL Hint Record medium
Re-generates the SQL hint record for the affected SQL statement.
1
Identify the specific SQL statement that is causing the error. This often requires analyzing the SAP application logs (SM21, ST22) or the database trace files.
2
Access the SAP system using a user with appropriate development or administration authorizations (e.g., DDIC).
3
Navigate to transaction SE14 (Database Utility).
4
In the 'Table Name' field, enter the name of the table associated with the problematic SQL statement. If the error points to a specific function module or class, you might need to identify the table(s) it accesses.
5
Click on the 'Activate and Adjust Database' button.
6
In the subsequent dialog box, ensure that the 'Create database index' and 'Create database table' options are selected if applicable. Crucially, select the 'Generate SQL Hints' option. Then, click 'Continue'.
7
Observe the process. SE14 will attempt to recreate the database structure and regenerate SQL hints for the specified table. Check the output for any errors during this process.
8
Test the SAP functionality that was previously failing to confirm if the error is resolved.
2. Update Database Statistics easy
Ensures the database optimizer has accurate information for query execution.
1
Access the SAP system with administrative privileges.
2
Navigate to transaction ST04 (Database Performance Monitor).
3
Under the 'Detail Analysis Menu', select 'Optimizer' -> 'Update Statistics'.
4
Choose the relevant schema (usually SID) and select the option to update statistics for all tables or specific tables if you can narrow down the scope. For a quick fix, updating all is often sufficient.
5
Execute the statistics update. This process can take time depending on the size of your database.
6
After the statistics are updated, try to reproduce the error. If the error persists, proceed with other solutions.
3. Analyze and Rebuild SQL Hint for Specific Statement advanced
Directly targets the problematic SQL statement to fix its hint record.
1
Identify the exact SQL statement causing the error. This is critical. Use transaction ST05 (Performance Trace) to capture SQL statements executed during the problematic business process.
2
Once the SQL statement is identified, you'll need to analyze it. In S/4HANA, SQL hints are managed by the system. You might need to consult with SAP support or experienced ABAP developers to understand how these hints are generated and stored.
3
If the issue is confirmed to be a corrupted or missing hint for a specific statement, the most robust solution is often to trigger a regeneration of the statement's hints. This can sometimes be achieved by:
a) Deactivating and reactivating the related ABAP program or function module (if known).
b) Using SAP Notes or support packages that specifically address SQL hint management for certain scenarios.
c) In extreme cases, and with SAP support guidance, it might involve more direct database manipulation, but this is highly discouraged without expert advice.
a) Deactivating and reactivating the related ABAP program or function module (if known).
b) Using SAP Notes or support packages that specifically address SQL hint management for certain scenarios.
c) In extreme cases, and with SAP support guidance, it might involve more direct database manipulation, but this is highly discouraged without expert advice.
4
If the error is linked to a specific SAP Note, implement the relevant support package or manual correction as described in the note. These notes often contain fixes for incorrect SQL hint generation.
5
After applying any relevant corrections or performing regeneration steps, test the functionality thoroughly.