Product page, variants and WordPress SEO output
Check fixed canonical values on previous product or category addresses. A distant variant must not be continued as an unattainable main goal.
Compare the main variable product with called variant and category paths. The SEO plugin can set the preferred URL, while a customized product template also inserts its own canonical.
Where to check the setting in WooCommerce
Compare the normal product URL to a variant or category path URL. Check the canonical rule of the active WordPress SEO plugin and own additions in the theme. A variant selection alone does not justify a separate indexable product page.
Example of this specific finding
Illustrative control case: /article/? ref=mail refers via canonical to /alter-article/, the target answers with 404. The preferred address no longer contains the intended article.
follow-up audit in WooCommerce
Open a specific variant selection directly and compare it with the main product. The desired URL must match the visible product, price and selection status.
Determine the appropriate achievable goal and correct the canonical source. Then retrieve the source page and destination separately.
Derogations and scope
Any achievable goal is not a substitute. If the article no longer exists, first clarify the publishing state instead of just the canonical field.
Regarding: WooCommerce on WordPress. Block and classic product templates as well as SEO extensions can have different output locations.
Classify the general error
Definition, system-independent causes and further correction examples: The preferred target must have the intended content