5 Things to Check Before Buying a CNC Machine

April 27, 2025

Buying a used CNC machine is a big investment. Whether you're upgrading your shop or expanding production, it’s critical to know exactly what you’re getting. In this guide, we'll cover the 5 most important things to inspect before you sign the deal — and how a verified machine report can help you make the right choice.

1. Machine History

  • Always ask for a complete maintenance history.
  • Look for logs of repairs, upgrades, or service checks.
  • Verify the reported usage matches the machine’s true wear-and-tear.

Tip:

If the seller doesn’t have maintenance logs, a verified machine report can fill in the gaps.

2. Maintenance Condition

  • Inspect visible wear points: ball screws, linear guides, spindles, and way covers.
  • Check lubrication systems and hydraulic lines.
  • Signs of poor maintenance = expensive repairs ahead.

3. Hours of Operation

  • Machines track their spindle hours and on-time hours separately.
  • Low spindle hours but high on-time could mean a lot of idling — not necessarily a bad thing, but worth investigating.
  • Look for balanced usage.

4. Accuracy and Calibration

  • Test the machine's precision.
  • Look for backlash, misalignment, or calibration errors.
  • Bring simple tools like a dial indicator if possible.

5. Control System and Software

  • Make sure the CNC control system boots up without issues.
  • Check software versions — outdated control systems can be very expensive to upgrade.
  • Test common program loads and edits.

Conclusion:

A CNC machine can either be your biggest asset or a hidden money pit. Protect yourself by verifying the machine’s condition with a trusted inspection and a CNC Machine Report from CNCTRAX. Don’t just take a seller’s word — make sure your next machine is a smart investment.

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