Most breakdowns we see could have been caught by a five-minute check. Here’s a schedule that works in real shops. Always follow your machine builder’s manual where it differs.
Every day (operator)
- Check way lube and hydraulic levels
- Check air pressure
- Check coolant level and concentration
- Clear chips from the tool changer, way covers and sensors
- Warm up the spindle, especially in a cold shop
- Listen for new noises
Every week
- Clean the spindle taper and tool holders
- Check way wipers and covers for damage
- Drain water from air filters and regulators
- Check chuck and turret function on lathes
- Clean chip conveyor and coolant screens
Every month
- Clean electrical cabinet filters and fans
- Check for oil or coolant leaks
- Check backlash on each axis
- Grease chucks per the builder’s schedule
- Back up parameters and programs
Every 6 to 12 months
- Replace hydraulic oil and filters as specified
- Clean or replace the coolant tank
- Check machine level
- Run a ballbar test or have it done
- Check spindle runout and drawbar force
- Replace control memory batteries per the builder’s schedule
When to bring in a pro
Annual alignment, ballbar and laser checks, spindle health checks and drive inspections are worth paying for. Many repair companies sell preventive maintenance plans with set visits each year.
Need a repair tech?Find a verified repair tech near you, or send one request.
Find CNC repairMore guides for shop owners
Guide · 2 min readBallbar tests and laser calibration, explained for shop ownersWhat these tests measure, when you need them, and what the report tells you.Guide · 2 min readBuying a used CNC machine? What to inspect before you payA checklist for inspecting a used mill or lathe, and why a pre-purchase inspection from a repair tech is worth it.Guide · 2 min readHow to get the most out of a CNC service visitSmall things that cut the tech's time on site and your bill: scheduling, access, an operator on hand and the info to have ready.Guide · 2 min readRepair or replace? How to decide on an old CNC machineA straight way to decide whether to fix, rebuild, retrofit or replace an aging machine.