To provide basis for the reliability improvement design of CNC system, the failure data of a type of CNC system in one year are collected under field conditions in workshops. The distribution model parameters of time between failures are estimated by least square method and hypothesis testing is done by d-test method. It is proved that the time between failures of the CNC system follows Weibull distribution and the system has entered into the wear-out failure period. The failure positions and failure causes are analyzed further to indicate the weak subsystems of the CNC system. It can be found that servo unit, electrical system, detecting unit and power supply are principal failure positions and the main failure cause is breakage of components. The corresponding improvement measures are put forward. The paper provides a reference to reliability design and analysis of CNC system for the manufacturer and has great guidance to using and maintaining CNC system for the user.