Refurbished vs New MRI Scanner: Costs, Warranty and What to Check
An MRI scanner is one of the largest investments a hospital or diagnostic centre will make. Choosing between a new and a refurbished system affects not just the purchase price but your installation timeline, running costs and service options. This guide sets out the differences so you can make an informed decision.
Cost comparison
As a guide, a refurbished 1.5T MRI system fully installed typically ranges from £200,000 to £500,000, depending on the model, age, coils and the amount of building work required. Open MRI systems (around 0.3T to 0.4T) start from about £100,000. New systems usually cost several times more than a comparable refurbished scanner, before installation.
Advantages of a refurbished MRI scanner
Lower capital cost, which can make a new MRI service viable much sooner.
Proven platforms with well-understood performance and good parts availability.
Shorter lead times in many cases, as systems are often available from stock.
Excellent clinical image quality for routine brain, spine, MSK, abdominal and pelvic imaging.
When a new system may make sense
You need the very latest research or advanced applications.
Your business model depends on a manufacturer-backed service agreement for many years.
You need specific features only available on current platforms.
Choosing a field strength
1.5T closed-bore systems remain the standard for most clinical work. 3T systems offer higher resolution for neuro, cardiac and research applications. Wide-bore (70 cm) systems improve comfort for bariatric and anxious patients, while open MRI suits patients who cannot tolerate a closed bore.
What to check before buying a refurbished MRI
Service history – ask for documented maintenance records.
Magnet condition – helium level, cold head and compressor history, and whether the magnet will be shipped at field or ramped down.
Coils – confirm which coils are included and that each has been tested.
Software version and licences – check that the clinical options you need are installed and transferable.
Image quality tests – ask for phantom test results and sample clinical images.
Warranty – what it covers, how long it lasts and who provides it.
Installation scope – RF cage, magnetic shielding, quench pipe, cooling, and who manages each element.
Installation and timelines
An MRI project typically takes 16 to 26 weeks from order to clinical go-live, depending on shipping, building works and equipment availability. It involves RF cage installation, magnetic shielding where needed, a quench pipe, specialist flooring and doors, helium fill and ramping, and acceptance testing. UK sites should follow the MHRA's safety guidelines for MRI equipment in clinical use.
Our recommendation
For most private clinics and diagnostic centres, a professionally refurbished 1.5T system offers the best balance of cost and clinical capability. Whichever route you choose, work with a supplier who manages the whole project and supports you after handover.
Rising Medical Technologies supplies refurbished MRI scanners from Siemens, GE, Philips and Canon with full turnkey installation. Visit our MRI scanner page or request a free site assessment.
