The main aim of this study was to experimentally investigate and analyze the behavior of various process parameters like the ratio of concentration of CIPs and Al2O3 abrasives, the current supplied to the electromagnet, rotating speed of tool, feed rate of the workpiece, the working gap between rotating tool and the workpiece surface, and workpiece hardnesses of AISI D3 steel material on the response of surface roughness, Ra and difference between initial surface roughness and final surface roughness obtained using magnetorheological fluid based finishing process. Also possible reasons for trends have been proposed through extensive trials and examination. These initial values form the basis of selection of ranges for each parameter for the further process characterization and optimization for improving the finishing performance of the MR fluid assisted process. The experimentation was carried out on the vertical machining center (VMC) machine with customized setup