Spindle rotation error affects the machining accuracy of turning workpieces. Through analyses and studies of the spindle rotation error, a 2-D surface topography detection method was proposed for turning workpieces based on the rotation error, and the turning process model was established. The MATLAB simulation results showed that the spindle radial rotation error affects the turning radius and surface topography of the workpiece, resulting in the coaxiality error, roundness error and surface roughness. To verify the effectiveness of the proposed method, the 2-D surface topography detection platform for data collection was built, and the rotation error value of the spindle in the depth direction and average radius error of turning workpieces were obtained. The experimental results showed that the experiment and simulation results are consistent in characteristics, which verify the feasibility of the method and have reference value for the performance debugging of the machine tool and improving the processing quality of the workpieces.