Abstract: High-precision and reliable guidance and positioning technology is crucial for the successful operation of full-face tunnel boring machines (TBMs). By reviewing the development history of guidance technologies, including the multi-prism method, laser target method, inertial navigation method, hydraulic cylinders parallel method, and computer vision method, this paper analyzes the applicability and existing challenges of each guidance technology in engineering applications from the perspectives of system principles and construction environments. The study identifies major causes of failures during use, including environmental interference, hardware malfunctions, operational errors, and equipment deformation. In practical engineering, appropriate guidance technology should be selected based on the specific application scenario of the TBM. Further research should focus on multi-source information fusion algorithms, deformation compensation, and trajectory planning to improve the accuracy and reliability of the guidance technology.