Abstract: The micro-arc oxidation layer was prepared on the surface of ZL101A aluminum alloy. The microstructures, phase composition, microhardness and friction and wear properties of the ceramic layer were studied by using the scanning electron microscope, X-ray diffractometer, microhardness tester, high-temperature friction and wear testing machine, etc, the results show that the micro-arc oxidation ceramic layer with the thickness of about 60 μm was composed of α-Al2O3 and γ-Al2O3 phases. The surface layer was loose and inner layer was dense. The average microhardness of the ceramic was 1 740.9 HV, which was much higher than 150.2 HV of ZL101A aluminum alloy. The friction coefficient and wear mass loss were both lower than those of ZL101A aluminum alloy. The abrasive wear was the main friction and wear mechanism.