Porous anodic films containing molybdenum disulfide precursors were developed for self-lubricating purposes on aluminum by an initial anodizing and a subsequent re-anodizing process. The self-lubricating films were then examined with respect to the morphology, microstructure, and composition of the anodic film material and the lubricant, using X-ray diffraction, electron microscopy, energy dispersive X-ray analysis and X-ray photo-electron spectroscopy. The dry sliding wear of aluminum supporting such self-lubricating films was significantly reduced, as a result of greatly reduced coefficients of friction. The enhanced lubricity, due to the MoS2precursors contained within the porous anodic film, leads to wear mode changes from severe abrasive and adhesive wear for uncoated aluminum, to a mild film fatigue wear, for aluminum supporting the self-lubricating anodic films. The wear mechanism change is suggested by the wear and friction curves, as well as confirmed by wear track morphology.