An equivalent circuit (EC) that reproduces the a.c. impedance of porous aluminium oxide films in a highly approximate manner is proposed. The results reveal that electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS) is a powerful tool for obtaining detailed information on the electrochemical properties of both the porous and barrier layer on which the corrosion resistance of aluminium depends. The impedance at a given frequency can be used for accurate calculation of the electrochemical parameter for the oxide film represented by each element of the EC. In this way, the effects of any factor on sealing and ageing of anodized aluminium oxide films can be precisely analysed. The EIS technique provides an effective, advantageous alternative to existing seal quality control tests.