Transfer films on corundum balls from sulfur deficient molybdenum disulfide (MoSx) coatings with different crystallographic orientations were investigated after fretting tests performed in ambient air of different humidity levels. The morphology of wear tracks on MoS, coatings and of transfer films on corundum balls were investigated by light optical microscopy with Normarski contrast. The thickness of transfer films was measured by scanning white light and optical phase-shifting interferometry, and their composition was analyzed by X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy. The effect of relative humidity in fretting tests on the composition of the transfer films as well as the effect of the transfer film on the tribological performance of MoSx coatings in fretting wear tests is discussed. (C) 2003 Elsevier B.V All rights reserved.