Purpose The purpose of this paper is to investigate the tribological properties of carbonized polydopamine/reduced graphene oxide (CPDA/rGO) composite coatings. Design/methodology/approach CPDA/rGO composite coatings were prepared using the spray technique and subsequent pyrolysis under argon. The transmission electron microscopy, field-emission scanning electron microscopy, X-ray diffraction, X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy and Raman spectroscopy revealed the conversion of PDA and GO into CPDA and rGO, respectively. Findings The results of tribological investigations show that the CPDA/rGO composite coatings with heat treatment at 300 degrees C possess much better friction-reduction and anti-wear properties. Originality/value The worn surfaces of the PDA/GO composite films after heat treatment at 300 degrees C were much smoother than that of the copper substrate. The tribofilms containing C, N, O and Cu played an important role on reducing friction and increasing wear resistance.