YSZ based composite coatings, containing Ag or Sb 2O 3 or Ag/Sb 2O 3, are fabricated using atmospheric plasma spraying technology. The phase composition, microstructure and mechanical properties are characterized. The influence of Ag, Sb 2O 3 and Ag/Sb 2O 3 on the tribological behavior of the YSZ based composite coatings sliding against Al 2O 3 ball was investigated from 25 to 800 oC. The results show that the introduced Ag in YSZ/Ag coating provides effective lubrication below 500 oC, while the presence of Sb 2O 3 deteriorates the wear behavior due to its volatilization and the deteriorative mechanical strength of YSZ/Sb 2O 3 coating. The YSZ/Ag/Sb 2O 3 coating with dual addition of Ag and Sb 2O 3 exhibits excellent friction and wear behavior in a broad temperature range. Such an improvement in tribological performance is attributed to the abundant supply of Ag covering on the worn surface. It is demonstrated that the diffusion channel of Ag increases due to the volatilization of Sb 2O 3 at high temperatures and the high porosity of the YSZ/Ag/Sb 2O 3 coating, which continuously provides lubricant Ag for the contact interface. The tribo-induced layer, composed of Ag, residual Sb 2O 3 and ZrO 2 wear debris, play a significant role in providing effective lubrication at elevated temperature.