Objective To improve the corrosion properties and wear resistance of magnesium alloy surface. Methods Cu/ W composite coatings were prepared successfully on magnesium alloy surface by cold spray and chemical vapor deposition (CVD). The microstructure, chemical components, morphology, wear resistance, corrosion properties of composite coatings and the binding force of composite coatings were studied. Results The surface hardness of Cu/ W composite coatings increased by 687. 1 HV compared to magnesium alloy matrix, the wear rate fell to 0. 020% from 0. 032% , the corrosion potential increased by 1. 3 V and the critical load of composite coatings improved by 120. 5 N compared to W layer directly prepared by CVD. Conclusion Preparation of Cu/ W composite coatings significantly increased wear resistance, corrosion properties and greatly improved the coating adhesion.