Objective To explore the influencing law of transaction layer deposition time and structure on the bonding strength of the GLC films. Methods Different GLC (Graphite-Like Carbon) films were synthesized by the micro-arc ion plating technology with varied gradient layer deposition time. The microstructure of the coating was characterized by scanning electron microscopy (SEM). The scanning of cross-sectional energy spectrum was used to analyze the variation of gradient layer structure. The bonding strength between the film and the substrate was determined by the scratch and indentation methods. The micro-hardness of the film was tested using Vickers hardness tester, and the friction coefficient of the films was measured by pin-on-disc friction and wear tester. Results When the deposition time of transition layer was 20 min, the bond strength reached 46 N. With the increasing transition layer deposition time, the bond strength of the films first increased and then decreased. The content of chromium increased with the increasing transition layer deposition time, while the hardness of GLC films decreased with the slowing down of gradient layer structure. The friction coefficient and the lifetime of the films decreased with the increasing transaction layer deposition time. Conclusion Reasonable transition deposition period was helpful to improve the bonding strength of the GLC coating. The friction and wear life of the coating first increased and then decreased with the increasing transaction layer deposition time. High bonding strength was helpful to increase the adhesive life between the film and substrate.