The principle and advantages of micro-arc oxidation ( MAO) were briefly described. The influences of experimental parameter such as power supply mode, electrolyte composing, voltage, frequency, duty ratio, oxidation time and substrate material component, etc. on the ceramic coating performance and MAO process of the aluminum alloys were emphasized to be reviewed. The characteristics and its relation of the microstructure and performance of the coatings formed on aluminum alloys by MAO were also analyzed. In the last, the research orientations of the coatings formed on aluminum alloys by MAO in future were suggested based on the problems including the present study of the coatings formed on aluminum alloys by MAO.