Abstract: Much attention has been paid to metal matrix self-lubricating composite because of its excellent mechanical properties and self-lubricating properties.Firstly, the structure and properties of MAX phase and the application background and advantages of solid lubricant were introduced in this paper.The research progress of metal matrix self-lubricant composite at home and abroad was summarized.Furthermore, the lubricating mechanism of MAX metal matrix self-lubricating composite was discussed and the lubrication model was established.Finally, the development tendence of MAX metal matrix self-lubricating composite was pointed out.