In this study, Ti-Al-C-N quaternary coatings were deposited on DC53 tool steel by using a filtered cathodic arc deposition (FCAD) system. The coating morphology and characteristics, such as surface roughness, compositions, and adhesion, were analyzed to evaluate the magnetic filter effects on the corrosion behavior of the coatings. The results showed that the Ti-Al-C-N coatings, with or without filtering treatment have been smoothly deposited on the substrate. Concerning the coating characteristics although the deposition, rate of FCAD-TiAlCN was slower than that of the unfiltered one, the former had a relatively denser structure, smoother surface and exhibited better adhesion. In addition, both coatings improved the corrosion resistance of DC53 steel in 3.5 wt.% NaCl solution. Particularly, FCAD-TiAlCN offered more effective corrosion protection than unfiltered TiAlCN. (C) 2009 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.