A process for surface modification of Al6061-T6 has been carried out in molten salts containing Ce such as a NaCl-SnCl2-CeCl3 melt at 200 degrees C. Samples treated in molten salts for 2 h were subsequently exposed to a NaCl solution for 30 days to evaluate resistance against pitting corrosion. The coating mechanism in molten salts and the pitting corrosion behavior of the coated material have been studied by electrochemical impedance spectroscopy. The results show that this coating technique enhances the pitting corrosion resistance of aluminum alloys in contact with sea water.