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Aluminium matrix composites (AMCs) consist of a comparatively soft aluminium alloy and hard ceramic particles. Due to elevated properties, these materials are used for high-performance lightweight components. Their application in tribologically loaded brake systems requires a defined friction behaviour, which can be gained by appropriate geometrical surface properties as a prerequisite for a specific tribolayer formation. The aim of this research is to enhance the generation of nearly non-wearing tribolayers on AMC specimens reinforced with 35% volume proportion of silicon carbide particles. For that purpose, the influence of the corner radius and the feed on the surface properties is analysed in face turning using CVD diamond tipped indexable inserts. On the machined AMC specimens, tribolayers are generated in a conditioned pin-on-disc arrangement applying pins made of automotive brake lining material. The focus lies on the tribolayer build-up phase as the stage in which the protective tribolayer begins to form. Surface analyses show that a high kinematic roughness resulting from facing leads to a more intensive build-up of the tribolayers, which is further promoted by voids in the AMC surface. This study provides a first overview of the facing conditions that can be applied to support the subsequent formation of the tribological layer. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]