The paper presents results of testing the resistance to motion of pistons whose bearing surface was coated with a layer of carbon nanotubes (CNTs). A part of this paper was devoted to the problems of applying a layer of nanotubes on the surface of an aluminum alloy, which is the most common material used for pistons. Obtaining a layer of nanotubes of a very narrow margin of tolerance was a difficult technological problem to overcome. A standard process of growing a layer of nanotubes leads to corrosion damage of the side surface of pistons; therefore, new technologies were developed which allow for obtaining a permanent layer of nanotubes less than 5 microns thick. Pistons with the bearing surface coated with a layer of nanotubes were mounted to the engine, and then measurements of the moment of momentary resistance to motion were performed. Also capturing phases of the engine work cycles in which the layer of nanotubes gives the best results seems to be possible. At present, long-term research is being carried out in order to determine the degree of the risk of exfoliation of the layer of CNT under the conditions of high mechanical and thermal loads.