In this paper, the friction and wear behavior of a carbon composite is studied. Friction tests were performed under constant friction mode. The power inputs were increased gradually to study their effects on friction transition at ambient air environment. Friction surfaces were examined using various macro and nanoscopic techniques to understand the evolution of friction transition. Structural changes of friction film have been observed from graphitic allotropic form to amorphous type structure. This sudden change leads to an increase of the coefficient of friction. It seems that the inter-laminar shearing, disruption of the film and sample cracking might cause the friction transition. Analysis from stress field simulation shows that cracks were more likely to occur at the trailing edge of the sample at the end of transition. This study shows that any type of failure (mechanical or thermal fatigue) of the friction film or bulk material is sufficient to generate friction and wear instabilities.