Because of growing demands regarding quality and life-time of state-of-the-art engineering systems, tribological research is an essential part of the industrial development process. Besides failure analysis the increase of product oriented knowledge becomes increasingly important. Therefore, the Robert Bosch GmbH has been applying modern analysis tools like the focused ion beam system for several years. This tool permits the detection of smallest variations in microstructure and the documentation of the development of wear processes. In the field of fuel injection new stringent emission legislation requires direct injection systems capable of producing ever increasing high injection pressures. Since a vast majority of these systems relies on fuel lubricity, the ability to meet the demands for life-time and performance depends on sufficient lubricating properties of diesel and gasoline fuel. To ensure these properties a permanent extension of know-how and testing methods is inevitable. For products without presence of lubricating media due to functional requirements, an additional incorporation of liquid or consistent lubricants is often inevitable. Therefore the Robert Bosch GmbH intensively supports the development of special high-performance lubricants.