In this study, surface composite based on 5083Al matrix reinforced with nano-sized silicon carbide particles has been fabricated by Friction stir processing (FSP). Microstructure, hardness and wear behavior of the surface composite have been investigated and compared with those of 5083Al alloy. It is observed that the friction stir processed (FSPed) sample possess higher hardness, especially in the nugget zone, as compared to 5083Al. The tribological studies showed that wear resistance of the surface composite is observed to be significantly inferior to that observed for 5083Al, as a result of high coefficient of friction and higher friction force developed during the course of sliding wear. This leads to detachment of hard SiC particles from the surface of FSPed sample. Microstructural analyses of worn track and wear debris reveal that the primary wear mode in FSPed is abrasive whereas in 5083Al both abrasive and adhesive wear modes are operative.