Cerium-based conversion coatings were formed on AZ91D magnesium alloy by immersion of the substrate in solutions containing Ce(NO3)3, H2O2 and ascorbic acid (HAsc). The characterisation of the films was performed by electrochemical and surface analysis techniques such as SEM, EDS, X-ray diffraction and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS). The degree of corrosion protection achieved was evaluated in simulated physiological solution by the open circuit potential monitoring, polarisation techniques and electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS).The presence of HAsc in the conversion solution causes changes in the morphology, adherence and anticorrosive performance of the films. The improvement in the corrosion resistance is closely associated with the corrosion inhibition properties of HAsc