<p>MoS₂ is a very popular solid lubricant that has significant applications in the field of aerospace and automobiles. Due to its affinity towards oxygen and moisture, it has been modified through different mechanisms, such as doping and co-doping. This review comprehensively analyzes advanced materials used to alter MoS₂, highlighting their impact on wear resistance, mechanical durability, and environmental stability. Additionally, we discuss the latest fabrication and synthesis techniques tailored for tribological applications, emphasizing their role in improving coating performance. By elucidating the mechanisms through which dopants contribute to multifunctional MoS₂ coatings, this review offers valuable insights into their potential for next-generation lubrication technologies. The findings presented here serve as a foundation for future research to optimize MoS₂-based coatings for extreme environments and multifunctional applications. </p> Graphical Abstract <p></p>