The thermal resistance of the pressure die cast magnesium alloy AZ91D is yet not investigated sufficiently. In order to assess the effect of a thermal exposure on the microstructural stability and the mechanical properties, the alloy AZ91D is subjected to a long-term annealing for 1 000 h at 80 ℃, 100 ℃, 120 ℃, 150 ℃, 180 ℃ and 200 ℃. After the annealing, the microstructural appearance of the material is investigated by light and scanning electron microscopy and compared with the as-cast condition. Furthermore, tensile tests, hardness measurements and fracture toughness tests are carried out and the measured values are discussed on the basis of the microstructural changes. The results reveal the distinct correlation between the microstructural changes, especially the precipitation of discontinuous and continuous β-particles (Mg17Al12), and the mechanical properties.