Contact resistance variation which may be called sliding noise in carbon film variable resistors whose resistance elements consists of linear resistivity distribution were measured with several kinds of sliders and were analyzed to reduce the contact resistance variation. About the measuring method, the standard method of measuring contact resistance variation specified by the variable Resistance Components Institute was adupted. By analyzing the experimental results, it has been shown that the primary cause of contact resistance variation is due to current constriction and small discharge sparks in the resistance film in the area close to the slide contact. Moreover, it has been found that the sliding noise would be reduced by increasing the number of contact points, sliding speed, and pressure, and by using some kinds of insulation oil on the contacting surface. High contact resistance variation is likely to occur in the area of high resistance variation in a logrithmic resistance taper.