Polyester cord yarns have been treated in an atmospheric-pressure nitrogen plasma reactor in order to enhance their adhesion to rubber. A thin layer or the plasma was generated in the close vicinity of the yam surface using various types or surface discharge. To assess the effect of the plasma treatment on fiber surface properties, the cord thread/rubber matrix adhesion values measured using the untreated and threads cord threads were compared. The static and dynamic adhesion of the cord thread to rubber was characterized by using the standard Henley test. The dynamic adhesion values for the reference and plasma treated fiber were $7,3{pm}1,2;N$ and $83,5{pm}3,5;N$. The surface properties were investigated by scanning electron microscopy, infrared spectroscopy and electron spin resonance spectroscopy. It is concluded that both polar group interactions and increased surface area of the fibers are responsible for the improved adhesive strength.