The work aims to explore recent advancements in the mechanical properties of carbon fiber composites for thermal structural applications, with the objective of promoting the development and utilization of carbon fiber composites. Through a comprehensive literature review, the current research status on the mechanical properties of carbon fiber composites was summarized, and the factors affecting the static and dynamic mechanical properties of 2D composites, needled composites, and 3D woven composites were analyzed. The results indicate that factors affecting the static and dynamic mechanical properties of carbon fiber composites include temperature, strain rate, density, et al. And further investigations are necessary in multi-factor coupling and high temperature dynamic properties of carbon fiber composites.