In 2026, the global construction machinery aftermarket is undergoing a profound transformation. From John Deere in the United States being sued again over right-to-repair issues, to Komatsu establishing a new parts center in Arizona, to the launch of bonded maintenance services for shield tunneling machines (TBMs) in Tianjin, China — a series of events signal that parts supply and repair autonomy are becoming new industry focal points.

I. The Right-to-Repair Battle Heats Up

In June 2026, John Deere in the United States faced a new lawsuit over restricting users from self-repairing construction and forestry equipment. This is not the first time Deere has been in the defendant's seat — in recent years, the "Right to Repair" movement in the agricultural and construction machinery sectors has continued to gain momentum.

The core issue of the lawsuits is: Do equipment manufacturers have the right to prevent users or third-party repair shops from performing repairs through software locks, proprietary diagnostic tools, and parts restrictions?

Proponents of right-to-repair argue that equipment owners have the right to freely choose how to repair their equipment, and that manufacturers' restrictions are essentially monopolistic practices. Manufacturers, on the other hand, contend that authorized repair networks ensure equipment safety and performance.

The outcome of this battle will profoundly shape the direction of the global construction machinery aftermarket. Colorado passed new right-to-repair legislation in 2025, granting consumers greater repair autonomy. More states and countries are expected to follow suit with similar legislation.

II. Parts Supply Networks Accelerate Expansion

Facing pressure from right-to-repair legislation and growing market demand, major manufacturers are accelerating the expansion of parts distribution networks. Komatsu announced the construction of a new parts center in Arizona, further improving its North American parts supply system.

Meanwhile, Volvo Construction Equipment (Volvo CE) also opened a new parts distribution center in Tacoma, Washington. These investments demonstrate that the parts business has become an important engine for manufacturers' profit growth.

In the Chinese market, bonded maintenance services for shield tunneling machines (TBMs) officially launched in Tianjin in June 2026. This business model allows imported TBMs to undergo maintenance and repair while in bonded status, which not only reduces maintenance costs but also opens the door for domestic maintenance service providers to participate in the repair of international high-end equipment.

III. OEM Cross-Reference Data Is Changing the Repair Ecosystem

Another important trend in the parts market is the application of OEM cross-reference data. Companies like Fab Heavy Parts use cross-reference data for OEM parts to help fleets implement a "repair rather than replace" strategy.

This means that repair shops can compare parts specifications across different brands to find compatible alternatives, thereby significantly reducing repair costs. This trend is particularly beneficial for fleets using multi-brand equipment.

SANY also launched new parts and service programs at the 2026 ConExpo show, demonstrating the ambitions of Chinese manufacturers in the aftermarket sector.

IV. Aftermarket Opportunities in the Chinese Market

China's construction machinery aftermarket also holds tremendous opportunities. As the domestic inventory of construction machinery exceeds 10 million units, the market scale for maintenance and repair, parts supply, and used equipment transactions continues to expand.

For equipment operators, choosing reliable parts suppliers and maintenance service providers is crucial. If you need to learn about parts supply and maintenance solutions for specific equipment, feel free to contact our professional team.

*This article was written by the EquipNode editorial team. Please indicate the source when reproducing.*