Volkswagen of America Inc. on Wednesday announced a collision repair facility certification program for U.S. dealer-affiliated and independent body shops.

The program provides certification for collision repair facilities performing fixes in accordance with the automaker's safety standards.

"This program benefits Volkswagen owners by providing the peace of mind that comes from knowing that when a vehicle is involved in a collision, VW-certified collision repair facilities will maintain the brand's safety standards and specifications," said Matthew McCauley, collision program manager for VW of America.