An adjustable datum pin assembly for temporarily affixing a bumper cover, fender, side panel, roof spoiler, or the like (i.e., a vehicle component) to an associated vehicle structure, the adjustable datum pin assembly including: a fixed lower portion adapted to be coupled to the associated vehicle structure; a translatable upper portion translatably coupled to the fixed lower portion, wherein the translatable upper portion includes an attachment structure adapted to be coupled to the bumper cover, fender, side panel, roof spoiler, or the like; and a friction mechanism disposed between the translatable upper portion and the fixed lower portion adapted to resist translation of the translatable upper portion with respect to the fixed lower portion.