An apparatus and method, according to an exemplary aspect includes, among other things, a bracket system having a first portion fixed to a vehicle panel and a second portion that is moveable relative to the first portion for adjustment purposes. At least one first fastener holds the first and second portions together prior to assembly of the vehicle panel to a pillar. The at least one first fastener is loosened to adjust a position of the second portion relative to the pillar. At least one second fastener secures the second portion to the pillar subsequent to adjustment, and the at least one first fastener is tightened subsequent to adjustment to hold the vehicle panel in a desired position relative to the pillar.