are they painted or chrome

 

Wankleman--thanks for this thread. You've really brought out some basic questions from newbies to the whole detailing deal. You're well-suited to answering these in a way that makes sense to 8 owners. But if your readers want more info, they should know that there is a wealth of it out there on the web.
http://autopia.org/ is a fine place to start. They offer a complete detailing manual (downloadable).

 

Stock, painted.

 

yeah sorry i haven't been able to answer some of the questions more lately, currently out of town at a friend's bachelor party/ wedding so won't be back home for a couple of days, using a friend's computer.