Door Handle Covers VS. Paint

I have a 2004 SSV XLT with black outside door handles on Oxford White body. Would it be better to paint them white or install after market stainless covers? How would either hold up over time? If paint, would auto primer and paint work? Or epoxy paint? Thanks.

I put on the chrome covers, if you don't like them then take them off not much labor, and way faster than repainting and cost way less, that is if you do the paint right. just wish I could could get chrome bumper covers

Has anyone else used the handle covers? Good or bad?

In my experience DIY rattle can paint jobs usually end up looking just that. I like chrome myself, but the handle and assembly covers in chrome, IMO, will be a bit too much. And over time I'd expect to lose one or two.

I'd consider taking a slightly different approach. Search ebay or junkyards for used handles, Expedition and Navigator. I dont believe functionally anything has changed 03-17. You'll find most 03-06 have a color matched surround and matching handle whereas 07+ are mostly color matched surround with a chrome handle. Oxford white is probably the most common Expedition color, just be sure you don't end up with tri-coat or pearlescent. Buying 4 used will surely be less than having your existing ones repainted by a pro.

Never had them laid out in front of me, but I am skeptical there isn't but 2 different designs - drivers door with its lock assembly making it unique, then the other 3 doors being the same. Might be a 180° tweak of the rod connector on the backside to make a left vs. right and vice versa.

Thank you. I may make a tour of the Philly yards. I also might try to find those covers in brushed stainless steel. The bright chrome plastic covers are a bit too much.

Man I would kill for black door handles. I can't stand the chrome on my 2010 XLT!

My 08 Expedition is black, and it has me wanting to go with black grill and the black bucket headlights. I thought it was odd Ford put chrome handles on my trim level. Didn’t realize all this year got them. Wonder if I could get the handle covers and spray them body color. If it looks crappy later I can take them off.
I want to paint the Eddie Bauer color to the newer Java or what ever Ford calls that milk chocolate looking color. Mine isn’t an Eddie Bauer and Java looks good with the King Ranch interior.

Just purchased and installed chrome (ABS) door handle covers and fog light trim on 2020 XLT. Ordering ProStripe metallic silver pinstriping for an easy DIY project.