I started to paint the front bumper center/lower insert today, and discovered that it is actually a separate part, not just a (black) painted section of the front bumper. Is that black insert removeable, or should I just mask everything off, and paint it in place? I sure would like to remove it and paint it in the house, if possible.

 

Yes it is but I believe you have to remove the bumper to remove it.

 

If you live in a state that requires a front license plate, then the bracket that holds your plate is riveted to your bumper through that black piece.

 

Ask to a body shop or dealer to avoid breaking it,it's wiser to ask it for it instead of repair it

 

Ed, the insert is removable as Mike had indicated. You have to remove the front bumper to get at the insert. It is held on with some kind of clips.
Do a search on here for bumper removal, I think Mike from SoCalHHR's did a step-by step removal procedure for it.
I would recommend a good plastic/vinyl primer before painting. This is recommended by my paint supplier. And it does help with the bonding.
Good luck and let us know how you make out?

 

I'd check with a body shop that work's with a Chevy dealer. One by my house did Bonnie's and it was very reasonable. Sorry, don't remember how much but it was less than $100.

 

Why did they make them black anyway?

 

Black is the one colour that compliments all other colours. It's probably also cheaper to produce black plastic.

 

My 07 has the holes in the bumper cover itself and not the black plastic. I chose not to mount the license plate holder. The holes are small indentions in the bumper cover and not punched all the way through.