how to correct reflection

[gdbear65]

I have this great shot of an old Corvette but the background was too busy and distracting so I've decided to replace it using PS CS4. the only problem is there's a reflection on the hood that I'm not sure how to correct. I've included a low res jpg of the unfinished shot - please tell me what you think

[edbayani]

it looks great. you can use the pen tool to trace the shape of the sections of the hood and make it into a selection. press Q to enter quick mask and with the blur tool you can brush the edges to soften it. exit quick mask and wit the eyedropper tool copy the color of the darkest and and lightest portions of the hood. make a new layer and with the gradient tool, apply the gradient. you can adjust with levels, and the burn and dodge tool to add highlights and/or shadows. flatten.
attached, what i did and hope this helps.

[gdbear65]

that looks great - thanks a lot!!

[RecurrentNerve]

Edbayani's technique is good - the one thing I would suggest is to use Refine Edge > Feather, rather than brushing in Quick Mask, to soften the edges of the selection. It's quicker, easier and gives a more uniform blend.