why was this photo rejected

Looking at the histogram, you will see that the picture is missing blacks, which leads to this flat look that got pointed out by @Ricky336 and @George_F. Contrary to George, I think that the file is missing sharpness. And either it's the rust or there is a high noise level. I wonder if the initial processing included a lift of the exposure.

The car itself will barely trigger an IP violation because there are no logos in view and to me, the car does not show typical brand signatures.

The composition is good, and to answer @George_F's question: I had no doubt that the car was the catching element in the view. I think it's a nice picture, but I doubt that it will finally pass because of the lack of sharpness and the noise level. But you can try to tweak some parameters (like the flatness, white balance) and resubmit. If it fails again, you need to address the sharpness, which will be difficult, however.

The top middle portion of the sky appears to have blown highlights. I would reduce the highlights and lift the shadows, as well as warming up the white balance a bit.

Hi @Rebel Yell Photography ,

I like your composition, but it is underexpose and there are blue color fringing in the highlights.

Best wishes

JG

Photographer and Nutrition Author

I believe this to be a lighting, contrast, and composition issue.  The photo looks a bit flat to me, I'm not finding anything that is catching my eye here lighting or contrast wise.  I'm also wondering what the main subject of the photo is?  The overturned car, the puddles of water, and the trees all seem to have equal emphasis put on them.  The photo also seems to have the slightest blue color cast to it, but I don't suspect that was the reason.

The photo seemed acceptably sharp, and no excessive noise or chromatic aberrations that I spotted with a quick glance through.  I wonder if the car was centered and closer, or the puddle was centered and closer, if this would have made it through.

I also wonder if the car would cause an IP violation?

That's all from a fine art landscape perspective, I hope this helps!