As I've said before, sorry to see you going through so much trouble when they should just fix the car. Maybe your friend can get the whole thing brought up on tv and the dealer and manufacturer will make it right. Maybe the THOUGHT of it being on tv will make the sit up and take notice... if your friend started asking questions of them, they might get nervous.
What kind of car are you leasing after this one? I'm betting I know what kind you're inclined to avoid.