Automobile manufacturers negotiate lemon law claims routinely, sometimes in good faith, sometimes not. When the denial or offer is unreasonable, you have powerful legal tools available.
Common Manufacturer Tactics
Manufacturers typically try to: deny that the number of repairs is sufficient (arguing some were for "different problems"), calculate the mileage offset in the most favorable way for them, offer a replacement with lesser equipment, offer only used market value instead of purchase price, or delay the process hoping the consumer gives up.
Manufacturer Arbitration
Some manufacturers have arbitration programs. You can participate, but you're not obligated to accept the result, you can reject the arbitration award and go to court if it's unsatisfactory. An attorney can evaluate whether arbitration is a favorable option for your case before participating.
Civil Lawsuit: Your Most Powerful Weapon
If there's no agreement, you can file a civil lawsuit in California superior court. Most manufacturers prefer to settle before trial because litigation costs, the risk of bad faith punitive damages, and the requirement to pay attorney fees make litigation very costly for them. An experienced lemon law attorney can file the lawsuit and typically obtain a favorable settlement within 3-9 months.