My main point against the idea is that they wouldn't need to hide the fact it was happening. If it were possible with current tech there would already be some AI subscription bullshit that listens and takes notes on everything you do all day.
Honestly most people I saw outside of the hardcore tech sphere were excited about apple intelligence until it became clear what a shit show it was. I don't see how it was supposed to be any less invasive than windows recall but it got a completely different reaction. You just need a good advertising/propoganda department and people will pay you for the privilege of being spied on.
Yeah I think they would have had to slow down or stop sales and make a big deal about reworking their production lines for better QC. Then come back a year or two later with actual improvements. I think Tesla probably have enough brand recognition that they can survive without Musk so hopefully they kick him out.
I think the US car industry as a whole is due for a major price adjustment, so I kind of see that as it's own issue. Car prices need to be cut at least in half to make them practical as utility items. We're being asked to drive vehicles that costs as much as a house did 30 years ago, and are approaching the same size, on the highway and leave them parked inches from each other.