I don't believe the electronic sytem "forgot" per se, the locking mechanism just refused to function because it believes the key is still in the ignition. You are probably right to say it is a mechanical function of the ignition interlock. When you remove your key from the ignition, a plate goes down that function like an on/off switch. As the car gets old, this plate would occassionaly stay open. If it does, the system will not respond to the remote although the remote is sending the right signal code. I'm glad to be of some help.