Please keep in mind this is an 87 we're talking about here. Central
locking isn't tied into the ignition circuit at all in these older
models (not sure it is in the newer models either). My car (an 89
325i) will start reguardless of the locked condition of the doors. My
guess will be a fuse has gone out somewhere in the system. I'll find
my fuse table later and repost as to which one(s) I think it could be.

I do not know what you need to bypass the system.

But, if you locked the doors -- central locking system -- then managed to
get a door open, the central locking system still has control of the
ignition system, and it will prevent the car from starting. It this point,
the car thinks it is in the midst of being stolen, and it is protecting
itself.

I accidently locked the driver's side door and initiated the Central Locking
System.  Well, it took me a while to unlock the driver's side door again.
The passenger side is still locked and now the car won't start.  Question:
When the Central Locking System is engaged, will that shut down the entire
system, including starting the car?  I have at least the driver's side open,
but am surprised that the car won't start.  Secondly, what do I need to do to
disengage the whole system ... this is pain? Thanks for any response in
advance ... BMWFKK