What is the normal behavior for Renault 5 engine temperature light?

Answer 1

When engine temperature climbs near to 100C this light turns on. But this is a late response to alert you that your engine can burn. I suggest you install a numeric thermometer. It's worth knowing the light is wired to the oil pressure light via a diode (like an electrical one-way valve) This is so the bulb lights with the ignition on but the engine stopped- Renault's cheap yet reliable way of letting you know the bulb's not blown. (otherwise it would only ever illuminate upon overheating!) The product of this, to the observant, is the lights work simultaneously on normal starting and stopping, giving the (wrong) impression something's amiss.

Answer 2

The engine temperature light in a Renault 5 should come on briefly when starting the car, but it should turn off once the engine reaches operating temperature. If the light stays on or comes on while driving, it may indicate an issue with the cooling system or engine temperature that should be addressed promptly to prevent overheating.