R11 Oil pressure light comes on at idle and only when engine is warm
Hi, I have a 1989 Renault 11 1.4 (Cleon Fonte B 373) 210.000km. Due to various reasons, including moving to a place where I don't have free space, I had to leave it parked in my old house for a few months. However, I don't let more than 3 or 4 days go by without starting it and driving it for a bit.
I noticed that the oil pressure light started coming on when the engine reaches operating temperature. It doesn't come on when it's cold, and it only comes on at idle, as you can see in the video.
I checked the valve cover and I can see oil on top, and I can also see oil splashing towards my hand.
Also, I'm aware that it's an old engine... I notice a bit of smoke coming from the oil cap, and a bit from the exhaust too. It seems that this could be due to worn piston rings. I reckon it will need to be opened up and the engine rebuilt soon, however:
Things I noticed (I'm leaving them here in case they're relevant):
- There are several oil leaks from parts of the engine, through the valve cover gasket, from the crankshaft seal, and when it's running, you can see tiny bubbles where oil is leaking from the base where the distributor sits. It's barely noticeable, but you can see it.
- The negative battery terminal sulfated completely in a short time (I don't know why).
- time ago, i saw this oil light come on, so I took the opportunity to change the oil. Before, I always used Rimula 40, now I used Shell Helix HX5 15W40, with an original Renault filter. But despite the change, the light is still on.
What could it be? Can someone guide me on how to find the problem or what things I should try? Thanks in advance.
https://reddit.com/link/1ujcw0u/video/emdywra02cah1/player
https://reddit.com/link/1ujcw0u/video/m6u847c02cah1/player
Posted Jun 30, 2026, 2:43 AM UTC