It doesn't sound normal to me. Assume the simplest things first, and go from there. I would first check the condition and level of the trans fluid. '96 may be the year that they stopped putting dipsticks in to check the trans. In which case there is still a small filler cap down on the top of the trans, usually red in color. If you can see or even get a sample of it on something, check its color, should be reddish, not brown like oil. And it shouldn't smell, if it smells burnt, it's time for a change. Also, there is great debate amongst people on this issue, so I will say that it is my opinion that the fluid be changed about every
50,000 miles or so. That's what I've practiced, and thus far, I've never had a trans problem in any car I've owned.Tony