No it is not normal. Return/exchange it. Better yet get money back and buy a Presto instead. The quality of Mirro canners has really declined drastically over the past several years since the company was sold.

Dave

I agree absolutely with Dave's comments. That is NOT normal and may be a sign of other serious issues to come. Good thing you can return it. And do take a look at the Presto. Unlike Mirro the company remains under the same ownership, and manufacture and parts availability so far are very consistent.

Carol

Here's one more nay vote on the new Mirro. And I apologize to whoever picked it out for you, gifted it to you. The vintage are gems, I use mine all the time. You couldn't convince me to buy a new one over Presto though, the old vs. new - no comparison.