Civic HX 1.6L 4cyl VTEC-E

• CVT transmission
• 162,500 miles

I recently bought my 17 year-old son a 1997 Honda Civic HX. Two days after buying it, the engine light came on and it started to lope and produce a spark knock. I took it to a local shop where it was confirmed that the EGR valve needed to be replaced. After paying $766 for repairs (to include replacing the EGR valve, cam and crank seals and two motor mounts) I had to immediately return it because I noticed the same symptoms when I started my drive home. The next day I paid another $585 for repairs (to include replacing the IAC valve, resetting the timing, resurfacing rotors and replacing brake pads) only to return it again for the same symptoms. It was then that I was quoted $2675 because they said it needed a new transmission. I declined. A few days later, I took it to a certified Honda service center. I paid $$522 for repairs (to include resetting the timing belt correctly, replacing the spark plugs, adjusting the valves, replacing a broken valve cover bolt and replacing a missing lug nut) and was assured that the car was now running perfectly and that there was nothing wrong with the transmission. My son drove it from the shop and said the spark knock was completely gone. However, when he shifted into reverse later (it was backed in at the shop so he didn't have to shift into reverse upon leaving), it loped and idled high. I called the Honda dealership the next day to ask if it was normal for the CVT to do this and was told that it probably was (he didn't know much about the CVT himself) and that the mechanic who worked on it would have made a notation if there was a problem. Needless to say, after paying $1873, I am frustrated. Is there anyone out there familiar with the VTEC-E and CVT who can offer some information? PLEASE?! My husband would more than likely be able to fix this but he is away in Iraq for at least 15 months. HELLLPP!!!