One problem related to transmission not go into gear has been reported for the 1997 Honda Civic. The most recently reported issues are listed below.
Transmission problem detected and confirmed by gresham Honda. Seems to be a major problem for 1997 Honda Civic owners. Honda acknowleged premature tranny failure and offered to pay half for replacement. Car was given back to me while part is being ordered and while driving today from a stop light on a hill car would not go into gear and started to slip backwards. Luckily by flooring it I was able to prevent backwards slide into vehilce behind me but feel someone needs to contact Honda and start a recall on this model for a complete transmission replacement. In my case they have agreed to cover half of the repair cost to install a remanufactured transmission but I am not satisfied with this offer and feel you could be looking at many more accidents and possible injuries by the sudden jerking from stop while car tries to go into gear. Please research this immediately and prevent thousands of people from being injured by this known defect that is not being addressed correctly.