Can't add much more to the above as the so called "mechanic" doesn't know his arse from his elbow when it comes to CVTs.
Belt life, 40k + but depends on,
a) the condition of the chrome pulleys (sand any rusty scabs flat as it'll chew the sides of the belts double-quick)
b) how the car is driven.
A properly maintained CVT will run fine for years. If the auto-clutch is checked (and re-shimmed if necessary) at the correct intervals, that should have a life of over 100k. The auto clutch life will be reduced if the gap becomes too wide, the car is revved in Park or the car is held on the clutch from rolling back on hills/inclines instead of using the handbrake.
In the rare instances the primary or secondary CVT unit does give up, then finding a replacement shouldn't be too difficult
A "modern style" autobox whether it is an epicyclic, CVT or DSG (effectively a manual gearbox with an autoshift) type will come with it's own set of problems when it goes wrong and none will be cheap. Another thing when converting anything is declaring the mods to the insurer and the best way to get cheap insurance is with a factory standard car.
