Q&A for How to Repair a Remote Control

Check the batteries. Make sure they are up correctly. Make sure that they have a good position and that you don't see any corrosion or little white powder. Take something small like a screwdriver and clean around because the batteries in the remote might be loose, that's why sometimes you see people spinning them. If that doesn't work, take another remote and test if it works.

I think they meant "contact adhesive". Also, apply the foil pieces to the contact points on back of the rubber (silicone) buttons (usually flat black dots), NOT on the circuit board as was illustrated. Doing as is illustrated will definitely ruin the remote.

There should be a panel on the back of the remote that opens. You can then remove the old batteries and replace them.

Start by changing the batteries in your remote. If that doesn't solve the problem, there may be damaged to the volume keys or circuitry, so I would recommend purchasing a new remote.

Try filling a mason jar that's big enough for the remote with white rice and stick the remote in it overnight or twenty-four hours or until dry. if this doesn't work just buy a new remote.

I would probably look up what contact I am missing, then go to the store and buy it, and then try to repair it myself.

I have used soap and water to clean the rubber parts in the remote, and a pencil eraser to clean the metal contacts. I have done this with several remotes with long lasting success. Be sure to let the parts dry out throughly.

Check the owner's manual to see if it's in there. If it isn't, try searching online according to the manufacturer and model you have. Generally, remotes are all pretty simple and wired similarly, so you can figure it out as you go along, if necessary.

Make sure it's compatible with your device first. If it's new, it might be defective. Contact the store and manufacturer for recommendations. If it's old, cleaning it and using conductive paint may help.

Try using a soldering iron to solder it back together. You may need to deal with a lot of small connectors, so it can be a frustrating experience. Use copper solder, for instance, to fill in cracked copper connectors.

Search online places like Google, Amazon, Ebay, etc. Google often shows sellers in different States-- check those sellers' websites because they often carry older, or out of stock, items.

Take it apart and try again. Otherwise, your best bet is to go to eBay with your remote's make and model. They're cheap and are usually there. If not, then buy a universal remote.