The good thing about these remotes, they can be opened up easily. Not like most remotes that you'd have to pry apart with a crowbar.
The 976 uses the same remote design.
3 screws for the back cover, 8 screws on each side to pull apart the circuit board and expose the rubber button pad pieces (same small philips for all)---these button pads are what needs to be addressed!
Use some rubbing alcohol with Q-tip and wipe the specific button pads for the functions that you're having issues with. Usually the most used functions- power on/off, volume up/down and so.
Let the pads dry before reassembly; check for functionality. It is the oil from your fingers that seeps into the function contact pads. (yes, it happens to all of us) This is what you're cleaning off, to restore functionaliity.
Whatever you do, Do Not open up the battery compartment door while the remote is pulled apart!!!
There is a small door-hinge rod that will quite easily slip out from its place and most assuredly be lost in the abyss.