My solution for dealing with a buggy ARC connection was to eliminate ARC by running a toslink digital optical cable from my display to the receiver. I rarely use the "smart" features on the display anyway (only if I need to cast something from my phone), so this was an easy solution. I have CEC...
I will second @JohnRice 's suggestion on just getting a universal remote. A Harmony remote can be purchased for around $50 that is easy to program, simple for even the most technically-challenged people in the household to operate, and will get rid of every single OEM remote on your coffee...