Internal battery problem with EZ iv mini

Hi guys here is the problem
I got my EZ 4 flash card mini a couple of days ago got everything running however every time I turn my GBA SP on I get this message

'WARNING battery dry or first in'

I can play my games and save but when I go to reload them the save isn't there I understand the internal battery has something to do with saving.
I have left the cart in the GBA whilst charging for 8 hrs still get the message.

Is there anyway to bypass the battery and save straight to my mini SD as pocketnes seems to save okay?

Is this normal does it need to charge longer?

I really don't want to open it up and check the battery connection as I can't solder anyway. I brought it from gameyeah who were okay but I really can't deal with the fuss and extra expense of sending it back to Hong Kong and risk not getting a new one sent back to me

Any advice would be appreciated thanks