Why must I shout for voice dialing?

I have my Samsung Galaxy S3 paired to the nav on my 2013 Leaf SV. Answering calls is easy. I just push the button on the steering wheel.

Voice dialing also works. I push the voice button on the wheel and give commands. But to get my commands heard correctly, I have to shout. It's like the microphone is not very sensitive. I found out that the microphone is in the same overhead block as the map lights and eyeglass case. Moving my head closer helps a little bit, but not enough. If I don't shout my command "CALL SMITH", I get a long list of possible commands, or no command at all. If I shout, it hears me correctly.

Yet, during a phone call, I can talk at a normal level and people hear me fine.

Do you have any advice?

Thanks!

Bob

The voice recognition on the Leaf is mediocre at best, more akin to a car of a decade ago... I've found it works best if you just use a natural voice with it but even then, I often have to repeat commands... Accent and voice quality also seems to have an impact on it.

Because it's fun!