Particulate filter ash loading prediction method and vehicle using the same

A particulate filter ash loading prediction method, including the steps of: determining a maximum average lifetime for the particulate filter (20); performing a calculation of a running average of time between regenerations of the particulate filter (20); calculating an end-of-service-life ratio of the particulate filter (20) dependent upon the maximum average lifetime and the running average; and comparing the end-of-service-life ratio to a predetermined end-of-service-life maximum ratio, if the end-of-service-life ratio is less than or equal to the end-of-service-life ratio maximum then indicating that at least one of service and replacement of the particulate filter (20) is needed due to ash loading.