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 time for the particulate filter (20); performing a calculation of a running average of time between regenerations of the particulate filter; calculating an end-of-service-life ratio of the particulate filter (20) dependent upon the maximum average time and the running average; determining a delta pressure adjustment factor to compensate for ash loading of the particulate filter (20) dependent upon the end-of-service-life ratio; and comparing the delta pressure adjustment factor to a predetermined maximum normalized delta pressure adjustment factor, if the delta pressure adjustment factor exceeds the predetermined maximum normalized delta pressure adjustment factor then indicating that at least one of service and replacement of the particulate filter (20) is needed due to ash loading.