A method and system is disclosed for regenerating a particulate filter for an exhaust system. A source of hydrocarbon is injected into the exhaust flow upstream of the filter. The injected hydrocarbon within the filter is caused to oxidize and a temperature within the filter to rise, the temperature rise being initiated at a downstream end of the filter. A temperature change at the filter is sensed in response to the oxidation of the hydrocarbon. The amount of hydrocarbon being injected into the filter is adjusted to increase the temperature within the filter above a defined threshold from the downstream end to an upstream end of the filter, the defined threshold temperature being sufficient to oxidize soot. An operational parameter indicative of the filter regeneration being complete is sensed, and further injection of the hydrocarbon into the exhaust flow is prevented in response to the sensed operational parameter.