A method and system for detecting a fault in a permanent magnet synchronous motor (PMSM), operably connected to a controller. The method includes receiving at a controller a stator voltages and currents for the PMSM, computing a negative sequence current and a negative sequence voltage for the PMSM; and determining if conditions are satisfied for monitoring for a fault of the PMSM. The method also includes ascertaining a change in the negative sequence current and a change in the negative sequence voltage for a selected time duration, calculating a ratio of the change in the negative sequence current and the negative sequence voltage corresponding to a negative sequence admittance for the PMSM, determining if the negative sequence admittance differs from a nominal value in excess of a threshold; and identifying the stator winding as faulted if the ratio exceeds the threshold.