A method is provided for predicting a loss of high-voltage isolation
within a hybrid, electric, or fuel cell vehicle. The method includes
recording the equivalent resistance between a vehicle chassis and a
high-voltage bus, detecting a trend in the measurements, and predicting
when the resistance will drop below a threshold value. The method also
includes issuing a warning or message to the owner/operator when the
predicted remaining number of events drops below a predetermined number
and/or when the resistance drops below the threshold. Additionally, an
apparatus is provided for predicting a high-voltage isolation fault
comprising a controller having an algorithm for predicting the fault, a
high-voltage bus and bus components, and a reporting device for reporting
the fault and/or predetermined number of remaining events. The controller
is configured to initiate the algorithm and record a series of equivalent
resistance measurements taken between the vehicle chassis and
high-voltage bus.