Operation - Water Pump Bypass
WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2004 Dodge Dakota. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.
When the thermostat is in the closed position the bypass gallery is not obstructed allowing 100% flow.
When the thermostat is in the open position the pill partially covers the bypass hole, reducing the amount of bypass flow. This design allows the coolant to reach operating temperature quickly when cold, while adding extra cooling during normal temperature operation.