Steering wheel columns have several different moving parts that all work together to help you drive your Volvo S80. When the steering column begins to lock, it could be for one of several reasons.
A wheel lock is engaged when the car is in park and turned off and the steering wheel is turned a slight amount to the left or right. It prevents car thieves from steering the car if they get it started.
When the steering wheel is rotated left and right to a significant degree, a valve in the power steering pump can cause the steering wheel to lock up.
Your car's ignition is a part of the overall steering column. If the rods connecting the steering wheel to the ignition have any type of debris in them, it can cause the steering wheel to improperly lock up.