Um .... that isn't what I meant. For reference, the excellent documentary/educational film "Deliverance" may be viewed. Although filmed in Georgia, close enough for discussion purposes Yes, I'm referring to obvious inbreeding, human isolates, various birth defects, etc. I trust you've never had to "squeal like a pig?" Move at once. Today if possible! Yes, most vehicles with spin-on oil filters can take a wide variety of oil filters. Not sure what advantage there is to using a different filter, perhaps cost savings or perceived better filtering Of course, with the 2010 Prius and Corolla, you need a cartridge filter. This appears to be Toyota-only, at the moment
Just to add about Fram filters. I've been using fram on my '92 camry since I took delivery of it 17 years ago. 17 years later, the car still runs fantastic.
In most states, you cannot pass smog with the engine check light on so I'd say your friend was limited at most to 2 years of this.
I bought a box of ten of the taller filters from a mail order Toyota dealer. Shipped was a little over $30, so about $3 / filter. I don't use Fram anymore. I had used one on my SC400 in a pinch a few years ago. The rubber check valve wasn't sealing which resulted in the engine oil draining back into the oil pan slowly over a day or so. If left unstarted for more than a day, the valve train made a horrible clattering sound. Finally figured out it was the filter. Replaced it wih a Toyota filter. Problem hasn't been back.