What number was the Fram? Volvos are supposed to use one witha 4 digit number PH 7830 or something like that. However, a PH16 (suitable for many Ford products and others) will thread right on, and seal properly, so they are sometimes used by those who don't know any better, (small independent shops unfamiliar with Volvos the most common culprit here) or have the Ford filter in stock and are too lazy to go and get the correct one. The PH 16 does not have an anti-drainback valve, which would allow it to partially empty itself while the engine is off.

In general though, Fram filters do not have a good reputation---they are cheaply made, and do not contain as large an area of filter media as most other brands.

I usually change my oil with the car on the ground---that way it is absolutely impossible for it to fall on me (unless one of the tires pops without warning) and I put a plastic bag over the motor mount to protect it from oil spillage.