driving from SM to LAX and airport traffic

Hi folks, happy new year. I am trying to figure out the best time to leave from LAX (other airports are not an option) and head home. My choices for times are either 10:30 am or noon. Assuming I want to get there about 2 1/2 hours early (I have to drop off a rental car), which departure time will have the least issues of morning rush hour?

Thanks very much,

Peter

driving from SM to LAX and airport traffic

Either time is fine. Rush hour does not apply to that route, which does not involve a freeway - you just drive down Lincoln, takes about 20-30 minutes from SM to LAX