I'm looking for an inexpensive, clean hotel near LAX for a quick one-night stay. Must have shuttle service to/from airport & car rental. Anyone have any experience with Comfort Inn & Suites LAX or Travelodge Hotel at LAX?

Go to the LAX website.....and they list the nearby hotels and distances from the airport.
The Crown Plaza has really good rates.

I stated at the comfort Inn and Suites about a year ago. It is clean enough, not a bad place. If all you are looking for is a hotel near the airport, you should just check out orbitz. When you search, make sure you search for hotels near the airport. They will list a ton and you can pick which ever one suits your needs. (they have a brief description) I know you were probably looking for a first hand hotel recomendation. but this will probably help you make a more informed decision anyway

You might try bidding on priceline.com. You need to read biddingfortravel.com first to get an idea on what to bid. We bid $50 and got the 4 * westin at Lax and it was quite nice. Had free shuttle service to airport, as most of those hotels have. You could try bidding on a 3* and probably be quite happy too.

The Travelodge that's around 5400 Century Bl is fine. Don't stay anywhere east of that address (lowered numbered).
Hacienda Hotel is also okay & cheap.