I loved Motel Sakura and would highly recommend it!
A big plus when I booked was the reasonable cost and free parking (with continuous access to your car). It turned out the parking (and hotel) was behind a security gate, which opened to let cars in and out (at least until 11pm, after which I think you may have to call to get in). If on foot, there was a side gate opened by room key card. The location, while not fancy, has excellent access to freeways, and was under 20-mins from both downtown LA and my friends in Altadena. It was also a 2-min walk from a Ralph's grocery store, which was very useful. The room and bathroom were both *huge* and everything was very comfortable. There was also a vending machine with stuff I remember from a visit to Japan :-)
I'm *very* noise-sensitive, and yes the A/C units (which worked great) were a bit noisier than at a 4-star hotel, and I could hear them on in other rooms when I had mine off, but my ear plugs nicely blocked the noise. Overall, the room was very quiet and I slept very well.
I'd read in other reviews how lovely the people are who run Motel Sakura, and I definitely experienced this myself. E.g. I prefer top floor rooms but checked in too late, so I asked to change rooms if one became available, and they found one and offered to move my cases for me the next day while I was out. It really makes a difference when people are genuinely friendly, smile at you, and are happy to help, all while respecting your privacy. Wonderful stay!