04 ford explorer xls brake lights wont work

You've covered the basics and still have the problem. Check one more thing. Inside the driver's side rear back by the hatch, you should find the wiring harness that goes to the brake lights. do two things. First make sure that the connector has nor come loose. if it is OK, then pull it apart and check for voltage on the vehicle side of the connector when the brakes are depressed. If you have voltage there, then the problem is between there and the bulb sockets. If you don't show any voltage, the problem lies somewhere between the connector and the brake light fuse up front. Good luck.