Tunnel construction often encounters challenging geological conditions and is threatened by dislocation due to active faults. Although previous studies have primarily focused on normal, reverse, or stick-slip faults, relatively little attention has been given to strike-slip or creep-slip faults. Additionally, the failure mechanisms of fault-crossing tunnels under active fault dislocations remain insufficiently explored. To address this gap, this study investigates the strain response and deformation failure mechanisms of articulated tunnel structures subjected to strike-slip fault dislocations through indoor scale model experiments. The experimental device is independently designed and processed. According to the geological survey report, the surrounding rock is mainly composed of granite, granodiorite, etc. Similar materials are prepared by experiments on density, uniaxial compressive strength, shear strength, and cohesion. The tunnel model features a horseshoe-shaped cross-section with flexible articulated joints and shock absorption seams. During the experiments, two schemes with different segment lengths were set up, and the longitudinal and hoop strain were monitored using optical fiber sensors and the OSI-S high-precision distributed optical fiber sensing system. Deformation and cracking of the overlying surrounding rock during model box dislocation were measured using the digital image correlation system. A high-definition digital surveillance camera within the tunnel lining model captured the development of cracks and the deformation and failure process of the lining segments. The study examines the deformation and cracking behavior of the overlying soil layer and assesses measures to mitigate tunnel dislocation. The findings reveal that strain changes in the tunnel lining structure are predominantly concentrated within and near the fault fracture zone under strike-slip fault dislocation. The overall failure mode of the tunnel combines tension, compression, and shear. These results provide valuable theoretical insights and technical support for similar tunnel engineering projects.